Proposed residential development of 25 dwellings along with new access and associated works.

Application approved, in accordance with the case officer’s recommendation.

The Planning Officer gave a presentation on the application.

In accordance with the criteria for public speaking, Mr Mears spoke on behalf of Kimbolton Parish Council and Mr Robinson spoke in objection to the application.

In accordance with the council's constitution the local award member spoke on the application, he referred to outline planning permission from December 2015 that was given for the development of up to 21 dwellings in the field adjoining A4112 and Chestnut Avenue. The application was then revised made in full as opposed to outline for 25 dwellings. Kimbolton Parish Council supported the 2018 application and was endorsed as part of the Kimbolton NDP which was supported in their local referendum. Since 2018, there has been an issue of phosphate with the application site within the hydrological catchment of the River Lugg and progress was stalled for four years. The council’s approach is to offer phosphate credits as they become available and they are now available for the application proposal and on the basis of mitigation provided, positive appropriate assessment has now been completed. Natural England agrees that with the appropriate nutrient neutrality in place, there are no adverse effects on the River Wye Special Area of Conservation (SAC). The most significant change from the 2018 report has been the applicants’ agreement to increase the number of affordable housing from 4 to 6 although the total number remains the same. Whilst the affordable housing element of 24% is not as high as originally proposed in 2015, this is a significant improvement. Kimbolton PC requested that affordable housing is offered strictly to local persons with family or similar historical connections, and it is pleasing that the affordable housing units are to be offered to those with a local connection. It was noted that the parish council have asked to be directly consulted on the allocation of Section 106 monies, set aside specifically for the community of Kimbolton, and hopes that this will be agreed. It was added that drainage and flooding are the main issue of concern raised during consultation. Highway safety was also raised as a concern for the village and the provision of traffic calming is a priority for the parish council. It was requested that the parish council are involved in discussing all traffic related proposals with the relevant officer. The local ward member requested that extra sporting facilities and equipment be provided as part of the S106 agreement.

The committee debated the application. During consideration of the application the committee raised the following principal points:

-          The building of both affordable housing and bungalows was welcomed by members.

-          Pleased with improvement in planning contribution by developer, particularly in relation to affordable housing.

-          The principle of development was supported in this location with existing bus route and road links cited as supporting factors.

-          The use of materials are to be in keeping with the surrounding area in terms of design and appearance.

-          Flooding and drainage could be exacerbated by  ...  view the full minutes text for item 35