Report for Item 6 - Swale Borough Council

2.2 (Contd) PART 2
Discussion
I consider that the main considerations in determining this application remain
unchanged and are whether or not the proposed design of the buildings are
suitable to the location, and whether or not the proposal, or the loss of the existing
garages, will have any significant adverse impacts on the surrounding area.
I consider the approved design of the proposed buildings is acceptable, The
proposal offers a different type of dwelling to those which are currently available, and
when the location of the site is considered, (centrally located within an existing
estate), the proposed form of development is more appropriate here than a proposal
which would seek to replicate the existing buildings. Single storey bungalows, by
their very nature have far less visual impact both in terms of overlooking
neighbouring properties and also in terms of their intrusion upon the wider area, as
opposed to two storey houses. The applicants in their previously submitted design
and access statement informed us that the buildings have been designed to meet a
‘very good’ Eco-Homes Standard, minimising energy and water usage as well as
measures to reduce energy construction during their construction. I therefore
believe the scale and design of the development to be acceptable.
Kent Highway Services, raise no objection to either the loss of the garages or to the
amount of additional parking spaces that have been proposed.
It is clear that the garages are in a state of disrepair and that it is not economically
viable for them to remain in their current use. Many appear to have been boarded
up for some time and parking seems to occur mainly on the surrounding streets.
The applicants reiterate that the garages are at the end of their useful life and
becoming unlettable due to their poor structural state.
The applicants have submitted a supporting letter which explains that they have
recently received funding from the Homes and Communities Agency to develop the
site and are working with their consultants to tender the build contract but will not
have let the contract in time to start work on the site by 1 May 2010 when the
planning permission expires. Hence this application.
It is my considered view that the proposal represents an opportunity to enhance the
local environment whilst providing suitable accommodation for disabled people and
more useable parking facilities for local residents.
Recommendation
The proposal site is within Faversham’s built up area, where the principle of new
dwellings is acceptable. The proposal also seeks to provide some much needed
social housing. Circumstances and planning policies have not changed materially
since 2007 and I see no justification for the Council refusing planning permission
now.
Continued . . .
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