Issue - meetings

Recommendation: Conditional approval

Proposal: Full application for the change of use of three existing nursery glasshouses into events area relating to the existing nursery

Applicant: Hare Hatch Sheeplands

The Committee received and reviewed a report about this application, set out in agenda pages 57 to 80.

The Committee were advised that the Members’ Update included:

·           A request from the agent to review conditions 3 and 4, and associated officer responses in objection;

·           Amendment to condition 3(f);

·           Amendment to condition 4.

Frank Moore, resident, spoke in support of the application. Frank stated that he was a keen amateur gardener, and he fully supported this planning application to allow three existing nursery structures to host horticultural events. Frank added that this site was a benefit to the community, and the application was fully in line with Wokingham Borough Council’s (WBC’s) vision of enabling strong and vibrant communities to thrive.

Alyson Jones, agent, spoke in support of the application. Alyson stated that the enforcement notice associated with the site did not prohibit the events related to this application. Alyson added that a range of activities would be hosted on site, including flower shows, children’s activities, community events and Tywford in Bloom. Alyson stated that the applicant had applied for permission to host events on weekends and school holidays, however they accepted the restricted hours.

Stephen Conway stated that he fully supported the proposals, and queried how the 24 day limit was calculated. Simon Taylor, Case Officer, stated that the Inspector had previously commented that 20% was an appropriate guide in establishing what constituted an ancillary use limit. Officers had calculated 20% of 52 weekends, which rounded to 12 weekends (or 24 days). 73 days, as requested by the applicant, was deemed as excessive when compared to the existing use.

Andrew Mickleburgh recognised the significant community benefit of the application, and queried whether there were any parking concerns associated with the proposals. Judy Kelly, Highways Development Manager, stated that there were 85 parking spaces required for A1 use standards, which were available within the site, and therefore the parking provision was deemed satisfactory for the proposals.

Pauline Jorgensen queried what defined a community event. Simon Taylor stated that a list of events was contained on agenda page 59.

Malcolm Richards queried whether the hours of use should reflect bank holiday usage, as standard on applications. Simon Taylor stated that the hours needed to be corrected to reflect the existing conditions on site.

RESOLVED That application number 192018 be approved, subject to conditions and informatives as set out in agenda pages 58 to 60, amendments to condition 3(f) and 4 as set out in the Members’ Update, and amendment to the restrictions of use to reflect the existing conditions relating to bank holidays.