Issue - meetings

Recommendation: Conditional Approval.

Proposal: Application to vary condition 2 (Approved plans) of planning permission 161596 for the proposed development of a Park and Ride facility providing approximately 277 vehicular spaces, motorcycle parking and associated vehicular access and landscaping) in order to alter finished ground levels/ retaining walls, and the layout of parking spaces, bus stop and bus turning area.

Applicant:  Wokingham Borough Council

The Committee received and reviewed a report regarding the application set out in agenda pages 163 to 193.

The Committee were advised that the Members’ Update included:

·         Earley Town Council comments and officer response.

Michael Firmager, Earley Town Council, spoke in objection to the application.  The Town Council were of the view that although the proposal may reduce traffic entering Reading Borough, Earley would not be benefited.  Michael Firmager commented that the high wall would have a detrimental visual impact on the surrounding area and may also result in unsafe, dark areas in the car park.

The Case Officer emphasised that the wall would not create dark areas within the car park.  In response to a Member question regarding enhanced planting and its upkeep Officers indicated that the Council was the landowner.

RESOLVED:  That application 182496 be approved subject to conditions and informatives as set out in agenda pages 164 to 171.