2560256
The development consists of: the retention of the part-constructed two-storey dwelling house (as permitted under Reg. Ref. 06/2306 and Reg. Ref. 16/218, with unauthorised works also carried out); and permission for the completion of the structure with a revised design layout and a change of use to a sheltered housing scheme comprising 6 No. single-occupancy sheltered housing units; decommissioning of the existing wastewater treatment system and percolation area and provision of new wastewater treatment system and percolation area; hard and soft landscaping; and all associated site and development works above and below ground. The completed scheme will have a total gross floor area of 703 sq m.
Core Refusal Reason
The proposal constitutes unsustainable, ad-hoc development in a rural area lacking essential infrastructure, which is contrary to settlement policies directing sheltered housing toward established towns and villages and poses a significant traffic safety risk.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The development is located in a rural area outside defined settlement boundaries, which is contrary to policies SCP 10 and HSP 4 that direct residential care and sheltered housing into towns and villages to ensure proximity to services and amenities.
- The proposal would set an undesirable precedent for multi-unit residential developments in the open countryside, militating against the preservation of the rural environment and leading to the uneconomic provision of public services and communal facilities.
- The subject site is served by a substandard road network (L16129) lacking footpaths, cycle paths, and public lighting, and the restricted sightlines at the access point would create a hazard to public safety by reason of traffic.