Description of application - Demolition of existing dwelling and erection of two storey building, with accommodation in the roofspace, comprising of eight flats (4x one bedroom; 2x two bedroom; 2x three bedroom apartments), together with associated parking and landscaping.

Oral representations in objection to and in support of the application were received at the meeting.  The Chief Planner’s representative advised that a late revised plan had been received from the applicant and it had not been reviewed by Highways Division.

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 Chief Planner with an amendment to Reason 1 and a further reason to read:-

REASON 1:  The proposal, by reason of its excessive width, massing and site coverage, would constitute a cramped overdevelopment of the site, leading to an undesirable diminution in spatial standards of the Bickley Area of Special Residential Character, detrimental to its character and appearance, and contrary to Policies BE1, H10, H7 and H9 of the Unitary Development Plan and the Council's adopted Supplementary Planning Guidance 1 and 2.

REASON 3:  The proposed building, by reason of its 3^rd floor balconies, would result in a loss of privacy and increased degree of overlooking into nearby properties (in particular Elmhurst to the rear), thereby contrary to Policy BE1 of the Unitary Development Plan.