Agenda and minutes

P. Ellis (VS), C. Sanliturk (LU), J. Aspey (student).

None.

The Minutes of the meeting held on 11^th October 2023 are attached and the Panel is asked to confirm them as a correct record.

The Panel agreed the notes.

The Director of Planning, Development and Transportation submits a report on planning applications received for consideration by the Panel.

A)   Relocation of Duke of Rutland Statue

Pre-App Presentation by Glen Coltman (LCC)

The Panel thanked Glen Coltman for his presentation. They acknowledged the benefits of the proposal and welcomed the reinstatement of this important statue in its original location overlooking the market, as the artist intended.

B)   1 – 4 Glenwood Close

Planning Application 20231764

Construction of second floor extension atop existing block of flats to create two additional flats (2 x 2 bed) (Class C3) with hipped roof over and upward extension of existing chimney stacks

The Panel had concerns about the application. Members felt the scheme represents a crude extrusion of the building upwards and were in agreement that the plans did not give appropriate consideration to the proportions and features of the original building. They felt the application contained vague and insufficient information on important elements such as materials. While the Panel acknowledged the site was currently well screened by existing mature vegetation, they agreed that the increased height and massing would have a detrimental impact on the character and appearance of the Stoneygate Conservation Area.

OBJECTION

C) 185 Ratcliffe Road, Dover Court

Planning Application 20231960

Demolition of garages; construction of single and two storey extensions at side and rear of house (Class C3); extension to roof; alterations to house and boundary.

The panel noted the changes to the original proposal and welcomed the reduction in scale of the scheme and noted the fact that the west elevation was now un-altered. They also acknowledged the fact that efforts had been made to address the previous comments of the panel. However, they felt that the proposed 2-storey side extension was too strong and dominant on the main building to the extent that it would cause harm to the setting of the Stoneygate Conservation Area. They asked that this element be amended to appear more subservient. A question was raised about the age of the existing garages and it was noted that the pantile roofs looked old. It was accepted that there was no control over these given the lack of designation.

SEEK AMENDMENTS

D)   123 Letchworth Road [Late Item]

Planning Application 20231923

Construction of one detached two storey dwelling (1 x 2 bed); associated parking and landscaping (Class C3); installation of vehicular access; construction of boundary walls

The Panel were not opposed to the principal of development in this location; however, they felt the current proposal was incongruous with the existing character of the area. They felt the design was eclectic, incorporating elements which did not fit with the established architectural language of the street. Some members were concerned about the impact on the locally listed 123 Letchworth Road, principally the loss of the generous garden and harm to its setting. They felt the new dwelling appeared to be squeezed in, undermining the group setting of the host building and its locally listed neighbours.

Member agreed the scheme would benefit from a reduction in scale and a more cohesive design approach.

SEEK AMENDMENTS

The panel made no  ...  view the full minutes text for item 252.