Agenda item - BH2011/03743 Woodingdean Business Park

Application for a variation of condition 25 of application BH2011/00362 to allow HGVs (with the exception of articulated vehicles) to enter the site and service the units.

(1)                   The Senior Planner, Aidan Thatcher, gave a presentation detailing the proposals by reference to plans and photographs. The application related to phase 4 of the business park which formed the southern boundary of the site, and it sought to vary condition 25 to allow HGVs to service the units, with the exception of articulated HGVs which would still be restricted as it was felt they would have trouble entering and exiting the site. There were no objections from the Sustainable Transport Team and the applicant had provided trucking plans. The site shared a boundary with residential units, but there was already a high level acoustic fence in situ and it was felt there would not be any additional noise or amenity impact. The application was recommended for approval.

Questions for Officers, Debate and Decision Making Process

(2)                   Councillor Hawtree asked if there was an estimate on the number of additional HGVs that would enter the site. It was explained that Officers did not have this information, but as the units were small it was unlikely they would be serviced by HGVs.

(3)                   Councillor Farrow raised concerns in relation to the potential danger to nearby residents of additional HGVs using the site. In response it was highlighted that the variation was for a very modest change, and HGVs were already able to enter the wider site. Councillor Wells stated that as a local Ward Councillor he had received no objections or concerns from residents in relation to the scheme, and he would support it. Councillor Farrow reiterated his earlier concerns and stated he would not support the application.

(4)                   Councillor Hyde stated that she welcomed the potential for additional job opportunities in the city, and she would support the application.

(5)                   On a vote of 10 in favour with 2 abstentions the variation to the condition was granted.

169.2    RESOLVED – That the Committee has taken into consideration and agrees with the reasons for the recommendation and the policies and guidance set out in the report and resolves to GRANT planning permission subject to the conditions and informatives set out in the report.