Agenda item

Change of use to wellness retreat (Sui Generis) alongside residential use (Class C3).

Defer

Mr Price introduced the report to the Committee. He outlined the site location and explained that property was accessed by a single-track lane which was shared by the Foresters Pub and six other dwellings. He explained that the application sought permission for a change of use for the applicant to develop a Wellness Centre in the Sussex Barn on a part-time basis, as well as permission for Bed and Breakfast accommodation to be provided in association with that use. He confirmed that there would be no physical changes to either building.

Mr Price drew the Committee’s attention to the Agenda update sheet which included an addendum to the plan on page 163; an addendum to the report at paragraph 8.13; further Officer Comment in respect of paragraph 8.13 and an addendum to the recommendation on page 175; which should read as ‘Delegate to Officers’ and an amendment to Condition 6.

Representations were received from;

Cllr Tony Piedade – Kirdford Parish Council

Mr Anthony Brooks – Objector (statement read by Mrs Fiona Baker)

Mrs Meanock – Supporter

Cllr Adrian Moss – speaking on behalf of Ward Member Gareth Evans

Ms Lucy Connor - applicant

Officers responded to Members comments and questions;

On the issue of permitting the application on a temporary basis; Mr Price confirmed that this was a feasible option but advised that if the Committee were minded to accept the application on a temporary basis then they should defer the application and bring it back to Committee. In addition, Mr Whitty advised that if the Committee were minded impose a temporary condition this must be reasonable as the authority may face costs if an unreasonable impact is caused to the applicant.

On the issue of the property being used as an Airbnb property; Mr Whitty confirmed that so long as the property was being occupied as a single dwelling it can be advertised for Airbnb.

On the matter of water neutrality, Mr Whitty confirmed that the correct approach had been taken by officers when considering the application. He explained that it was not felt the application has any material impact as the potential water use at the property and associated buildings is already established and could be significant.

With regards to how water usage is monitored; Mr Whitty explained that Natural England prepare the methodology that predicts water demand, however, it cannot be fixed to individual usage. 

On the matter of electric car charging points; Mr Price confirmed that there were electric vehicle charging points on site, he was unaware of any further ecological enhancements.

Following a vote the Committee dismissed the report recommendation to Permit.

Mr Barrett proposed that the application be deferred, so that officers can negotiate a temporary application with the applicant, and to seek greater clarity on the access lane and water usage at the site. The proposal was seconded by Mr Potter.

In a vote the Committee agreed to defer; the application for the reasons set out by Mr Barrett in his proposal.

Recommendation; defer; to allow officers to negotiate a temporary application with the applicant, and to seek greater clarity on the access lane and water usage at the site.

*Mrs Sharp left the meeting at 3.20pm