The meeting focused on various planning applications, including the conversion of residential properties into flats and HMOs, as well as a significant housing development. The most contentious issue was the proposed development at Hall Hill Cottage, which faced objections primarily due to traffic and safety concerns.

Hall Hill Cottage Development

Proposal

• Change of use from residential dwelling to children's care home.
• Erection of a single-storey rear extension.

Objections

• Traffic and Safety: Concerns about increased traffic and road safety, particularly at the junction of Tamworth Road and Fivefield Road.
• Wildlife and Environment: Potential negative impact on local wildlife and greenbelt.
• Amenities: Lack of local amenities and public transport.
• Healthcare and Education: Strain on local healthcare and educational facilities.

Council's Response

• Traffic and Safety: Updated speed surveys show reduced speeds due to new speed enforcement measures. Visibility splays and vegetation management will address safety concerns.
• Wildlife and Environment: Biodiversity net gain of 78% for habitats and 13% for hedgerows.
• Amenities: Contributions towards public transport improvements, including an extended bus service and demand-responsive transport.
• Healthcare and Education: Section 106 contributions secured for healthcare and education.

Decision

• Approved with conditions, including a requirement for the development to come back to the planning committee at the reserved matters stage for final approval of layout and housing types.

Conversion of Residential Properties

Properties

• 37 Daventry Road
• 88 Station Street West
• 12 St. Elizabeth Road
• 14 Elms Road

Proposals

• Conversion of single dwelling houses into two one-bedroom flats.
• Erection of rear dormers and associated alterations.

Council's Response

• Principle: Acceptable under housing policies.
• Design: Dormers not visible from the street scene.
• Parking: No increased parking requirement.
• Space Standards: All rooms meet the nationally described space standards (NDSS).

Decision

• All applications were approved unanimously.

HMO Conversion

Property

• 16 Middlecoates

Proposal

• Change of use from a three-bedroom dwelling house to a four-bedroom HMO.

Objections

• Parking: Concerns about insufficient parking and increased pressure on street parking.

Council's Response

• Parking Assessment: Showed 26% availability of parking spaces within 200 meters of the site.
• HMO Density: Within the acceptable limit of 10% within 100 meters.

Decision

• Approved unanimously, despite concerns about parking.

Conclusion

The meeting addressed various planning applications, balancing the need for housing and community facilities with concerns about traffic, safety, and local amenities. The council approved all applications, with conditions to ensure compliance with local policies and standards.