Erection of a two storey side extension; two single storey rear extensions, alterations to rear roof design incorporating first floor extension; demolition of existing garage; erection of new garage with cycle store; removal of existing decking area and erection of paved terrace with low level garden store underneath; alterations to the fenestration.

The proposal was for a number of extensions at 29 Vine Avenue.

The site was within the urban confines of Sevenoaks in an area containing a variety of building styles and ages. It was a corner plot between Vine Avenue and Hitchen Hatch Lane, close to Pound Lane. It was set slightly higher than the highway and was bordered by mature vegetation to the east and north. The site benefited from extant permission from 2010 for the erection of a two storey extension and basement, new front dormer, resized dormer and extension to garage.

The Officer’s report advised that the proposed garage was 0.8m higher than the existing garage, would still be subservient to the house and incorporated materials on the dwelling. The development would respect the context of the site and would not have an unacceptable impact on the street scene. Any potentially significant impacts on the amenities of nearby dwellings could be satisfactorily mitigated by way of the conditions imposed.

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

The Committee was addressed by the following speakers:

Against the Application:       -

For the Application:              Martin Bush

Parish Representative:         Cllr. Hogarth

Local Member:                      Cllr. Raikes

In response to a question the speaker for the application confirmed he was aware of the increase in area of impervious material. They would arrange a large soakaway in the rear garden to reduce the flooding effect. Part of the boundary wall would be removed to allow access for plant and equipment; they would try to reuse the bricks when the wall was replaced.

Officers confirmed that they would request that any vegetation replaced would be of an appropriate size.

It was MOVED by the Chairman and was duly seconded that the recommendation in the report to grant permission subject to conditions be adopted.

Members felt the conditions, particularly those relating to landscaping, would make a significant difference.  The design of the garage would be in keeping with the existing dwelling. The proposal was a balanced design

The motion was put to the vote and it was unanimously -

Resolved: That planning permission be GRANTED subject to the following conditions:-

1)         The development hereby permitted shall be begun before the expiration of three years from the date of this permission.

In pursuance of section 91 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990.

2)         The development hereby permitted shall be carried out in accordance with the following approved plans:- Drawing Number 397/A1/12 Revision C, dated December 2012, stamped 26 February 2013;- Drawing Number 397/A1/10 Revision B, dated December 2012;- Drawing Number 397/A1/11 Revision B, dated December 2012; stamped 26 February 2013;

For the avoidance of doubt and in the interests of proper planning.

3)         No development shall be carried out on the land until details of the materials to be used in the construction of the external surfaces of the extensions hereby permitted have been submitted to and approved in writing by the Council. The development shall be carried out using the approved materials.

To ensure that the appearance of the development is in harmony with the existing character of the area as supported by Policy EN1 of the Sevenoaks District Local Plan.

4)         The first floor bedroom window in the eastern elevation shall be obscure glazed at all times and non-opening unless the parts of the window which can be opened are more than 1.7 metres above the floor of the bedroom.

To safeguard the privacy of residents as supported by Policy EN1 of the Sevenoaks District Local Plan.

5)         No development shall be carried out on the land until full details of soft and hard landscape works have been submitted to and approved in writing by the Council.  Those details shall include:-planting plans (identifying existing planting, plants to be retained and new planting);-a schedule of new plants (noting species, size of stock at time of planting and proposed number/densities); and-a programme of implementation;- details of enclosure surrounding the site;

To ensure that the appearance of the development is in harmony with the existing character of the area as supported by Policy EN1 of the Sevenoaks District Local Plan and the Sevenoaks Residential Character Area Assessment Supplementary Planning Document.

6)         If within a period of five years from the completion of the development, any of the trees or plants that form part of the approved details of soft landscaping die, are removed or become seriously damaged or diseased then they shall be replaced in the next planting season with others of similar size and species.

To ensure that the appearance of the development is in harmony with the existing character of the area as supported by Policy EN1 of the Sevenoaks District Local Plan and the Sevenoaks Residential Character Area Assessment Supplementary Planning Document.

7)         Before any equipment, machinery or materials are brought on to the land for the purposes of the development, a tree protection statement for the retained trees at the property shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Council.  Also:
A)         The means of protection shall be maintained until all equipment, machinery and surplus materials have been removed from the land.
B)         Within a retained tree protected area:
- Levels shall not be raised or lowered in relation to the existing ground level;
- No roots shall be cut, trenches cut, or soil removed;
- No buildings, roads, or other engineering operations shall be constructed or carried out;
- No fires shall be lit;
- No vehicles shall be driven or parked over the area;
- No materials or equipment shall be stored.

To secure the retention of the trees at the site and to safeguard their long-term health as supported by Policy EN1 of the Sevenoaks District Local Plan.