Agenda item - BH2025/02251 - Rockwater, Kingsway - Full Planning

1.    The Planning Manager introduced the application to the committee.

Answers to Committee Members Questions

2.    Councillor Shanks was informed that the retention of the huts was approved in 2025. The application was not for change-of-use. The three retail kiosks have permanent consent, and the three new cabins form the application before the committee. Users of the sauna would use Rockwater as a base to change. The management plan would cover the hours of operations.

3.    Councillor Robinson was informed that the cabins do break the line with the beach huts; however, they were in line with Rockwater.

4.    Councillor Shanks was informed that the Planning Manager was not aware of a need for a license to operate the proposed sauna.

5.    Councillor Earthey was informed that users would change in Rockwater, and the cabins would be a sauna only.

6.    Councillor Theobald was informed that the developments at the rear are currently unauthorised.

Debate

7.    Councillor Sheard considered the concept to be good, and users would decide themselves if using Rockwater for showers and toilets was a good idea.

8.    Councillor Shanks was concerned that the development was privatisation of public space, stating that building ‘creep’ was an issue. The councillor would abstain from the vote.

9.    Councillor Theobald considered the kiosks were good for food and drink, and saunas had health benefits. The councillor was disappointed there were no changing areas; however, the application was a good thing.

10. Councillor Robinson considered the application could be considered over commercialisation; however, the council needed the income and to support such projects. The councillor supported the application.

11. Councillor Parrott stated they were not a fan of Rockwater as they were not ‘good neighbours. Saunas are good for health and the applicant wanted to be community minded.

12. Councillor Cattell considered there was a need for visitors to the beach and commercial competition was not a planning matter. The councillor supported the application.

13. Councillor Earthey expressed concerns that there were no changing areas; however, the councillor supported the application.

Vote

14. A vote was held, and by 9 to 1 abstention, the committee agreed to grant planning permission.

15. 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.