Agenda item - BH2021/04303 - 13 Cuckmere Way, Brighton - Householder Planning Consent

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

Speakers

2.       Ward Councillor Meadows addressed the committee and stated that there were different site levels within the vicinity. The dormer window does not appear overlarge when considering the living space and no neighbours have objected. There are many dormers in the area. The side windows could be obscure glazed to reduce impact. The site sits well in the streetscene. The councillor requested that the committee use common sense and grant planning permission as policy can prevent families getting what they want.

Answers to Committee Member Questions

3.       Councillor Yates was informed that the dormer guidance was still available to builders and the SPD guidance was still in place. It was noted that the case officer had reached out to the applicant and found the applicant not amenable to changes such as extending the ground floor.

Debate

4.       Councillor Ebel stated they were not against development and requested the applicant come back with a more harmonious design.

5.       Councillor Theobald noted no neighbours objected and there would be no overlooking as the property was opposite grassland. The councillor had no problem with the development.

6.       Councillor Yates considered the dormer bulky and excessive, and visible from the South Downs. The development was against the SPD. The councillor supported the officer recommendation and requested the committee refuse the application.

7.       Councillor Littman considered the application would reduce the visual amenities of the area and on balance supported the officer recommendation.

Vote

8.       A vote was taken, and by 5 to 1 the committee refused planning permission.

9.       RESOLVED: That the Committee has taken into consideration and agrees with the reasons for the recommendation set out in the report and resolves to REFUSE planning permission for the following reasons:

1. The proposed rear dormer and hip to gable extension would present as an unsympathetic, oversized and dominant addition to the property that would have a harmful impact upon the appearance of the dwellinghouse, semi-detached pair and wider area, contrary to Brighton & Hove Local Plan policy QD14, Submission Brighton & Hove City Plan Part Two policy DM21 and guidance contained within SPD12.