Issue - meetings

REFUSED

Description of application – Erection of single storey building for class A1 and A3 flexible use (coffee shop) with "Drive Thru" facility and associated alterations to site layout and car parking.

Oral representations in support of the application were received at the meeting. It was reported that further objections to the application had been received and an email in objection to the application had been received from Ward Member, Councillor Angela Page, and circulated to Members.  The Chief Planner’s representative drew Members’ attention to Councillor Page’s concern with regard to the loss of parking spaces in the retail park and the proximity of the proposed ‘drive thru’ to the residents of Meadow View and he confirmed that a sequential assessment had been carried out recently.  An email from the Agent in support of the application had also been received and circulated to Members.

Members noted the Ward Members’ comments and were also concerned with the proposed impact on residential amenity from car engines and headlight pollution and the hours of operation.

Members having considered the report, objections and representations, RESOLVED that PERMISSION BE REFUSED for the following reasons:-

1.  Having regard to local knowledge the proposed development would be seriously detrimental to the amenities of nearby residential properties in Meadow View by reason of traffic noise, light and general disturbance associated with the use, the location of the refuse store, the excessive hours of operation proposed and the increase in the level of signage, contrary to Policies BE1, S7 and S9 of the Unitary Development Plan and Policies 37 and 98 of the Emerging Local Plan.

2.  The proposed development would result in a reduction in the level of available car parking at the retail park leading to increased demand for on-street parking in the vicinity of the site, which would be likely to prejudice the free flow of traffic and conditions of general safety in the highway contrary to Policies T3 and T18 of the Unitary Development Plan and draft Policies 30 and 32 of the emerging Local Plan.