Agenda item - BH2024/00309 - Land Adjoining the Farriers, 24G Hythe Road, Brighton - Full Planning

1.    The Case Officer introduced the application to the committee.

Speakers

2.    Ward Councillor submitted a speech which was read out to the committee: I have been asked by residents in Hythe Road to object to this planning application. The original planning application in 2014, which never mentioned subdividing this building - was first turned down because it was felt that the developer was trying to fit too many properties into the site, I do hope you will take this into account when considering approving planning permission for this development. One of the main concerns about this is that new owner of the site is: https://www.houseofsnaps.co.uk/developments  who as you can see specialises in turning old buildings into Air B&B properties. The previous owner confirmed to the resident that the developer told him that his plans were to convert the stable building and part of number 24 into AirBnB’s. The development of holiday rentals in residential areas should not be encouraged as the noise and disruption it creates for those who have to live alongside them in what is already a densely populated area. If this planning application is approved could there be a stipulation that they cannot be turned into AirBnB’s. Please can you look at the safety implications of this application and that Emergency Services will not be impeded to the development at the back of this development.

3.    Paul Joyce addressed the committee as the agent acting on behalf of the applicant and stated that the application was for a two-bed house, which had been reduced to a one bed on this brownfield site. The site was previously a garage. The price point was good. The objections were based on the wrong information, as there would be no overlooking. There would be 1m access through to the rear. The development was for a house not an AirBnB, which will add to the housing stock.

Answers to Committee Member Questions

4.    Councillor Thomson was informed by Paul Joyce that the intention was to sell the house on the open market not to be used for AirBnB. The Planning Manager noted that a holiday let would be sui genus use so would require planning permission. It was noted that the applicant’s portfolio was 60/40 short term lets and the remaining were homes for sale. They considered owner occupier was best for this site.

5.    Councillor Allen was informed that if the property were used for a short term let, then enforcement action could be taken.

6.    Councillor Theobald was informed by the case officer that the width of the extension was 2.4m and 3m with the garage door.

Debate

7.    Councillor Shanks considered that an extra house would be good.

8.    Councillor Allen considered more housing was good.

9.    Councillor Theobald noted the space standards were met.

Vote

10. A vote was taken and by 7 to 2 the committee agreed to grant planning permission. (Councillor Galvin took no part in the discussions or the decision-making process).

11. RESOLVED: That the Committee has taken into consideration and agrees with the reasons for the recommendation set out in the report and resolves to GRANT planning permission subject to the Conditions and Informatives in the report.