Agenda item

Application Proposal: Erection of single storey extension to east elevation of the dwelling.

The Area Lead Planner (East) presented the report to members. He explained that there had been some further information received from the applicant which confirmed that 2 of the 4 existing bedrooms were used for occasional bed and breakfast accommodation.

Using a PowerPoint presentation, members were shown plans to show the location of the dwelling as well as photos and plans to show existing and proposed elevations.

The Area Lead Planner (East) read out an extract from supplementary guidance titled ‘SSDC Conversion of Barns and Other Historic Buildings 1991’, to highlight the requirement to preserve the specific characteristics of the barn by avoiding additional extensions. He explained that the officer was recommending that the application be refused. 

Mrs J Cox, the applicant and owner, addressed members. She explained that the application would enable her to offer self-catering accommodation as well as bed and breakfast accommodation, which she felt would encourage visitors to stay in the area for longer and increase tourism. She also explained that the extension was not on the front of the property, nor was the property listed or had any historic significance. She also pointed out that the Parish Council had supported the application and that no neighbours had objected. She also highlighted that an extension to the rear of the building had previously been approved. 

Councillor Nick Weeks, Ward Member, felt that small businesses should be encouraged and further stated that the site was in a good location and was not overlooked.

Councillor Henry Hobhouse, also Ward Member, agreed that the site was hard to find and could not overlook any other properties. He commented that he could see no reason why this application should be refused.

During the discussion, the Area Lead Officer (East) confirmed that the site was not in a conservation area. Members also noted that the barn had previously been extended and felt that tourism should be encouraged.

Following the discussion, it was proposed and seconded that the application be approved, contrary to the officer report as members

On being put to the vote, this was carried unanimously.

RESOLVED:  that planning application 17/03899/FUL be approved contrary to the officer recommendation for the following reason;

1.            The proposal, on an already extended barn, will have no substantial adverse impact on visual or residential amenity in accordance with policy EQ2 of the South Somerset Local Plan and the relevant sections of the NPPF.

Subject to the following conditions;

1.            The development hereby permitted shall be begun before the expiration of three years from the date of this permission.

Reason: To accord with the provisions of section 91(1) of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990.

2.            The development hereby permitted shall be carried out in accordance with the following approved plans date stamped as received 27.09.17 and reference:

a)         Site Location Plan (scale 1:100)

b)         Drawing No. 03 – Floor Plan as Proposed

c)         Drawing No. 04 – Elevations Proposal 2 – Timber Frame

d)         Drawing No. 04 – Site Plan (scale 1:500) – date stamped 06.10.17

And the external surfaces of the development shall be of materials as indicated in the application form and no other materials shall be used without the prior written consent of the Local Planning Authority.

Reason: For the avoidance of doubt and in the interests of proper planning.

(Voting: unanimous)