Agenda item

4.                St Clements Heights

Planning Manager Helen Milner introduced the details of the application to members and noted that the application relates to a development granted outline planning permission in 2013, which is currently under construction. Helen Milner explained that four objections were received to the proposal with the main issues relating to overlooking, noise disturbance and ecological impact. It was then noted that the balconies on the floors above were approved under the original permission and did not form part of the proposed development.

Councillor Walsh asked whether the townhouses were one unit and if drainage had been considered. Helen Milner confirmed that the townhouses are single units and that drainage is covered by building regulations. Councillor Ingleby asked whether the proposed balconies are confined to the upper ground floor. Helen Milner confirmed that they are. Councillor Sorba asked whether there was a history of noise complaints relating to the upper floor balconies. Helen Milner noted that the building is under construction and therefore isn’t occupied.

The committee then heard representation from Oliver Milne from Savills, representing the applicants. Mr Milne noted that the principle of external amenity space has already been consented and stated that the proposed balconies represent a more efficient use of space. Oliver Milne then explained that the balconies would not feature any external lighting. Mr Milne finished by referencing the conclusions of the noise impact report.

Members then received representation from Annette Eliot-Dunn objecting to the application. Annette Eliot-Dunn explained that local residents were promised that the development would not result in light pollution however, this promise has not been kept. It was then stated that trees screening the development had been removed and that conversations from the building site can be clearly heard at nearby houses. Annette Eliot-Dunn then explained that the loss of trees had resulted in greater noise and light pollution from the site and noted that the block is clearly visible from Vigilant Close. Annette Eliot-Dunne concluded by raising concerns regarding the impact of additional lighting and heaters on the balconies.

Councillor Walsh stated that the committee are not considering the impact of the construction stage of the development and asked for clarification over the main objections to the balconies. Annette Eliot-Dunn responded that the main concerns were noise disturbances and light pollution. Councillor Walsh asked what specifically is concerning about the balconies. Annette Eliot-Dunn responded that the topography of the land amplifies noise and that lights are often left on overnight.

Helen Milner stated that the consented building provides outdoor amenity space and therefore the material planning considerations relate to potential increase in noise and light caused by the additional balconies. Councillor Ingleby asked what the benefits the additional balconies provide. Helen Milner responded by explaining that the benefit is additional amenity space, but the main planning consideration here is whether the balconies result in additional harm. Councillor Sorba asked whether there had been a breach of condition at the construction site. Helen Milner replied that the construction stage is a separate matter and is not related to the proposal.

Councillor Walsh noted that members can only consider the current proposal and moved to approve the application. The motion was seconded by Councillor Holland.

Members voted as follows:

FOR APPROVAL: Councillors Amrani, Holland, Ingleby and Walsh

AGAINST: Councillor Sorba

Resolved: That planning permission be approved in respect of application DC/18/105677