Issue - meetings

Outline application for the erection of sheltered accommodation, an extension to the Elderly Mentally Frail unit, residential development, relocation of the existing bowling green and provision of a new access road and car parking.

Members considered an outline application, submitted by the Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution, for the erection of sheltered accommodation, extension to the Elderly Mentally Frail unit, residential development, relocation of the existing bowling green and provision of a new access road and car parking (revised scheme). (Ref: 05/0022/OUT)

Officers updated that an error had been made in informing neighbours about the site visit and committee date, and advised Members that it would not be appropriate to consider the application. Apologies were expressed to all concerned that the correct procedures had not been followed.

Officers also updated that the Applicant had submitted revised proposals and had asked for the plan to be substituted. Officers from Planning and Legal Services advised Members that it would be appropriate to defer the application, in order to allow for consultation on the revised proposal and for Officers to consider the changes and revise the report.

Some Members raised concerns that the Applicant had submitted revised proposals at a late stage before the meeting as this was unfair to objectors.

Members requested that it be noted that they raised concerns that the Applicant had submitted revised proposals at such a late stage. Members requested that a letter be written to the Agent for the Applicant requesting an explanation of their actions.

Members of the public who had registered to speak on the item all agreed to defer their right to speak until the application was considered again by the committee.

RESOLVED:             (i)            That the application be deferred to a future

meeting.

(ii)               That a letter be written to the Agent for the Applicant requesting an explanation for the submission of revised proposals, at such a late stage before the meeting.

REASON:                  To ensure full consultation on the revisions submitted by the Applicant.