The Planning Committee of Bath and North East Somerset Council met on Wednesday 25 September 2024, determining several planning applications. Key decisions included the permission of a supported living development on Land To The Rear Of 89 -123, Englishcombe Lane, Southdown, Bath, and the refusal of an outline application for nine residential dwellings at Hartley Wood, King Lane, Clutton.

Applications for Planning Permission

Land To The Rear Of 89 -123, Englishcombe Lane, Southdown, Bath

The committee granted permission for the erection of 16 supported living units (Use Class C3(b)) with an associated communal hub, access, landscaping, and ancillary works. This development, located on land allocated for residential use in the Local Plan, aims to provide specialist accommodation for individuals with autism spectrum disorder and learning difficulties. The proposal was noted to be a smaller scheme than a previously approved one for the site, with a strong emphasis on sustainable construction and ecological enhancements. Numerous conditions were attached to the permission, covering aspects such as biodiversity net gain, construction management, landscape design, and materials.

Chalfont, Charlcombe Lane, Lansdown, Bath

Permission was granted for the erection of two detached houses with garages and home offices, following the demolition of the existing house. The committee noted that the design, scale, and materials were considered to be in keeping with the character of the area, and that the development would not cause significant harm to residential amenity. Conditions were imposed, including the requirement for obscure glazing in bathroom windows and adherence to landscaping proposals.

Hartley Wood, King Lane, Clutton, Bristol

Outline planning permission for the erection of nine residential dwellings was refused. The primary reasons for refusal were the isolated countryside location of the site, its inaccessibility by sustainable transport modes, and its conflict with local planning policies and the Clutton Neighbourhood Plan, which prioritises development within housing boundaries and for affordable housing needs. The Highways Officer also objected due to the lack of sustainable travel options.

48 Hillcrest, Pensford, Bristol

Permission was granted for the erection of two bungalows. The site is located within the Green Belt but was considered to be a suitable case for limited infilling. The bungalows were deemed to be of an appropriate scale and design, not causing significant harm to residential amenity or the character of the area. Conditions were attached, including the removal of permitted development rights to prevent future extensions or alterations.

21 Darlington Place, Bathwick, Bath

Permission was granted, with officers delegated authority to permit the application subject to additional conditions. The application involved the demolition of a conservatory and the erection of a two-storey side extension, along with other associated works. Concerns were raised regarding the impact on the conservation area and the setting of nearby listed buildings. The decision to delegate authority allowed for further consideration of conditions relating to window materials, a tree planting scheme, and a construction management plan.

Town Mills, Mill Road, Radstock

Permission was granted for the conversion of a vacant ground floor office into a two-bedroom flat, with a flood refuge at first-floor level. The application also included a change of use for a vacant shop to office use and a communal cycle store, and a change of use for the external yard to residential use only. The site is located in Flood Zone 3, but the Environment Agency raised no objection subject to specific mitigation measures being implemented and secured by condition.

11 Richmond Road, Bath

This application for the erection of a three-bedroom dwelling on land to the rear of the property was withdrawn from the agenda and will be considered at the next meeting.

37 Coombend, Radstock

Permission was granted for the approval of reserved matters concerning an outline application for the erection of five dwellings. The committee considered the design and scale of a standalone dwelling, as well as access arrangements. Objections were raised by Radstock Town Council regarding the design and materials, and the need for infrastructure contributions. The decision was to permit the application subject to conditions.

24/01160/FUL - 11 Richmond Road, Bath

This application was withdrawn from the agenda and will be considered at the next meeting.

24/01168/REG03 - Land To The Rear Of 89 -123, Englishcombe Lane, Southdown, Bath

Permission was granted for the erection of 16 supported living units (Use Class C3(b)) with an associated communal hub, access, landscaping, and ancillary works. This development is intended for individuals with autism spectrum disorder and learning difficulties. The committee noted the significant local interest and concerns raised regarding flooding, ecological impact, and access, but ultimately granted permission subject to numerous conditions.

24/00523/FUL - Chalfont, Charlcombe Lane, Lansdown, Bath

Permission was granted for the erection of two detached houses with garages and home offices, following the demolition of the existing house. The committee considered the design, density, amenity impacts, and green infrastructure. Conditions were imposed, including the requirement for obscure glazing in bathroom windows and adherence to landscaping proposals.

23/04243/OUT - Hartley Wood, King Lane, Clutton, Bristol

Outline planning permission for the erection of nine residential dwellings was refused. The reasons for refusal included the isolated countryside location, lack of sustainable transport options, and conflict with local planning policies and the Clutton Neighbourhood Plan.

23/02251/FUL - 48 Hillcrest, Pensford, Bristol

Permission was granted for the erection of two bungalows. The site is within the Green Belt but was considered suitable for limited infilling. Conditions were attached, including the removal of permitted development rights to control future alterations.

24/01947/FUL - 21 Darlington Place, Bathwick, Bath

Permission was granted, with officers delegated authority to permit the application subject to additional conditions. The application involved the demolition of a conservatory and the erection of a two-storey side extension, among other works. The decision allowed for further consideration of conditions related to window materials, tree planting, and construction management.

24/00319/FUL - Town Mills, Mill Road, Radstock

Permission was granted for the conversion of a vacant ground floor office into a two-bedroom flat, with a flood refuge at first-floor level. The application also included changes of use for a vacant shop to office use and a communal cycle store, and for the external yard to residential use. The Environment Agency withdrew its flood risk objection subject to specific mitigation measures being implemented.

New Planning Appeals Lodged, Decisions Received and Dates of Forthcoming Hearings/Inquiries

The committee noted the report on new planning appeals lodged, decisions received, and dates of forthcoming hearings and inquiries.