Erection of new single storey glass extension to form kitchen/dining area linked to existing building; new paved terrace

The proposal was for the erection of a single storey glass extension to form a kitchen and dining area linked to the existing building as well as the laying of a paved terrace. The proposed extension would extend to the rear and side of the house infilling between the existing dining room and kitchen and would be located on the site of the existing terrace.

The site was in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Flood Zones 2 and 3, the Metropolitan Green Belt and was adjacent to a site of Nature Conservation Interest. It was a Grade II Listed Building.

Officers considered that the proposed development would represent appropriate development within the Metropolitan Green Belt which would not have a detrimental impact upon the Grade II listed Building, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Area of Archaeological Potential, adjacent Site of Conservation Interest or be detrimentally impacted upon by the flood zone. The proposed development would protect the historic character and setting of the listed building.

The Committee was addressed by the following speakers:

Against the Application:       Mrs. Chambers

For the Application:              Mr. West

Parish Representative:         Cllr. Jolley

Local Member:                      -

In response to a question the public speaker for the application clarified that the area wall to be removed from the kitchen was a more recent element. Lighting was to come from 4 corner spot LED lights akin to mood lighting.

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

It was noted a Members’ Site Inspection had been carried out.

A condition was added to the motion that no irreparable damage be done to the main structure of the original building, except for the newer elements, so that it is protected.  Another condition would be added that the lights be downward and inward facing in order to minimise light pollution.

Concern was raised that the extension was large, unsympathetic to the existing building and the local area. The open glass would allow light pollution.

Other Members felt the design allowed a clear distinction between the original building and the extension, a style used by English Heritage. It allowed the property to be useable and useful. The extension was small and discreet.

The motion was put to the vote and it was –

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 materials to be used in the construction of the development shall be those indicated on the approved plan E12019PP108 unless otherwise agreed by the Local Planning Authority.

To maintain the integrity and character of the listed building as supported by EN1 of the Sevenoaks District Local Plan.

3)         The development hereby permitted shall be carried out in accordance with the following approved plans: E12019PP101, 106b, 107b, 108, 109b, 110, 111a

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

4)         No development shall begin until details of flood proofing of the conservatory have been submitted to and approved in writing by the Council. Any proposed scheme shall then be completed in accordance with the approved details before the first use of occupation of the development.

In the interests of flood alleviation and to meet sustainability objectives.