The Planning Committee of Chichester Council met on Wednesday 12 June 2024 to discuss various planning applications and related matters. Key decisions included the refusal of a planning application for a site on Newells Lane, West Ashling, and the approval of a revised drainage scheme for a site in Singleton.

Public Conveniences, Tower Street, Chichester

Miss Haigh presented the report on the proposed demolition of public conveniences on Tower Street, Chichester. The committee discussed the proximity of other public conveniences in the area, including those at the Novium Museum and Chichester Cathedral. Concerns were raised about the lack of replacement toilets. Mrs Stevens assured the committee that the council intended to replace the toilets and that the demolition would not occur until after the summer period. The committee resolved to delegate the decision to officers following the expiry of the consultation period.

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Field West of Beachlands Nursery, Newells Lane, West Ashling

Miss Haigh outlined the application for a site on Newells Lane, which had previously been dismissed at appeal due to nitrogen concerns. These concerns had now been addressed. Despite officer recommendations to permit, the committee voted to refuse the application, citing dominance over the settled community as the primary reason. Mrs Stevens cautioned that this reason for refusal was not sound and could lead to costs being awarded against the council.

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Land East of Rownberts, Woodmancote Lane, Emsworth

Miss Haigh presented the report on the application for a site on Woodmancote Lane. The committee discussed the local connection of the applicant and the drainage issues at the site. Despite concerns about the sustainability of the location and the impact on the landscape, the committee voted to refuse the application, citing breaches of the Westbourne Neighbourhood Plan and the unsustainable location.

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Oakacres Cottage, Trotton Road, Elsted

Mr Price presented the report on the proposed extension to Oakacres Cottage. The committee discussed the design and use of timber cladding. Despite some support for the proposal, the committee voted to refuse the application, citing concerns about the design and subservience of the extension to the existing property.

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Schedule of Planning Appeals, Court and Policy Matters

The committee noted the reports on the schedule of planning appeals, court, and policy matters for both Chichester District Council and the South Downs National Park Authority.

Read the Chichester District Council report Read the South Downs National Park Authority report

Other Matters

The committee noted the schedule of contraventions and confirmed there were no late items or part two items to discuss.