CC Town Planning have successfully won an appeal in Astcote, West Northamptonshire.
The proposal was for a single dwelling on a piece of open land, located adjacent to a previously approved scheme for 6 dwellings. The council refused permission due to the impact of the proposal on the character and appearance of the area; and to the adjacent non-designated heritage asset.
CC Town Planning put forward an argument that the appeal site no longer contributed to the character of the surrounding area, and that the proposed development would not cause any additional harm to the heritage asset than already exists from the surrounding development. In addition, given the Councils current lack of five-year housing land supply, it was argued that the presumption in favour of sustainable development should be engaged and that the benefits of the provision of an additional dwelling would outweigh the minimal harm caused.
The Inspector concluded that the proposal would not cause harm to the character and appearance of the area, and there was no compelling reason to retain the land as open space. The inspector also concluded that whilst there would be moderate harm caused to the non-designated heritage asset, the presumption in favour of sustainable development applies and the harm would not outweigh the benefits of providing an additional dwelling. On that basis the appeal was allowed, and planning permission is granted,
It was very welcome to receive a positive and balanced appeal decision, and a great outcome for the client.
