Agenda item

Application Proposal: The installation of 7 replacement windows and a means of fire escape to first floor

The Planning Officer presented his report to members. He advised that the application site was in a conservation area; however it was not a listed building. He advised that it was important that the historical features of the building were retained.

He explained that the Conservation Officer had stated that standard uPVC windows will harm the setting of the adjacent listed building.

Using PowerPoint he provided images of the site and drawings to show which windows would be replaced.

Mr M Hunt, representing the Parish Council, addressed members. He advised that the applicant had worked hard to establish a business and intended to remain in the village and he was pleased that he was working to smarten up the building. He explained that The Orchard Inn was close to unsightly buildings and that he disagreed with the comments of the Conservation Officer. He also pointed out that the building already had a rear uPVC conservatory.

Mr D Brown, the applicant addressed members. He advised that The Orchard Inn was not in a conservation area and not listed. He also advised members that the building already had a conservatory on the rear and other uPVC windows already installed; he thought that matching windows would look better. The windows proposed would match the existing uPVC windows and the windows on the cottage opposite. He pointed out that the windows were rated higher for safety and security and were in-keeping.

Councillor Nick Weeks, the Ward Member, explained that the other Ward Member, Councillor Henry Hobhouse had given his apologies for being unable to attend the meeting but had passed his views to Councillor Weeks. Councillor Hobhouse had asked Cllr Weeks to mention that the building already had a uPVC conservatory on the rear of the building.

Councillor Nick Weeks advised that he wanted to encourage businesses and that the new homes approved nearby would likely have uPVC windows installed. He recommended that the application be approved.

Following the discussion, members commented that businesses should be supported and that modern uPVC windows can look good and last a long time.

It was proposed and seconded that the application be approved, contrary to the officer recommendation.

On being put to the vote, this was carried unanimously that the application be approved, subject to a time limit condition.

RESOLVED:  that planning application 18/00403/FUL be approved, contrary to the officer recommendation, subject to conditions;

For the following reason:    

01.          The replacement windows, by virtue of their materials, form and design are appropriate on this building and would not detract from the character and appearance of the property and the setting of the adjacent listed building in accordance with policies EQ2 and EQ3 of the South Somerset local Plan and the aims and objectives of the NPPF.

Subject to the following condition;

01.       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.

02.       The development hereby permitted shall be carried out in accordance with the details and specifications on the following approved plans: Details and drawings received on 05 February 2018, details received on 14 February 2018 and details received by email from the applicant on 15 March 2018.

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

(Voting:  unanimous)