Agenda item - BH2017/02482-Bowen Court, 31-35 The Drive, Hove- Full Planning

Installation of safety railings to roof.

RECOMMENDATION – GRANT

Ward Affected: Central Hove

Installation of safety railings to roof.

Officer Presentation

(1)          The Principal Planning Officer, Colm McKee, introduced the application and gave a presentation by reference to plans elevational drawings and photographs. The main considerations in determining the application related to the impact of the proposed railings on the appearance and character of the existing building, the wider Willett Estate Conservation Area and the amenities of the adjacent occupiers. It was noted that the existing railings could be seen within the streetscene, including railings to the roof of Grove Lodge which formed the adjacent purpose-built block to the north.

(2)          The railings would be situated on the roof top and would not therefore result in a harmful impact on the amenity of the flats of Bowen Court. Whilst it might result in some loss of view for the penthouse flats located to the rooftop, this was not a material consideration to this application and had not therefore been given any weight. Concerns had also been raised regarding noise disturbance from the railings in strong winds, but it had not been identified as a potential impact. An objection had raised concerns about disputes between the leaseholder and boards of directors, this was a civil matter and was also not a consideration in determining the application; approval was therefore recommended.

              Questions for Officers

(3)          Councillor Moonan sought confirmation that the replacement railings were being installed purely for safety purposes and would not enable the roof to be used as an outside garden/terrace area and it was confirmed that was the case.

(4)          Councillor Miller asked for clarification that the area relating to the two penthouse flats could also not be extended and used as a sitting out area. It was confirmed that the proposed railings would replace the existing railings in situ around the perimeter of the roof and would not enable it to be used as an outside amenity space.

              Debate and Decision Making Process

(5)          The Committee moved directly to the vote. A vote was taken and the 9 Members present when the vote was taken voted unanimously that planning permission be granted.

86.8       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 Informative also set out in the report.

              Note: Councillors Bennett, Hill and Littman were  not present at the meeting when the vote was taken.