REFUSED

Description of application – Demolition of existing buildings at Nos.50-54 Station Road and erection of four storey building comprising commercial/office space at ground floor level, 6 one bedroom and 2 two bedroom flats with associated secure bin and cycle storage for commercial and residential use and landscaped amenity space.

Oral representations in objection to and in support of the application were received at the meeting. Supplementary information and photographs had been received from the objector and circulated to Members.  Supplementary information and photographs had been received from the Ward Member, Councillor William Huntington-Thresher, in objection to the application and circulated to Members.  Councillor Huntington-Thresher’s comments are appended to these minutes, ‘Annex A’. It was reported that no objections had been received from Highways Division and the application made no parking provision for residents or the business.

Councillor Page walked past the site most days and parking was chaotic with restricted parking in the local vicinity.  She acknowledged the untidy site could take a reduced development.  Councillor Boughey concurred with Councillor Page.

Councillor Owen objected to the proposed development on a busy road with buses, bus stops, diesel fumes, pedestrians and prams etc at Orpington Station Approach with a Taxi Company on the opposite side of the road. 

The Chairman had visited the site and also objected to the application.

Members having considered the report, objections and representations, RESOLVED that PERMISSION BE REFUSED as recommended, for the reasons set out in the report of the Assistant Director, Planning.