The Planning and Regulatory Committee of Mole Valley Council met on Wednesday 26 June 2024 to discuss several significant planning applications and proposals. Key decisions were made on the Chiddingfold Storage Depot, the former Brockhurst Care Home, and the former Auriol Junior School playing field. Additionally, the committee reviewed changes to the code of best practice and delegated authority for planning enforcement.

Chiddingfold Storage Depot

The committee discussed a minerals and waste application for the Chiddingfold Storage Depot, which involved the erection of two extensions to Building A. The larger extension, already developed, would be used for additional storage of automotive parts, while the smaller extension would provide office and amenity space. Concerns were raised about noise, visual impact, and traffic, but the proposal was ultimately approved with conditions to address these issues. Councillor Catherine Powell noted the importance of the additional condition to ensure road safety.

For more details, refer to the Aerials - Chiddingfold Storage and Plan 1 - Chiddingfold Storage.

Former Brockhurst Care Home

The committee reviewed an outline application for the redevelopment of the former Brockhurst Care Home in Ottershaw into an extra care housing facility. The proposal included a part three and part four-storey building with up to 51 units. Local residents expressed concerns about the building's height and overbearing nature. Councillor Scott Lewis highlighted the need for better consultation with residents. The committee approved the application, subject to conditions and further consultation on the detailed design and landscaping.

Further information can be found in the Item 8 - 17-06-24 FINAL committee report Brockhurst and Update Sheet - Former Brockhurst Care Home 260624.

Former Auriol Junior School Playing Field

The committee considered an outline application for the development of the former Auriol Junior School playing field in Worcester Park into an extra care housing facility with 93 units. The proposal included a part one and part three-storey building. Councillor Eber Kington raised concerns about public transport and the impact on local infrastructure. The committee approved the application, with conditions to ensure consultation with local stakeholders on the mitigation of the loss of open land.

Details are available in the Item 9 - Salisbury Road Officer report FINAL FOR COMMITTEE and Update Sheet - Former Auriol School 260624.

Code of Best Practice and Delegated Authority

The committee reviewed and agreed to retain the changes to the code of best practice for planning, with amendments to increase the number of public speakers and the time allotted for local members. Additionally, the committee approved changes to the delegated authority for planning enforcement to improve efficiency and resilience.

For more information, see the Item 10 - PR constitutional changes June 2024 and Item 11 - Committee Report Constitution Changes Final Clean Version.

The next meeting of the Planning and Regulatory Committee is scheduled for 24 July 2024.