The East & South Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee met on Tuesday 03 February 2026, with Councillor David Moore in attendance. The committee considered two planning applications, ultimately refusing one and approving the other.

PL/25/0354/FA - Boveney Court Farm, Boveney Road, Dorney, Buckinghamshire

The committee refused planning permission for the demolition of an open-sided barn, conversion, alteration, and change of use of existing buildings to provide 12 residential units at Boveney Court Farm. This decision was made contrary to the officer's recommendation. The refusal was based on the grounds that the proposal did not meet the Golden Rules outlined in paragraph 156 of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). Specifically, the committee cited concerns regarding the provision of affordable housing and the lack of new or improved public green spaces. Members acknowledged that while the tilted balance principle might apply due to the council's inability to demonstrate a five-year housing land supply, the adverse impacts of granting permission were considered to significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits when assessed against the NPPF as a whole.

The application had been deferred from a previous meeting. The officer's recommendation was to grant planning permission subject to conditions and the satisfactory completion of a planning obligation for financial contributions towards affordable housing and healthcare. However, the committee, led by Councillor S Wilson and seconded by Councillor C Caesar, voted to refuse the application. Councillors K Ashman and C Caesar, who were ward members for the area, declared interests but stated they would speak as members of the committee with an open mind. Councillor Frances Kneller substituted for Councillor Mohammed Fayyaz.

The detailed reports for this application highlighted significant concerns raised by Dorney Parish Council regarding flood risk and life-safety, with the Environment Agency noting a danger of loss of life for the general public during flood events. There were also extensive discussions and differing opinions on the financial viability of the development, with independent viability reviews suggesting a deficit that would preclude affordable housing contributions. The ecological impact, particularly on bats, and the Green Belt considerations were also significant factors in the previous refusal and appeal dismissal.

PL/25/4751/FA - 59 Old Town Close, Beaconsfield HP9 1LF

The committee approved a part-single, part-two storey side and rear extension, along with the installation of a first-floor flank window and the re-siting of existing solar panels and rooflights at 59 Old Town Close, Beaconsfield. The officer's recommendation for conditional permission was accepted.

The proposal was considered acceptable as it was deemed not to harm the appearance of the house or the surrounding area, nor cause any loss of light, privacy, or outlook for neighbours. There were no concerns raised regarding parking or ecology. Councillor Jackson Ng declared a prejudicial interest as the applicant was his own planning application and left the room before this item was discussed. The application was referred to the committee because the applicant is a Buckinghamshire Councillor.

The decision was proposed by Councillor M Tett and seconded by Councillor S Wilson.

The next meeting of the East & South Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee is scheduled for 3 March 2026.