Issue - meetings

The Chairman introduced the first application of the evening, planning application number 143250, for change of use from holiday park to 9no. retirement homes for the over 50s, at Blyton Ponds, Station Road, Blyton. The Committee heard that there had been an update regarding growth levels, with there now being a growth level of two dwellings in Blyton, compared with the stated ‘zero growth’ in the report. This would alter the excess of properties through this application from an excess of seven properties, down from the stated figure of nine.

The Chairman explained there were two registered speakers for the application, the first being a statement to be read aloud from the Parish Council. The Democratic and Civic Officer read the following statement.

“Unfortunately no one from Blyton Parish Council is able to attend the Planning Committee meeting tonight. However council would like to make written representation.

Blyton Parish Council is not against the application per se but it has grave concerns about the potential of the development to exacerbate flooding in the village. Surface water flooding is already a big problem in Blyton with houses and businesses on the High Street and houses on Station Road having to be pumped out on a number of occasions over the past few years. In fact houses on Station Road in the proximity of the application site have been flooded earlier this year.

Surface water from Station Road drains into the Wash Dyke which runs close by this development and already floods the village higher up on the High Street. The potential of development of this site into permanent residences could pose further problems, for example the addition of hard standing for vehicles and impermeable garden surfaces.

Should the Planning Committee decide to approve this application, Blyton Parish Council requests that conditions be used to eliminate further risk.”

The Chairman invited the second speaker, Mr James Roberts, speaking in support of the application, to address the committee. Mr Roberts made the following statement.

“Thank you Chair and members of the committee. This application essentially seeks to swap 12 holiday lodges for nine permanent homes for people over the age of 50. These homes will be high quality lodges rather than a traditional construction. This development would therefore deliver the type of accommodation which brings wider societal benefits, as it would help provide for the ageing population in West Lindsey.

We are pleased to see that the case officer and consultees have no concerns relating to the technical impacts of the scheme. In particular, it is very clear that the proposal would not have any adverse impacts in relation to flood risk, drainage, highway safety or land contamination. It seems clear the sole issue, which has resulted in the recommendation for refusal, relates to the matter of community support.

Prior to the submission of the application, the applicant contacted the parish council to see whether they would be able to support the proposal. Unfortunately, the parish council would not confirm either way. The  ...  view the full minutes text for item 61