Agenda item

Proposal: Proposed installation of 2 No. dormer windows to the rear elevation following removal of 2 No. existing roof lights.

The Graduate Case Officer (Planning) presented the application as detailed in the agenda and noted there was also an associated application for Listed Building consent. He highlighted the key considerations and explained that the principal of dormers would affect the historical roofline. He noted that other surrounding properties with dormers was not a reason to approve future applications.

A representative for Long Sutton Parish Council spoke in support of the application and some of his points included:

·         The proposal would not adversely impact the historical Manor or church as the dormers will face away from those listed buildings.

·         Feel there is an inaccuracy in the report - other properties nearby have dormers which have been there for over 100 years and were not part of the redevelopment some years ago.

The applicant then addressed members and some of their comments included:

·         The proposed dormers would blend in with the existing materials.

·         They were seeking to improve ventilation to the current upstairs bedrooms instead of needing to use fans and air conditioning.

·         The existing roof lights were inadequate and needed replacing.

·         An extension had already been granted for the rear of the property and so the barn appearance had already been altered, and two dormers would be welcomed.

Ward Member, Councillor Gerard Tucker, raised several comments in support of the application and also referred to policy EQ3. In his opinion the proposal would not contradict the historic setting. The property needed sufficient air flow without the need to have air conditioning units.

The Conservation Officer noted and referred to guidance regarding barn conversions and the need to retain character after conversion, otherwise the primary aim of preserving the traditional building would be lost.

During a short discussion most members expressed their support for the application, and some of the comments included:

·         Cannot see any issues with the proposal.

·         Conservation Officer had thoroughly considered guidance, policies and regulations.

·         A common sense approach needs to be applied for this application.

·         We have to try and make older buildings habitable in the current housing situation and take a common sense approach.

·         Will be energy efficiency from not using air conditioning units.

·         The guidance is acknowledged, but in this case the benefits outweigh the harm.

·         Dormers might be unusual for barns, but they are not unusual in this particular area.

In response to comments made, the Principal Planner (Development Management) explained that the barn conversion guidance, which had been adopted in 2019, referred to the need to retain the character of the barn. Officer opinion was that the two dormers proposed would be contrary to that guidance.

Members acknowledged the advice provided by officers, but also noted it was guidance. It was proposed to approve the application, contrary to the officer recommendation, on the grounds of the materials and design being acceptable, and contributing to energy efficiency alongside the balance to retain the heritage.

On hearing the comments made the Principal Planning Officer (Development Management) suggested the wording for the reason and advised on conditions that would be required. On being put to the vote, the proposal was carried 8 in favour, 1 against with 0 abstentions.

                                    (Voting 8 in favour, 1 against, 0 abstentions)