Issue - meetings

To consider the report of the Head of Planning Services.

(Report circulated)

Councillor Choules declared a personal interest as he lives in the vicinity.

The Head of Planning Services presented the application for redevelopment to provide 10 dwellings and garages, parking, access to highway and associated works at 4-6 Countess Wear Road.

This site already had planning approval for 10 dwellings in 2 terraces of 5, and this application was for the provision of dormer windows to replace rooflights in the rear of the properties to serve a bedroom.

21 representations had been received but only 2 of these related to the overlooking and visual impact of the proposed dormer windows.

Members’ attention was drawn to the fact that the submitted drawings included 2 roof lights on the rear of each property in addition to the dormer windows. These roof lights would serve a landing and en-suite to one of the top floor rooms. These roof lights were considered visually acceptable and would not lead to any significant overlooking of adjoining properties.

A further letter of objection had been received referring to the implications of the development in terms of additional pressure on existing on-street parking facilities, particularly in terms of impact on the continued functioning of the Church.

The recommendation was for approval subject to conditions.

Councillor Sheldon having given notice under Standing Order no. 44 spoke on this item. He raised the following points:-

• was representing local residents
• the plans on the internet of the previous approval were not correct as they gave the impression that the level of parking would be greater
• the proposed dormer windows would cause overlooking
• the developer was not adhering to the “hours of construction” condition and was starting at 7.30am.

Mr Daurge spoke in opposition to the application. He raised the following points:-

• 500 residents were affected by this development
• the issues were the dormer windows, the design and the effect the development would have on on-road parking in the area
• there were changes to the parking and Devon County Council had not been consulted
• the dormer windows would cause overlooking to the gardens and living accommodation to the properties to the rear
• there was a lack of retaining structure on the boundary which was causing water to cascade down on the properties in Mill Road
• the original scheme was for 5 bungalows
• this proposal was considerably higher than the surrounding development.

Mr Turner (agent) spoke in support of this application. He raised the following points:-

• representing the developer
• had to make a new application although the only amendment to the proposal was for the dormer windows in the rear and the 2 rooflights
• had written to all the neighbours to inform them of the change
• there was a considerable distance between the dormer windows and the  properties to the rear of the development
• understood that the hours of construction condition must be adhered to
• this proposal would enhance one room within the dwellings
• the proposed skylights would provide additional light
• asked the Committee to support the application.

A Member stated that  ...  view the full minutes text for item 154