Issue - meetings

This report provides an update on Permitted Development Rights for Solar and Photovoltaic (PV) Panels.

Resolved: That;

                             i.        The City of York Council support steps to reduce

carbon emissions within this city;

                            ii.        The content of the report be noted and that officers continue to review options for suitable products for solar power in conservation areas and on historic buildings and to update the council website accordingly and take appropriate steps to publicise changes to permitted developments;

                          iii.        Comments made at this meeting be included in consultation on the Carbon Reduction, Renewable Energy and Sustainable Design and Construction SPD.

Reason:     To recognise the importance of the commitment to tackle climate change and maintain transparency to the public, and the feed comments made at the meeting into ongoing SPD’s.

The Executive Member considered a report outlining current  Permitted Development Rights for Solar and Photovoltaic (PV) Panels. The Head of Development Services introduced the report, stating that in most cases, given the provision of permitted development rights, residents and businesses in York would be able to install Solar and Photovoltaic Panels without requiring formal planning permission. Utilisation of Permitted Development rights to install PV panels is something the Council is keen to encourage the usage of. There are a number of factors in which permission might be required. Each application is considered on its own merits and its impact on both the property and surrounding area which will vary on a case by case basis.

In response to questions from the Executive Member, the Head of Development Services confirmed:    

·        That there was a correction to the report page 80 paragraph 8 (of the agenda pack). ‘In 2018 the Council received 16.no applications which included Solar or Solar PV equipment either as a standalone proposal or which were incorporated into a larger proposal. Planning permission was granted for 14 of these applications, 1 planning application and 1 Listed Building Consent (at the same site) were refused due to the impact of the proposal on a heritage asset.’

·        The process undertaken when an application is made in a conservation area. Confirming if amendments could be made that would allow the application to be accepted then discussions will be held with the applicant, if this is not the case then the application will be rejected.

·        For household applications there is a 8 week decision target for applications. This can be extended if agreed with the applicant.

·        Development Managers track applications including to make sure they are remaining within the 8 week decision target deadline.

·        The department continue to monitor new products in a variety of ways, including ones that maybe more sympathetic in conservation areas.

·        That relevant guidance and examples of best practice could be included on the council’s website.

The Executive Member welcomed the report and noted that it is important to show the council’s commitment to tackling climate change. He also noted that the historic nature of a house does not preclude renewables.  

Resolved: That;

                             i.        The City of York Council support steps to reduce

carbon emissions within this city;

                            ii.        The content of the report be noted and that officers continue to review options for suitable products for solar power in conservation areas and on historic buildings and to update the council website accordingly and take appropriate steps to publicise changes to permitted developments;

                          iii.        Comments made at this meeting be included in consultation on the Carbon Reduction, Renewable Energy and Sustainable Design and Construction SPD.

Reason:     To recognise the importance of the commitment to tackle climate change and maintain transparency to the public, and the feed comments made at the meeting into ongoing SPD’s.