Issue - meetings

Recommendation: Conditional approval subject to legal agreement

Simon Weeks took no part in the discussion or voting for this item.

Chris Bowring assumed the Chair for the duration of this item.

Proposal: Full planning application for the proposed addition of four pitches to an existing four pitch caravan park for gypsy and travellers, plus reconfiguration of existing site.

Applicant: Mr D Reed

The Committee received and reviewed a report, set out in agenda pages 165 to 188.

The Committee were advised that there were no Members’ Updates.

In line with the given deadlines, three public written submissions were received for this item. These submissions were circulated to Members in advance, and noted on the evening. The submissions as provided can be found below.

Gordon Veitch, Finchamstead Parish Council, provided the following submission in objection to the application:

“We object to this inappropriate overdevelopment of the site. The proposed development would cause issues with privacy for residents of The Dittons due to the close proximity of the static/mobile homes.

We believe WBC currently has adequate provisions for gypsy and traveller pitches.

We understand the existing plans appear inaccurate, the layout of existing pitches is incorrect and do not represent the current layout of the site.

If WBC is minded to approve this application we ask that conditions are added to any approval:

• Siting of mobile homes to be an acceptable distance from adjoining properties.

• Landscaping to offer satisfactory visual protection to existing properties.

• Light pollution, any street lights to be positioned and directed within the site.”

Emily Temple, agent, provided the following submission in support of the application:

“We are pleased to bring forward this site allocated in the draft local plan update, for prospective development.  As Councillors may know, the land at number 166 has been home to an existing gypsy and traveller site since 2008 when two pitches were approved, with expansion to 4 pitches following planning approval in 2014.

The site is located immediately adjacent to the Modest Development Location of Finchampstead.  The site is operated by the occupants and owner of 166 Nine Mile Ride; being so close they are able to keep a watchful eye over the running of the site. The development would also use the existing access and hardstanding so there would be no apparent visual change when viewed from the road.

The current council need for pitches is identified as 5.5 pitches. Whilst some permissions have been granted they have not yet been implemented. Being an extension of an existing site, the land at number 166 is both suitable for development, available and deliverable immediately. This meets an ongoing need for household expansion as existing Gypsy Traveller children in the area grow up and form their own independent households. A larger site such as proposed is well below the 15 pitch maximum set in Government advice, whilst still accommodating larger single family groups.

I am pleased to note there is no objection from statutory consultees such as Highways and Environmental Health.  I can confirm a  ...  view the full minutes text for item 18