Conservation Area Consent was sought to demolish the existing dwelling and attached garage. The site was within the Kippington Road Conservation Area and had been identified in the Kippington Road and Oakhill Road CAMP as “contributing to character”.

Officers informed the Committee that the existing structures were considered a heritage asset under section 12 of the National Planning Policy Framework and, unless a particular exemption applied, there was a presumption against demolition. Demolition would detract from the character and appearance of the Conservation Area.

Members’ attention was drawn to the tabled Late Observations sheet.

The Committee was addressed by the following speakers:

Against the Application:       -

For the Application:              Justine Digweed

Parish Representative:         -

Local Member:                      Cllr. Mrs. Hunter

In light of comments by the speakers, Members requested that Officers clarify whether the applicant had submitted any evidence to indicate whether the existing buildings were structurally unsound. No such documents had been received. Members believed this information was required before a decision could be made, due to the weight put on this matter by the public speakers.

It was MOVED by the Vice-Chairman and was duly seconded that the applications both for Conservation Area Consent and Planning Permission be deferred for the applicant to produce a full structural survey.

Officers clarified that they would need time to consider any such evidence once received.

The motion was put to the vote and there voted –

12 votes in favour of the motion

2 votes against the motion

Resolved: That the application for Conservation Area Consent be deferred for the applicant to produce a full structural survey.