Agenda item

A major full application for a residential development of 87 dwellings and associated access and infrastructure. [Huntington and New Earswick Ward] [Site Visit]

Members considered a major full application submitted by Mr. Paul Butler, for a residential development of 87 dwellings with associated access and infrastructure.

Officers circulated a Committee update, the main points of which were:

·        Two additional letters of objection had been received from local residents. The letters made similar points to those summarised in paragraph 3.14 of the committee report, with the addition of reference to the poor design of the proposed houses, the lack of the ‘Cambridge’ design which is an affordable housing type and that the small existing trees to the north of the site should be retained.

·        Suggested condition 2 in the committee report did not contain a list of suggested approved plans as they were still being finalised, these were now available.

·        An additional condition is proposed to cover the location and design of a sub-station and pump station which are required to be located on the site.

Members then went on to question the officers on a number of points, including:

·        The provision of a crossing on New Lane and where it is proposed to be located. Officers advised that this matter will be subject to further discussion with the applicant and highways officers and a consultation.

·        The retention of the hedgerow along the boundary of New lane and whether there will be a condition to stipulate how the hedge will be maintained. Officers advised the Section 106 would include a management plan to cover this.

Jay Everett spoke on behalf of Portakabin. He advised that they had concerns about how the scheme could impact on their operations both now and in the future. He felt that noise generated by Portakabin may impact upon residents at the site and the concern was based on issues that had arisen with residents that already live nearby. He welcomed the work that Barratts had undertaken to mitigate against noise but suggested that the building of a bund along the boundary with Portakabin would be useful.

Paul Butler spoke on behalf of Barratt Homes. He advised that the development will provide homes and jobs for York and will protect the ecological value of the site. Barratts are working to find a solution with Portakabin regarding noise, however the Council’s Environmental protection Unit are satisfied with the suggestion of a 3 metre high acoustic barrier and green planting.

Members went on to question a number of points including:

·        The advantages and disadvantages of a fence over a bund. Officers explained that a bund would affect the value of the grassland due to its width, therefore a fence is preferable.

·        The significance of the grassland. The Council’s Countryside Officer responded to advise that there is less than 100 hectares of that type of grassland left in York and that the applicant has been working with officers to ensure that as much as possible is retained.

·        The Environmental Protections Officers opinion on the potential for noise nuisance. It was confirmed that EPU are satisfied with a fence and can not foresee a problem with noise. Any future noise issues would be dealt with appropriately.

Following further discussion it was:

RESOLVED:                That the application be approved subject to the Section 106 agreement.

REASON:                     In the opinion of the Local Planning Authority the proposal, subject to the conditions listed in the report.