Issue - meetings

Defer

Mr Sims introduced the application.

Additional information was reported on the agenda update sheet relating to comments from the Economic Development Team, amendment to the site history and an amendment to recommendation.

The following members of the public addressed the Committee:

Mr Trevor Bennett – Objector

Mr Marcus Green – Supporter

Mr David Gerrie – Supporter

Mr Ben Price – Applicant

During the discussion members sought clarification on a number of points.   Mr Sims responded that the comments from Economic Development were given as a professional opinion.  Mr Sims confirmed that Economic Development considered that there was a demand for B1 premises and the loss of this unit would remove the opportunity for a light industrial business to move into the premises.  Mr Sims explained the report acknowledged the benefits as debated by the Committee, but that there was a clear conflict in relation to the aims which policy 26 was established to achieve.  Mr Sims advised that in conclusion the application failed to comply with the policy, and even taking the material considerations into account, did not outweigh the requirements of policy.  Mr Sims confirmed that three full-time members of staff and three part-time members of staff were employed by the business.

A proposal was made to permit the application which was seconded.  Mrs Golding confirmed that the officers could settle conditions but advised that the period for compliance for representation had not yet closed and that should the Committee wish to permit the application there would be a requirement to defer it until the end of the consultation period.  Mr Whitty added that there may also be a requirement to advertise a departure from the Local Plan, but that officers would consider this matter further. 

Recommendation to defer until the end of the consultation period.