Issue - meetings

The Committee considered an application for the proposed variation to the internal layout at basement and ground floor levels and internal changes at first, second and third floor level to create 3 additional studio flats in connection with PLAN/2017/0070 (prior notification for a proposed change of use of offices (B1) to dwelling (C3) – conversion of the upper floors to provide 15 apartments (12 x studios and 3 x One-bedroom flats)).

The Planning Officer emphasised that the only matters before the Committee were the internal variations to the basement and ground floor layouts of the office and retail units at Regent House, together with internal changes at first, second and third floor levels to accommodate three additional studio flats. Prior approval for the creation of fifteen apartments had already been given, so was not for the Committee to consider.

Councillor Lyons expressed concerns about the development, but accepted that the Committee could do nothing about what had received prior approval. His remaining concern was that no additional parking was being proposed for the three additional units. He proposed and it was duly seconded by Councillor Morales that the application be refused on the basis that there was insufficient car parking.

The Planning Officer advised the Committee that (i) the Highway Authority had raised no concerns about the level of car parking, (ii) the application site was in a very accessible town centre location and (iii) the application site was within the CPZ, so the proposed development would not contribute to parking congestion.

Councillor Ashall commented that the Committee needed to be satisfied that any refusal of the application was on grounds which could be supported.

The Development Manager emphasised the position as explained by the Planning Officer. He did not consider that a refusal would be supported on appeal.

Councillor Morales stated that she was no longer seconding the proposal to refuse the application, following which Councillor Lyons withdrew his proposal to refuse it.

In accordance with Standing Order 22.2, the Chairman deemed that a division should be taken on the motion, before the Committee, to approve the application. The votes for and against approval of the application were recorded as follows:-

In favour:                                 Cllrs S Ashall, A Boote, G W Elson, N Martin and S Hussain.

                                                TOTAL: 5

Against:                                   Cllrs T Aziz and L S Lyons.

                                                TOTAL: 2

Present but not voting:            Cllrs G G Chrystie (Chairman) and L M N Morales.

                                                TOTAL: 2

The application was therefore approved.

RESOLVED

That planning permission be granted subject to the conditions and legal agreement set out in the report.