Agenda item

Kirby Lane, Melton Mowbray

The Local Plans Manager addressed the Committee and provided a summary of the application and that the recommendation was for approval. It was noted that the road adjacent to the western green was blocked paved which provided a softer, less urbanised feel than a tarmac finish.

(Councillor Douglas was present as an observer.)

Pursuant to Chapter 2, Part 9, Paragraphs 2.8-2.28 of the Council’s Constitution in relation to  public speaking at Planning Committee, the Chair allowed the following to give a 3 minute presentation:

·      Robert Galij of Barratt David Wilson Homes

    In response to Member questions, Mr Galij responded

·      It was a highly desirable development and living environment which was fit for purpose, and would co-exist within the wider area and holistically connect to other parts of the entire development 

·      It the application was approved, they would acquire the site and commence construction as soon practically possible. Build rates were  market driven and there were no indications for a negative effect or on the public’s desire for owner occupation on this site

·      During the pandemic, the company had continued activities whilst strictly adhering to covid regulations and they were now back up to full speed and would seek to utilise and employ locally if possible

In response to Member questions, the Local Plans Manager responded :

·         On reducing the speed limit on the development to 20mph, the limit was set by the Highway Authority at 30mph

·         The number of homes on the site was determined at the outline stage

·         A management company would be responsible for the maintenance of the green and open spaces 

During discussion the following points were noted:

·         Members were satisfied with the development and felt that the discussions between the developer, Ward Councillors and the Lead Planning Officer (Sarah Legge) had resulted in positive compromises and a much improved development and those who had taken part in the negotiations were to be commended for their commitment and approach

·         Members appreciated the improved parking arrangements, the increase in green space, linkage to Kirby Fields and the softer look and flow of the development

·         The development would support employment and boost the town centre and the Borough’s economy not only during construction but when people moved in and it was felt to be a desirable place for people to make their home

Councillor Wood proposed that the application be approved. Councillor Higgins seconded the motion.

RESOLVED

That application 19/01099/REM be APPROVED subject to conditions.

(Unanimous)

REASONS

The application site is allocated for housing and outline planning permission for the development has been granted. The principle of the access and the number of units proposed considered and approved at the outline stage.

The proposal as revised would result in a form of development that would be acceptable to the character of the locality by virtue of its appearance, landscaping, layout and scale and would not unduly compromise residential amenity or be prejudicial to highway safety. For these reasons, the proposal is considered to comply with the relevant paragraphs of the NPPF, the National Design Guidance, and Policy D1 of the Melton Local Plan which requires all new development to be sympathetic to the character of the area in which the site is located.