Issue - meetings

Proposal Description: Change of use of land from agricultural to Class C3 (Dwellinghouse). Development comprising the reshaping of the reservoir to provide for the construction of a floating five-bedroom dwellinghouse, with part subterranean garage, made pursuant to the provisions of paragraph 79(e) of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) (2019). To include: the formation of a new vehicular access from Abbotstone Road, the laying of a driveway and forecourt, engineering works for the purpose of landscaping, and the installation of two floating solar islands.

The application was introduced. Members were referred to the Update sheet which provided additional information concerning letters received from the applicant on 9 August 2021, from the agent on 13 August 2021 and 14 August 2021 and a letter from Town Legal on behalf of the applicant on 16 August 2021. The letters raised several issues, which in summary were: concern over consultee responses, the case officer planning judgement, the incompleteness of the report, the proposed refusal reason on nitrates, the councils 5-year housing land supply, officer engagement with the applicant, the lack of consultation with the DRP and the case officer’s interpretation of the term “isolated dwelling”. These letters did not raise any new material considerations.

The Update sheet also drew the committee’s attention to four further comments received in support of the application and additional comments from the Winchester City Council Strategic Planning Team regarding the requirements of the National Planning Policy Framework paragraphs 79e and 80.

During public participation, Martin Pratt (applicant) and Guy Jones spoke in support of the application and answered members questions.

The committee proceeded to ask questions and debate the application.

RESOLVED:

The committee agreed to refuse permission for the reasons set out in the report and the Update Sheet.