PAPER B1

 

ISLE OF WIGHT COUNCIL DEVELOPMENT CONTROL COMMITTEE - TUESDAY 3 AUGUST 2004

REPORT OF THE HEAD OF PLANNING SERVICES

 

                                                                 WARNING

 

1.      THE RECOMMENDATIONS CONTAINED IN THIS REPORT OTHER THAN PART 1 SCHEDULE AND DECISIONS ARE DISCLOSED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY.

 

2.      THE RECOMMENDATIONS WILL BE CONSIDERED ON THE DATE INDICATED ABOVE IN THE FIRST INSTANCE.  (In some circumstances, consideration of an item may be deferred to a later meeting).

 

3.      THE RECOMMENDATIONS MAY OR MAY NOT BE ACCEPTED BY THE DEVELOPMENT CONTROL COMMITTEE AND MAY BE SUBJECT TO ALTERATION IN THE LIGHT OF FURTHER INFORMATION RECEIVED BY THE OFFICERS AND PRESENTED TO MEMBERS AT MEETINGS.

 

4.      YOU ARE ADVISED TO CHECK WITH THE DIRECTORATE OF ENVIRONMENT SERVICES (TEL: 821000) AS TO WHETHER OR NOT A DECISION HAS BEEN TAKEN ON ANY ITEM BEFORE YOU TAKE ANY ACTION ON ANY OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS CONTAINED IN THIS REPORT.

 

5.      THE COUNCIL CANNOT ACCEPT ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE CONSEQUENCES OF ANY ACTION TAKEN BY ANY PERSON ON ANY OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS.

 

 Background Papers

 

 The various documents, letters and other correspondence referred to in the Report in respect of each planning application or other item of business.

 

Members are advised that every application on this report has been considered  against a background of the implications of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 and, where necessary, consultations have taken place with the Crime and Disorder Facilitator and Architectural Liaison Officer.  Any responses received prior to publication are featured in the report under the heading Representations.

 

 Members are advised that every application on this report has been considered against a background of the implications of the Human Rights Act 1998 and, following advice from the Head of Legal and Democratic Services, in recognition of a duty to give reasons for a decision, each report will include a section explaining and giving a justification for the recommendation.

 

LIST OF PLANNING APPLICATIONS ON REPORT TO COMMITTEE –

24 AUGUST 2004

 

1

TCP/11733/C   P/00740/04

 

Land between 80 and 86, Fairfield Gardens, Sandown

 

Pair of semi-detached houses with integral garages; formation of vehicular access

Lake

Conditional Approval

2

TCP/17929/C   P/00907/04

 

Land adjoining Journeys End, Westlands, Totland Bay

 

Demolition of garage/utility room & shed; construction of detached house with integral garage; alterations to vehicular access, (revised scheme)

Totland

Conditional Approval

3

TCP/23408/C   P/00271/04

 

Land adjacent Woodland House, 28, Victoria Avenue, Shanklin

 

Detached house with garage; formation of vehicular access (Revised Plans)

Shanklin

Conditional Approval

 

 

 

LIST OF OTHER MATTERS NOT RELATING TO CURRENT PLANNING APPLICATIONS ON REPORT TO COMMITTEE – 24 AUGUST 2004

 

(a)        TCP/4720/R

Allegation of untidy land at 33 Orchard Road, Shanklin, IOW

 

(b)        E/2714/J

Dilapidated Condition of Café situated between Tarvic 2 Hotel and St Moritz Hotel, 13-15 Culver Parade, Sandown

 

 

 

 

 

1

TCP/11733/C   P/00740/04  Parish/Name: Lake  Ward: Lake North

Registration Date:  13/04/2004  -  Full Planning Permission

Officer:  Mr. C. Boulter           Tel:  (01983) 823575

Applicant:  K J McGuire

 

Pair of semi-detached houses with integral garages; formation of vehicular access

land between 80 and 86, Fairfield Gardens, Sandown, PO36

 

REASON FOR COMMITTEE CONSIDERATION

 

The report is requested by Local Member, Councillor Gardiner, as she is not prepared to agree to the application to be dealt with under delegation procedure due to the numerous concerns of local residents.

 

PROCESSING INFORMATION

 

This application if dealt with at this meeting will have taken 11 weeks to process, the delay principally due to the need to report the matter to the Development Control Committee.

 

LOCATION AND SITE CHARACTERISTICS

 

Fairfield Gardens comprises new residential linear development on either side of highway. Proposed plot is located on the western side of highway located between existing development to north and south.

 

RELEVANT HISTORY

 

None, in respect of this site. Various consents issued in respect of recent residential development along Fairfield Gardens.

 

DETAILS OF APPLICATION

 

Application seeks consent for construction of pair of semi-detached dwellings on this site which measures approximately 12.5 x 25m deep. Each property will comprise lounge, kitchen and integral garage at ground floor level with 3 bedrooms above.

 

Siting of buildings will be staggered to reflect existing building line within street and given fall of land across site dwellings would be set into ground to achieve stepped appearance in elevational terms.

 

DEVELOPMENT PLAN/POLICY

 

Site lies within designated development envelope for Sandown and therefore there is no objection in principle to residential development of this site. Main Unitary Development Plan Policies are considered to be as follows:

 

G1 –   Development Envelopes

D1 –   Standards of Design

H5 –   Infill Developments

TR7 – Highway Considerations for New Developments

 

CONSULTEE RESPONSES

 

Highway Engineer recommends conditions if approved.

 

PARISH/TOWN COUNCIL COMMENTS

 

Lake Parish Council objects to application on grounds of over development.

 

THIRD PARTY REPRESENTATIONS

 

Three letters have been received from local residents objecting to proposal on the following grounds:

 

i           Increased on street parking pressures.

ii         Implications for highway safety.

iii        Loss of trees.

iv       Increased overlooking and loss of privacy.

v         Potential loss of light.

 

CRIME AND DISORDER IMPLICATIONS

 

Relevant Officer has been given the opportunity to comment but no observations have been received. However, it is not anticipated that there will be any crime and disorder implications generated by this application.

 

EVALUATION

 

This proposal represents last potential infill between existing recent developments approved along both sides of Fairfield Gardens. Established street scene of modern dwellings comprising mixed detached and semi-detached units and proposed semi-detached pair will be of similar appearance to those recently constructed to north.

 

Scale of design, size and materials are considered appropriate for area and appearance within street scene is considered acceptable. Plot sizes of proposed dwellings are compatible with density of development in locality.

 

Whilst conifers along road frontage will be removed this will not compromise street scene which is suburban in character. In terms of impact on adjoining residents distance to dwelling at rear is substantial and no loss of amenity will result from this relationship. Whilst new dwelling projects some 2.5 metres behind rear wall of pair of houses to north and there will be some marginal loss of light to immediate neighbour this type of arrangement is repeated frequently in adjoining developments because of the alignment of access road and is not a sustainable reason for refusal.

 

Highway Engineer considers the proposal satisfactory from highways point of view providing the appropriate conditions are imposed. Proposal provides its own off street parking provision and therefore in the light of similar adjoining approvals, again I do not consider any sustainable reasons to refuse on highway grounds.

 

In conclusion, proposal make best use of development land, proposal is considered appropriate in terms of design and relationship with neighbours and raises no significant highway issues and is therefore recommended for approval.

 

HUMAN RIGHTS

 

In coming to this recommendation to grant planning permission consideration has been given to the rights set out in Article 8 (Right to Privacy) and Article 1 of the First Protocol (Right to Peaceful Enjoyment of Possessions) of the European Convention on Human Rights. The impacts this development might have on the owners/occupiers of other property in the area and other third parties have been carefully considered. Whilst there may be some interference with the rights of these people this has to be balanced with the rights of the applicant to develop the land in the manner proposed. Insofar as there is an interference with the rights of others it is considered necessary for the protection of the rights and freedom of the applicant. It is also considered that such action is proportional to the legitimate aim of the Council’s Unitary Development Plan and in the public interest.

 

JUSTIFICATION FOR RECOMMENDATION

 

Having given due regard and attached appropriate weight to the factors explained in the evaluation section above, I am of the opinion that the construction of a pair of dwellings on this site is acceptable in terms of principle scale mass and design complying with relevant UDP policies.

 

            RECOMMENDATION  -  APPROVAL

 

Conditions/Reasons:

 

1

Time limit - full   -   A10

2

No development shall take place until details of the materials and finishes to be used in the construction of the external surfaces of the development hereby permitted have been submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority. Development shall be carried out in accordance with the approved details.

 

Reason:  In the interests of the amenities of the area and to comply with policy D1 (Standards of Design) of the IW Unitary Development Plan.

3

Before the development hereby permitted is commenced, details of the width, construction and gradient of the vehicular access hereby approved shall be submitted to and approved by the Local Planning Authority.  

 

Reason: Reason:  To ensure adequate access to the proposed development and to comply with policy D1 (Standards of Design) of the IW Unitary Development Plan.

4

No dwelling hereby permitted shall be occupied until space has been laid out within the site for a maximum of 4 cars/bicycles to be parked and for vehicles to turn so that they may enter and leave the site in forward gear. The space shall not thereafter be used for any purpose other than that approved in accordance with this condition.

 

Reason:  In the interests of highway safety and to comply with policy TR7 (Highway Considerations) of the IW Unitary Development Plan.

5

Withdrawn PD right for windows/dormers   -   R03

 

 

 

 

2

TCP/17929/C   P/00907/04  Parish/Name: Totland  Ward: Totland

Registration Date:  01/06/2004  -  Full Planning Permission

Officer:  Miss. S. Gooch           Tel:  (01983) 823568

Applicant:  Mr J A Blamire

 

Demolition of garage/utility room & shed;  construction of detached house with integral garage;  alterations to vehicular access, (revised scheme)

land adjoining Journeys End, Westlands, Totland Bay, PO39

 

REASON FOR COMMITTEE CONSIDERATION

 

Local Member, Councillor John Howe, is unable to deal with this application under delegated procedure as he has an association with the applicants.

 

PROCESSING INFORMATION

 

This is a minor application, the processing of which has taken 17 weeks to date. The processing of this application has gone beyond the prescribed 8 week period for determination of planning application due to requests from local Members for Committee consideration and Case Officer work load.

 

LOCATION AND SITE CHARACTERISTICS

 

Application relates to a building plot, sited north of Journeys End situated on the eastern side of Westlands approximately 60 metres north of its junction with The Avenue, Freshwater. Westlands is a part made up roadway, but appears to be un-adopted. Site is presently occupied by a detached shed, which is painted render under a profiled sheet roof and a garage/utility room which is attached to Journeys End. Journeys End, which is sited to the south of the application site, is a two storey semi detached property with gable features and to the north is Green Close which is a detached bungalow with a conservatory on the southern elevation, A 1.8 larch lap fence to divides the two properties.

 

RELEVANT HISTORY

 

TCP/17929/C – Consent sought to demolish existing garage/utility room and shed; construction of detached house with integral garage; alterations to vehicular access – refused March 2004 under delegated procedure. Reasons for refusal was, proposed dwelling by reason of its size and position, would represent an over development of the site which in turn create conditions likely to give rise to overlook and be of an overbearing nature to the detriment of the amenities of neighbouring properties and prospective occupants as well as being out of character with the prevailing pattern of development in the surrounding area and proposal providing insufficient parking provision.

 

DETAILS OF APPLICATION

 

Following a previous refusal on 25 March 2004 a revised application has been received which has now reduced the width by 500 mm which in turn has provided a distance of 900mm from the boundary on the southern side of the site and notwithstanding previous refusal Highways are no longer objecting to this proposal. Consent is sought for a detached two storey modern design property under a hipped roof with an integral garage. Proposal will comprise of a bedroom and en suite and two further bedrooms, a bathroom, study and on the lower floor diner/kitchen, lounge, utility as well as the garage. Proposal incorporates a two storey gable feature which is of similar design to that of 1 and 2 Westlands.

 

DEVELOPMENT PLAN/POLICY

 

The site is located within development boundary of the Unitary Development Plan.

 

Relevant policies of the Plan are considered to be as follows:

 

S1        New development will be concentrated within existing area.

S6        All development will be expected to be of a high standard of design

S7        There is a need to provide the development of at least 8,000 housing units over the planned period. While a large proportion of this development will occur on sites with existing allocations or planning approvals, or on currently unidentified sites, enough new land will be allocated to enable this target to be met and to provide a range of choice and affordability.

G1       Development envelopes for towns and villages

G4       General locational criteria for development

D1        Standards of Design

D2        Standards for Development within the site

H5        Infill Development

TR7     Highway considerations for new developments

TR16   Parking Policies and Guidelines

 

CONSULTEE RESPONSES

 

Highways Engineer has advised that Westlands is as un-adopted un-surfaced road which is in a poor state of repair and although they would resist any large scale development one further dwelling would have negligible effect upon the road surface. They advise that parking provision falls within the Unitary Development Policy Parking Guidelines and therefore raise no objection as two additional vehicles can be parked in front of garage (or one if parking in lay by style).

 

PARISH/TOWN COUNCIL COMMENTS

 

Totland Parish Council believes that the small reduction in the size of the proposed property does not alter the reasons given for the previous refusal of the planning permission. They oppose this proposal as they consider it over development and likely to cause overlooking.

 

THIRD PARTY REPRESENTATIONS

 

Three letters were received objecting to the application on the grounds that the proposal is:

 

·         over development

·         will create overlook and lack of privacy

·         an established badger run would be blocked or destroyed

·         as it is a private road with limited access another dwelling would make it almost impossible to park.

 

CRIME & DISORDER IMPLICATIONS

 

No comments have been received however, no crime and disorder implications are anticipated.

 

EVALUATION

 

Determining factors in considering this application are whether development of the site for residential purposes is acceptable in principal and whether the site is of adequate size to accommodate development compatible with the surrounding area without loss of amenity to neighbouring property and highway considerations.

 

Site is located within the development boundary and the proposal is therefore considered acceptable in principal. I am satisfied that the size of the site is of adequate size to accommodate development compatible with the surrounding without detracting from the amenities of the area or of neighbouring properties. As Westlands exhibits a sufficient mixture of properties situated within plots of varying sizes I am of the opinion that the proposal would not be out of keeping with the general pattern of the development in the area.

 

With regard to impact on neighbouring privacy, the first floor accommodation will have some impact on neighbour amenity but due to the distance involved, and taking into account the property to the south already has an opening first floor window, I am of the opinion that this is not sufficiently serious to sustain a refusal.

 

Rear elevation displays French doors to bedroom and after discussions with the applicant it is confirmed that guard railings are intended to be introduced.

 

Concerning parking issues, consultations with the Highways Department have resulted in a recommendation for approval as two additional vehicles could be parked in front of the garage, although they would protrude out into the road. Alternatively, one vehicle could park lay-by style in front of the garage. Site lies within Zone 3 of the Parking Guidelines and I am therefore of the view that approval of this development, even if it had no parking, would accord with zonal parking policy of the IW Unitary Development Plan.

 

Issues relating to the established badger run at the rear of the site have been investigated and after liaising with Ecology Officer he advises that badger runs are not protected and that there is a good distance from the proposed dwelling in relation to the rear of the site.

 

I am therefore of the opinion that proposal has overcome the reasons for refusal of the previous application.

 

HUMAN RIGHTS

 

In coming to this recommendation to grant planning permission consideration has been given to the rights set out in Article 8 (Right to Privacy) and Article 1 of the First Protocol (Right to Peaceful Enjoyment of Possessions) of the European Convention on Human Rights. The impacts this development might have on the owners/occupiers of other property in the area and other third parties have been carefully considered. Whilst there may be some interference with the rights of these people this has to be balanced with the rights of the applicant to develop the land in the manner proposed. Insofar as there is an interference with the rights of others it is considered necessary for the protection of the rights and freedom of the applicant. It is also considered that such action is proportional to the legitimate aim of the Council’s Unitary Development Plan and in the public interest.

 

JUSTIFICATION FOR RECOMMENDATION

 

Having given due regard and appropriate weight to all material considerations referred to in this report, I am satisfied that the proposal to develop this site with a detached house would make efficient use of land without having excessive or unacceptable impact on the environment or neighouring property, and would not detract from the visual amenities and character of the locality. In view of the above proposal is considered to satisfy policies of the Isle of Wight Unitary Development Plan.

 

            RECOMMENDATION - APPROVAL

 

Conditions/Reasons:

 

1

Time limit - full   -   A10

2

No development shall take place until details of the materials and finishes to be used in the construction of the external surfaces of the development hereby permitted have been submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority.  Development shall be carried out in accordance with the approved details.

 

Reason:  In the interests of the amenities of the area and to comply with policy D1 (Standards of Design) of the IW Unitary Development Plan.

3

No development shall take place until details have been submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority of the positions, design, materials and type of boundary treatment to be erected.  The boundary treatment shall be completed before the building hereby permitted is occupied. Development shall be carried out in accordance with the approved details.

 

Reason:  In the interests of maintaining the amenity value of the area and to comply with policy D1 (Standards of Design) of the IW Unitary Development Plan.

4

Notwithstanding the provisions of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 1995 (or any Order revoking and re-enacting that Order, with or without modification), no windows/dormer windows (other than those expressly authorised by this permission) shall be constructed. Unless otherwise agreed in writing by the Local Planning Authority.

 

Reason:  In the interests of the character and amenities of the area and to comply with policy D1 (Standards of Design) of the IW Unitary Development Plan.

5

Notwithstanding the provisions of any Town & Country Planning General Permitted Development Order, no part of any boundary wall or fence erected on the site frontage, nor any hedge planted to make the boundary alongside any such boundary, wall or fence, shall at any time be permitted to be more than 1 metre above the level of the carriageway and the resultant visibility splays shall be kept free of obstruction.

 

Reason: In the interests of highway safety and to comply with Policy TR7 (Highway Considerations for new developments) of the IW Unitary Development Plan.

 

 

 

 

3

TCP/23408/C   P/00271/04  Parish/Name: Shanklin  Ward: Shanklin South

Registration Date:  16/02/2004  -  Full Planning Permission

Officer:  Mr. P. Stack           Tel:  (01983) 823575

Applicant:  Mr & Mrs G Davis

 

Detached house with garage; formation of vehicular access (Revised Plans)

land adjacent Woodland House, 28, Victoria Avenue, Shanklin, PO37

 

REASON FOR COMMITTEE CONSIDERATION

 

Local Member was not prepared for matter to be dealt with under delegated procedure as application had proved particularly contentious and had attracted a number of planning based representations. Applicant has subsequently exercised right of appeal in respect of non-determination and application is now before Members to allow opportunity to consider case and indicate their likely decision.

 

PROCESSING INFORMATION

 

The application has taken 27 weeks if it is determined at this Committee.

 

LOCATION & SITE CHARACTERISTICS

 

Application relates to irregularly shaped plot of land which forms part of larger wooded area situated on southern side of Victoria Avenue to rear of residential properties fronting both Victoria Avenue and Highfield Road.

 

RELEVANT HISTORY

 

None.

 

DETAILS OF APPLICATION

 

Application seeks full detailed consent for construction of dwelling with vehicular access from Victoria Avenue together with extension of culvert.

 

Due to fall across site detailed plans show split level 2/3 storey dwelling comprising garage, bedroom and laundry room at ground floor, lounge dining area and kitchen above with three bedrooms on top floor. Building will be finished in red bricks with some render and timber features underneath tiled roof.

 

Access to site will be gained via construction of internal access way and access onto Victoria Avenue.

 

In terms of the culvert works it is proposed to carry out repairs and concrete into position a new pre-cast chamber ring and construct new retaining wall which will extend from top of ring along stream for a distance of 5 metres. In terms of drainage it is intended to lay a land drain along access road on off stream side, this drain picking up incoming land drains around site avoiding multiple drain accesses to stream.

 

DEVELOPMENT PLAN/POLICY

 

S1 – New development to be concentrates within existing urban areas

 

G1 – Development envelopes

 

G4 – General locational criteria

 

D1 – Standards of design

 

D2 – Standards for development within the site

 

H5 – Infill development

 

C12 – Development affecting trees and woodland

 

C8 – Nature conservation as a material consideration

 

G6 – Areas liable to flooding

 

TR7 – Highway considerations for new development

 

TR16 – Parking policies and guidelines.

 

            PPG14 – Development on unstable land.

 

CONSULTEE RESPONSES

 

Following submission of revised plans Highway Engineer has withdrawn previous objections and recommends conditions should consent be granted.

 

Environment Agency originally lodged a holding objection but in light of additional information received regarding proposed culvert has no objection and suggests new planting is restricted to boundary adjacent access road.

 

National Air Traffic Services has no safeguarding objections.

 

PARISH/TOWN COUNCIL COMMENTS

 

Shanklin Town Council raised no comments in respect of this application.

 

THIRD PARTY REPRESENTATIONS

 

Eight individual letters have been received from local residents objecting to proposed development on following grounds:

 

·                     Setting a precedent for possible future development on adjoining land

·                     Loss of trees

·                     Potential instability of land

·                     Proposed design of house out of character with locality

·                     Adverse impacts on wildlife

·                     Loss of privacy and increased overlooking

·                     Increased noise particularly from use of new access way

·                     Loss of woodland

·                     Potential for increased flooding.

 

Petition also received with 13 signatories raising similar objections to those summarised above.

 

Local Town Councillor has expressed interest in this application.

 

Letters have also been received from the residents of Woodlands House and copy correspondence received from the Victoria Avenue, Highfield Road and Westhill Manor residents association. The latter group objecting on grounds identified in earlier section of this report.

 

CRIME & DISORDER IMPLICATIONS

 

None at time of writing report, the relevant officer has been given the opportunity to comment.

 

EVALUATION

 

Main planning considerations are firstly development plan policy, secondly how development may affect character and appearance of area and neighbouring properties in particular, highway, nature conservation, potential flooding and land stability considerations.

 

Application site lies within development envelope and therefore there is no objection in principle to redevelopment of this site subject to more detailed issues.

 

In terms of amenity impacts dwelling proposed at rear of properties fronting Victoria Avenue, particularly flats in Woodlands House have windows and balconies looking northwards towards site. Proposed dwelling would have windows and glass enclosed balcony facing south at a minimum distance of 21 metres from flats. These windows would serve garage at ground floor level and will be behind glass enclosed balconies serving kitchen and dining area at first floor and bedroom and bathroom on second floor. Access road is at its nearest some 12 metres from side wall of Woodlands House flats and it is considered that distances involved are sufficient to maintain reasonable levels of privacy to both properties and that relationship with neighbours is acceptable and compliant with policies.

 

Building is of unusual design with red brick to lower floor rendered panels and significant areas of glass to upper two floors. Site reads on its own in an area of woodland and design is considered acceptable given unique characteristics of this site.

 

With regards to impact on trees Council’s Tree Officer has not identified any issues with removal of trees and removals undertaken so far have not breached TPO regulations. Furthermore there are no anticipated adverse effects on nearby trees and therefore proposal is considered compliant with Policy C12.

 

Council’s Ecology Officer has identified important wildlife habitats in area and suggests a woodland management plan may be appropriate. However the area which would benefit from such management lies outside the application site and the area identified in the application as within the applicant’s control. Therefore such a plan would not be justifiable and he suggests any new planting should be of a native species. No direct objection has been raised on nature conservation grounds and therefore proposal is considered to be in accordance with Policy C8.

 

The Council's Land Drainage Technical Engineer has inspected the site and assessed the additional culverting works and following discussions between the applicant and the Environment Agency and submission of revised plans Agency has removed its original holding objection and likewise with highway issues revised plans illustrating improved access have been received and have allowed Council’s Highway Engineer to withdraw his original objections.

 

Regarding ground stability, PPG14 confirms that final responsibility for safe development lies with developer but Local Planning Authority should assure itself as far as possible that development could take place without affecting nearby land and buildings or site itself. In this case question has been raised regarding potential affect on stability of dwellings on higher ground to north if development goes ahead. Applicant has provided letter from Civil Engineer indicating that providing appropriate foundations are used no adverse loading regime will be imposed on adjoining property. Foundation design is controlled by Building Regulations and I am therefore satisfied that Local Authority’s responsibilities under PPG14 have been addressed and that the proposal is compliant with Policy G7.

 

Regarding precedent, application must be determined on its own merits within context of policies of Unitary Development Plan. Any future applications in area will be determined on the same principle and subject to same policy considerations.

 

HUMAN RIGHTS

 

In coming to this recommendation to grant planning permission, consideration has been given to the rights set out in Article 8 (Right to Privacy) and Article 1 of the First Protocol (Right to Peaceful Enjoyment of Possessions) of the European Convention on Human Rights. The impacts this development might have on the owners/occupiers of the other property in the area and other third parties have been carefully considered. Whilst there may be some interference with the rights of these people this has to be balanced with the right of the applicant to develop the land in the manner proposed. Insofar as there is an interference with the rights of others it is considered necessary for the protection of the rights and freedom of the applicant. It is also considered that such action is proportional to the legitimate aim and in the public interest.

 

JUSTIFICATION FOR RECOMMENDATION

 

Having given due regard and appropriate weight to all material considerations referred to in this report I am satisfied the proposal represents an acceptable form of development with technical objections being overcome by negotiation and submission of revised plans. I am satisfied that the proposal will not detract from character of locality or amenities of neighbouring properties and accordingly the application is recommended for approval.

 

            RECOMMENDATION -            If the Development Control Committee were in a 

                                                            position to determine the application, the

                                                            recommendation would be APPROVAL subject to

                                                            the following conditions:

 

Conditions/Reasons:

 

1

Time limit - full   -   A10

2

No development shall take place until details of the materials and finishes, to be used in the construction of the external surfaces of the development hereby permitted have been submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority.  Development shall be carried out in accordance with the approved details.

 

Reason:  In the interests of the amenities of the area and to comply with policy D1 (Standards of Design) of the IW Unitary Development Plan.

3

Details of soft landscaping   -   M11

4

Notwithstanding the provisions of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 1995 (or any Order revoking and re-enacting that Order with or without modification), no gates shall be erected without the prior written consent of the Local Planning Authority.

 

Reason:  In the interests of highway safety and to comply with policy TR7 (Highway Considerations) of the IW Unitary Development Plan.

5

Before the development hereby permitted is commenced details of the width, construction and gradient of the access hereby approved shall be submitted to and approved by the Local Planning Authority.

 

Reason: In the interests of highway safety and to comply with Policy TR7 (Highway Considerations) of the Isle of Wight Unitary Development Plan.

6

The gradient of the access shall be a maximum of 1:20 over the first 5 metres measured from the edge of carriageway, with the balance not to exceed 1:8 in accordance with a scheme to be agreed with the Local Planning Authority.

 

Reason: In the interests of highway safety and to comply with policy TR7 (Highway Considerations) of the IW Unitary Development Plan.

7

The existing watercourse running across the north western part of the site shall be culverted in accordance with the details attached to and forming part of this decision notice, prior to the occupation of the dwelling hereby approved.

 

Reason: In the interests of highway safety and to comply with policy TR7 (Highway Considerations) of the IW Unitary Development Plan.

 

 

 

 

LIST OF OTHER MATTERS NOT RELATING TO CURRENT PLANNING APPLICATIONS ON REPORT TO COMMITTEE    24 AUGUST 2004

 

 

(a)        TCP/4720/R

Allegation of untidy land at 33 Orchard Road, Shanklin, IOW

 

 

Officer: Mr S Cornwell

Tel: 01983 823592

 

 

 

Summary

 

To consider whether the condition of land at the above address justifies the service of a Notice under Section 215 of the Town and Country Planning Act requiring clearance of weeds, brambles and trees from the land, repairs to garden wall and replacement of broken windows because of their adverse effect on the amenities of the area.

 

Background

 

Members may recall this site which has been the subject of previous attention by Officers and Members and on that basis it would be appropriate to briefly reappraise the history relating to this site.

 

In August 2001 a complaint was received alleging that land at the above address was overgrown with weeds, brambles and trees. An enforcement officer visited the site and noted that the property is a detached bungalow situated in a quiet residential road. The surrounding properties have been well maintained and cared for. The garden area, in particular the front garden, was completely overgrown and access to the front door of the property (which was vacant) was difficult and there was also evidence to suggest that the vegetation had caught fire at some stage.

 

At the 27 November 2001 Development Control Committee Meeting, Members considered a report and it was resolved to serve a notice under Section 215 requiring the condition of the garden area to be remedied within two months.

 

A Notice was served in April 2002 and an appeal was lodged in the Magistrates Court in June 2002. At that time, it was indicated that the matter could be resolved and on that basis the Magistrates deferred the case for three weeks. The matter returned back to Court on 28 June when it was reported that no resolution had been made but it was indicated that work could be done within six weeks and on that basis the Magistrates set a date for a formal Hearing of 15 August 2002.

 

The Appeal against the Notice was withdrawn by letter on 10 July 2002 at which time it was indicated that the necessary works would be carried out within a matters of weeks. Some work was undertaken to the condition of the garden in the autumn of 2002 and further works in the spring of 2003. In June 2003 a further assessment of the site was undertaken by officers. Whilst it was not felt that the full requirements of the Notice had been complied with it was not considered on balance that the Local Planning Authority could move forward to a prosecution with a degree of certainty that this would be successful. On that basis no further action was proposed at that time.

 

Members may also recall visiting this site at the request of a Member of the Development Control Committee on Friday 9 January 2004 as part of the Development Control Committee Site Inspections Meeting. Based on that visit, Officers were not instructed to initiate further action although there was a request to monitor the site.

 

On 5 August 2004 a further visit was undertaken at which time it was noted that the vegetation has continued to grow without being cut back in anyway. Furthermore, sections of the front garden wall, which also acts as a retaining wall, have fallen away and it was also noted that two of the windows in the front of the property had been broken.

 

Section 215 of the 1990 Act empowers the Local Planning Authority to serve a Notice on the owner and occupier of land if it appears to the Authority that the amenities of an area are “adversely affected by the condition of land in their area.”

 

Financial Implications

 

Whilst there are no financial implications regarding the action of serving the notice under Section 215, based on experience gained from the last action, the Council may consider it more appropriate to initiate direct action should there be a failure to comply with the requirements of the notice rather than expend resources in the Magistrates Court. The sum involved would not be significant. Members should note that this decision will not preclude dealing with the Court, should the recipient exercise his right to appeal.

 

Options

 

1.      To take no action regarding the overgrown nature of the garden, the failure of the garden wall and the broken windows.

 

2.      To serve a Notice under Section 215 of the Town & Country Planning Act 1990, requiring:

 

a.      The removal of the weeds, brambles and self seeded trees.

b.      The repair of the front garden retaining wall

c.       The repair of the broken windows

 

Time period for compliance two months after the Notice takes effect.

 

Conclusion

 

The previous action taken by the Local Planning Authority with regard to the condition of this property was drawn out through no fault of the Local Planning Authority and only resulted in partial compliance. Whilst the measures undertaken were not all that the Authority had wished to see, it was considered that the remaining condition of the garden was not so poor that the Authority could proceed with confidence towards further action in the Courts.

 

No further work has been undertaken on the garden area and indeed the rest of the property has deteriorated with the partial collapse of the front garden wall and the broken windows. Under these circumstances I consider that further action based on Section 215 would be appropriate.

 

Based on previous experience I should advise Members that it would not be my intention to initiate a prosecution in the event that the notice is not complied with, but to expend any resources on direct action with a subsequent charge then imposed on the property. Members should note however, that the right of appeal against the notice is through the Magistrates Court.

 

Human Rights

 

In coming to this conclusion, consideration has been given to the rights as set out in Article 8 (Right to Privacy) and Article 1 of the First Protocol (Right to peaceful enjoyment of possessions) of the European Convention on Human Rights. Whilst it is accepted that the recommendation to take action under Section 215 of the Town & Country Planning Act 1990, may interfere with the rights and freedoms of the landowner, this has to be balanced with the rights and freedoms of others. Insofar as there is an interference with the rights of the landowner, the proposed action is considered necessary and proportionate for the protection of rights and freedoms of the wider community.

 

 

Recommendation

 

Option 2

 

To serve a Notice under Section 215 of the Town & Country Planning Act 1990 requiring:

 

a) The removal of the weeds, brambles and self seeded trees.

b) The repair of the front garden retaining wall.

c) The repair of the broken windows.

 

Time period for compliance, 2 months after the Notice takes effect.

 

 

 

 

 

OTHER MATTERS NOT RELATING TO CURRENT PLANNING APPLICATIONS ON REPORT TO COMMITTEE    24 AUGUST 2004

 

(b)        E/2714/J

Dilapidated Condition of Café situated between Tarvic 2 Hotel and St Moritz Hotel, 13-15 Culver Parade, Sandown

 

 

Officer: Mr L Harper

Tel: 01983 823569

 

 

Summary

 

To consider the service of a Notice under Section 215 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 requiring the Owner of the café to remedy the condition of the building by repainting the external wooden surfaces and to clear the forecourt.

 

Background

 

In March 2004 a report was received by the Enforcement Section concerning the dilapidated condition of the café owned by Tarvic 2 Hotel 13–15 Culver Parade, Sandown. The Area Enforcement Officer visited the site and photographed the forecourt and front of the café. The café has been closed for a number of years and the building has not been maintained. The property owner was informed by letter that the condition of the front elevation of the café and the forecourt adversely impacted on the amenity of the area and to avoid the service of a Section 215 Notice he should repaint the front elevation and tidy up the forecourt.

 

The owner responded by telephone and a further letter was forwarded to him detailing the steps required for remedying the condition of the café and forecourt within a timeframe of twenty-eight days. The owner was further informed that failure to remedy the condition of the café and forecourt within the requested timeframe would result in a report to the Development Control Committee where Members would be asked to authorise the service of a formal notice to achieve the desired outcome.

 

The owner informed the Enforcement Officer verbally that there were a number of planning consents to redevelop the main hotel Tarvic 2 Hotel and that he will undertake upgrading the frontage of the café at the same time as the works on the main building. The owner has however failed to provide a timeframe for implementing the planning consents. A further site visit was undertaken and it was observed that the condition remained unchanged.  The owner was informed that the matter would be reported to the Development Control Committee without further communication. The owner responded disputing the steps required to undertake the remedial works and he was informed that the matter would be reported to the Development Control Committee.

 

Financial Implications

 

There are no financial implications unless the Local Planning Authority proposes to remedy the condition of the property by undertaking direct action.

 

Options

 

  1. To note the contents of the report and require the owner to undertake the following steps for remedying the condition of the land:-

 

a)      Prior to repainting, clean and prepare all external  timber services inclusive of walls, windows  frames, entrance door and signage on the front elevation, removing in the process any flaking paint and replacing any rotten timbers to ensure that all external wooden surfaces are in an appropriate condition for repainting.

b)      Repaint all external wooden surfaces. Wall in the finished colour of magnolia external paint. Window frames, doors and signage in a neutral external primer, undercoat and finished colour to be white gloss.

 

Time period for compliance – 28 days

 

  1. To note the contents of the report and to take no further action until completion of the redevelopment works to Tarvic2 Hotel.

 

Conclusion

 

The café is located on Culver Way, on the sea front in tourist area of Sandown. The dilapidated condition and appearance of the café and the untidy forecourt has an adverse impact on the amenity and detracts from the general appearance of the immediate area.  The steps necessary to ameliorate the adverse condition and appearance of the café and forecourt conforms to the requirements of Section 215 of the Town and Country Planning Act that empowers the Local Planning Authority to take the necessary steps to tidy lands that adversely affects the condition of land within the general area.

 

The owner has indicated that the building will be painted within the next few weeks. Members will be updated on the latest position at the meeting.

 

Human Rights

 

In coming to this conclusion, consideration has been given to the rights and set out in Article 8 (Right to Privacy) and Article 1 of the First Protocol (Right to Peaceful Enjoyment of Processions) of the European Convention on Human Rights. Whilst it is accepted that the recommendation to take action under Section 215 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 may interfere with the rights and freedoms of the landowner, this has to be balanced with the rights and freedoms of others. Insofar as there is an interference with the rights of the landowner the proposed action is considered necessary and proportionate for the protection of the rights and freedoms of the wider community.

 

 

Recommendation

 

Option 1

 

(a). Prior to repainting, clean and prepare all external  timber services inclusive of walls, windows  frames, entrance door and signage on the front elevation, removing in the process any flaking paint and replacing any rotten timbers to ensure that all external wooden surfaces are in an appropriate condition for repainting.

 

(b). repaint all external wooden surfaces. Wall in the finished colour of magnolia external paint. Window frames, doors and signage in a neutral external primer, undercoat and finished colour to be white gloss.

  

Time period for compliance – 28 days

 

 

 

ANDREW ASHCROFT

Head of Planning Services