Planning Applications - Runnymede Borough Council

5. Planning Considerations
5.1 The application site is in existing commercial use within the urban area of
Chertsey Town Centre. There is no objection in principle to its
redevelopment. Concerns were raised under recent applications given the
proposed height and position of the building and its possible impact upon
existing residential properties to the rear.
5.2 This revised scheme has adjusted the overall depth of the building to 9.2
metres, retaining a revised distance of some 15.6 metres to the rear
boundary of the site. In addition the applicant proposes a two metre deep
strip of landscaping along the rear boundary of the site. If permitted the
proposed building would be located some 2.6 metres closer to the existing
residential properties to the rear than the original building. At its closest
point, the proposal would be located some 30 metres from the main rear
walls of residential properties along Riversdell Close. This would be a
similar distance to that already existing between those residential properties
along Riversdell Close and Hamilton Court, a commercial development
adjacent to the application site. In addition the applicant has confirmed that
all windows located upon the rear elevation facing these properties would
be designed with obscure glass or be high level, in order to prevent
overlooking and loss of privacy to existing residential properties along
Riversdell Close.
5.3 This revised scheme is considered to have overcome earlier concerns.
Whilst the new building would be closer to existing properties than the
original building, the distance retained is considered sufficient to protect the
amenities of residential properties to the rear, so as to prevent unacceptable
levels of overlooking and loss of privacy. The revisions are also felt to have
overcome concerns relating to overbearing impact. The applicants also
propose a planting strip along the rear boundary, which would help screen
the proposal from rear dwellings. The proposed types and height of planting
would have to be considered during the submission of reserved matters.
5.4 The plans also detail the erection of a 3.3 metre high wall along the rear
boundary with properties on Riversdell Close. The current concrete fencing
has a maximum height of 2.4 metres. Following discussions with the agent
he has confirmed that the rear boundary has been increased in height
following a request by local residents along Riversdell Close. Whilst the
proposed screening to the site is not to be considered at this stage,
concerns are raised in respect of this increased height and the impact upon
the visual amenities of the area. It is considered however that any
replacement screening should not be any lower than the existing concrete
fence extending to a height of 2.4 metres in order to protect the amenities of
neighbouring residential properties.