Siting of temporary living accommodation for agricultural worker.

Deferred pending a Site Inspection.

The Team Leader (Enforcement) gave a presentation on the application and updates / additional representations received following the publication of the agenda were provided in the update sheet.

In accordance with the criteria for public speaking Mrs Stevenson, representing Holmer & Shellack and Pype & Lyde Parish Councils, spoke in objection to the application and Mr Smith, the applicant’s agent, spoke in support.

The Chairman advised the Committee that Councillor SJ Robertson, the local ward member, could not be present at the meeting but had prepared a written statement that would be presented by Councillor PJ Edwards. The statement addressed a number of issues, including:

·         The application had caused concern as there was a question as to whether the proposed usage could be classed as agricultural.

·         The usage of the site was the rearing of ducks for the game industry.

·         The applicant lived near the site.

·         The site had a difficult and complex planning history.

·         The application was contrary to Unitary Development Plan PPS7.

·         The Committee should attend the site prior to making a decision.

A site visit was proposed on the grounds that the setting and surroundings were fundamental to the determination of the application.

Members discussed whether a site visit would be beneficial with the general view being that it would be of benefit to see the site and the surrounding areas prior to making a decision is respect of the application.

RESOLVED

THAT the determination of the application be deferred pending a site inspection on the following ground:

·         The setting and surroundings are fundamental to the determination or to the conditions being considered, and cannot be reasonably made without visiting the site in question.