Agenda item

The Committee considered an application seeking planning permission for the erection of one self-build detached dwelling together with associated works on land to the rear of Langmead, West Street, North Kelsey.

The Officer advised that, following the publication of the revised National Planning Policy Framework, it was recommended that the first reason for refusal be amended to include reference to Policy S5 of the National Planning Policy Framework. Members of the Committee were advised that the reason for refusal would therefore conclude that the principle of development in the proposed location would be contrary to Policies S1 and S4 of the Central Lincolnshire Local Plan and Policy S5 of the National Planning Policy Framework, specifically points 1 and 4.

The application was then presented to the Committee, including details of the site location, the proposed development, access arrangements, site photographs, and the relationship of the site to the developed footprint of North Kelsey.

Mr Lawrence, the applicant, addressed the Committee in support of the application. He advised that the proposal was for a self-build dwelling intended for occupation by his family. He stated that the site occupied a sustainable location close to the centre of North Kelsey and was within walking distance of local facilities, including the village school, village green, chapel and public house.

Mr Lawrence further stated that the site should be regarded as falling within the settlement boundary, noting that it was surrounded by residential development on three sides and that nearby properties extended further west than the proposed development. Reference was also made to the updated National Planning Policy Framework and to the absence of any substantial harm arising from the proposal.

In response, an Officer reminded Members that there were no defined settlement boundaries and that the proposal should be assessed against the relevant definitions of appropriate location and developed footprint contained within the Central Lincolnshire Local Plan. Members were also advised that approval of the application could result in setting a precedent for further residential development within the wider paddock area.

During the debate, the Chairman commented that the site visit had been beneficial in understanding the relationship of the site to the wider village and noted its proximity to the village school and other local facilities. The Member expressed the view that the proposed dwelling would be closely related to the existing built form of the village.

A Committee Member expressed the view that, unlike other developments referenced during the debate, the proposal would not represent a continuation of existing frontage development and would instead introduce development behind existing properties. The Member therefore indicated support for the Officer recommendation.

Another Member of the Committee advised that, whilst understanding the points raised in support of the application, concerns remained regarding the scale and siting of the proposal and its impact on the character of the village. Reference was also made to the weight to be afforded to the revised National Planning Policy Framework.

With three votes cast in favour of the proposal and two abstentions, it was agreed that planning permission be REFUSED in line with the Officer recommendation.