Agenda item

Proposal: Change of use from barn to business offices and existing farm building to storage.

The Planning Officer presented the application, as detailed in the agenda. He explained the use of various buildings on the farm and about the change of use classes required. He noted concerns had been raised about the access especially when events were being held at the site, but acknowledged there was little scope to improve the access due to existing buildings. He highlighted the key considerations and explained why his recommendation was for refusal of the application.

The applicant addressed members and explained the history of the charity and the associated use of some of the buildings at the farm. He noted the access from Main Street was also in agricultural use. The number of events taking place at the site had increased and now 4 or 5 events a year required use of overflow parking in the neighbouring fields. When such events took place they engaged experienced stewards to oversee parking using the existing access, and it was a tried and tested system with no issues to date. He asked members to approve the application to allow them to continue with the charity, which benefitted thousands of children in many countries.

Ward member, Council Jo Roundell Greene, noted use of the buildings was accepted but comments raised about the access and Highways were the issue. She hoped the applicant had explained, and reassured members, that the site access was adequate and stewarding was in place for large events. She fully supported the application and proposed approval on the grounds of the access being adequate.

During a short discussion members generally expressed their support for the application. Comments included:

·         Not against application but feel with the number of events there may be an impact on highway safety and also residential amenity.

·         Events have happened for several years without any issues.

·         Feel there should be a restriction on the number of large events to protect highway safety.

·         No issues with what is proposed.

On hearing the comments made and as members appeared minded to approve the application, the Area Lead suggested it may be helpful to have a condition to clarify the maximum number of events that could be held.

At this point in the proceedings, the meeting was adjourned for a few minutes in order for the planning officers to liaise with the applicant to confirm how many large events were held annually and the attendances. Upon reconvening, the Area Lead informed members and public of the issues discussed during the adjournment. He noted that three to five large events were held at the barn each year for approximately 70 to 100 people, and it could be conditioned that the number of such events be recorded and made available to the Local Planning Authority.

As members were minded to approve the application, and based on comments raised during discussion, the Planning Officer suggested wording for the justification, and also advised that conditions would be required for:

·           A traffic management plan.

·           Approved plans

·           Only to be used for agriculture or by School in a Bag Charity and associated fundraising or education events.

·           D1 use restricted to no more than 15 events attracting more than 70 attendees each year.

On being put to the vote, the proposal to approve the application, contrary to the officer recommendation, was carried 9 in favour with 1 abstention.

(Voting: 9 in favour, 1 abstention)