The Planning Committee of Cheltenham Council convened on Thursday, 13 June 2024, to discuss several significant planning applications. Key decisions were made regarding a tree preservation order, a residential conversion, and a unique housing development within a reservoir.

Tree Preservation Order Opposite 22 St. Margaret's Road

The committee discussed the confirmation of a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) for a London plane tree located opposite 22 St. Margaret's Road. The TPO was initially made in response to a planning application to develop the North Place car park, which would necessitate the tree's removal. The tree officer, Sam, explained that the tree is of high value, has good form, and a long life expectancy. The committee unanimously voted to confirm the TPO, thereby protecting the tree from being felled as part of the proposed development. For more details, refer to the 24-00814-TREEPO Officer Report.

Little Duncroft, Evesham Road

The committee reviewed an application for the subdivision of the plot at Little Duncroft, Evesham Road, and the conversion of an outbuilding into a separate dwelling. The application also included a retrospective request for a 1.8-metre high boundary fence. The planning officer recommended refusal, citing that the subdivision would be out of character with the existing pattern of development and that the fence design was visually harsh. Despite arguments from the applicant's agent about the need for the building to support family care and its potential use as an Airbnb, the committee voted to refuse the application. The detailed officer report can be found here.

Leckhampton Reservoir

The most debated item was the proposal to convert the Leckhampton Reservoir into a single dwelling. The unique design aimed to utilize the existing reservoir structure, minimizing environmental impact and preserving the site's character. Concerns were raised by Councillor Horwood and the Leckhampton with Warden Hill Parish Council regarding road safety, the impact on the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), and the Greenbelt. However, the planning officer highlighted that the development would not have a greater impact on the openness of the Greenbelt and would contribute positively to Cheltenham's housing stock. The committee unanimously approved the application, with conditions to ensure minimal disruption to the landscape and local ecology. Further information is available in the officer report.

Appeal Updates

The committee noted the appeal updates without further discussion. The details of the appeals lodged between May and June 2024 can be accessed here.

The next meeting is scheduled for 18 July 2024.