Planning Committee Update Report

Subsequent to the Committee's previous deferral of this application in order to conduct a site visit, the case officer reported on the matter and summarised the key issues as set out in the report. The officer clarified the use of the footpath, access by right of way over Upper Farm Hill Lane and receipt of 27 further letters of comment since the agenda had been published. The Department also received notification that the footpath on Upper Farmhill Lane was closed for a period of time to the public. Following this the applicants wrote in providing the deeds of the property and showing right of way over the footpath towards Farmhill Manor. In addition an amended plan was received showing how a separate footpath to be lit by bollards would be provided in the site. The Members confirmed receipt of the further comment The Highways Officer was invited to report on the recent site visit. Members first remarked on the attractiveness of the application property. Enquiry was made as to how the proposed 'number' of attendees/customers to the property had been arrived at. This was confirmed as being put forward by the applicants, although DCS do control numbers of children as a result of space standards within buildings. Miss Chance did indicate that the numbers of children can also be limited for planning reasons such as the level of customer activity generated by the change in use. During the site visit, which was primarily to consider the impact on highway safety, the activity at the junction had been observed, both vehicular and pedestrian. Mrs Fletcher was asked to comment further and whether speed control measures could be made. She confirmed that this was possible. Lack of the pavement around the tree was discussed and whether this could be addressed. Figures as to vehicular movement around the property at peak demand, and patterns as to use (letter of 10th January), was referred to. Miss Fletcher claimed that she had not seen the letter. The Committee afforded her time to digest the comment whilst discussion continued. It was suggested that alternative and more appropriate uses for the property could be considered. Proximity of the residents supporting the proposal alongside those objecting was noted. General Policy 2 (specifically sections g) and i)) was referred to. The volume of traffic in that locality remained a concern, along with the appropriateness of the junction. Potential that a planning approval may result in the creation of a traffic black spot was suggested. Mrs Fletcher confirmed that her assessment of the application remained unaltered by the submission made dated January 10th. The Members enquired if it had authority to require road improvements by condition which was replied to by Mrs Fletcher. {{table:329407}} ## Decision The Committee declined the recommendation of the case officer, with exception of Mr Cottier, and the application was refused. By Members vote the reasons for the refusal were agreed as impact on highway safety. 1) The proposed use, due to the number of visitors it would generate, would be likely to result in an unacceptable impact on the safety of highway users, both pedestrian and vehicular, due to the inadequacy of the width and sightlines of the crossroads at Farmhill Park/Drive and Farmhill Lane.