Meeting documents

Members noted that since the September committee meeting the Environment Agency had confirmed their acceptance of the Thames Water assessment that there was sufficient capacity at the Little Marlow Sewage Treatment Works and therefore the proposal accorded with the relevant policies.

During the discussion concern was raised, as it had been in September, in relation to the numbers of trees that were scheduled to be removed – particularly quality TPO’d trees.  Members were informed that some discussion had taken place since September and the original number of trees to be removed had been reduced, although only by about eight.  Members noted that the new tree planting would consist of a mixture of native and non-native trees.

Highway issues were also discussed and a Buckinghamshire County Council Highway Officer explained their assessment process and conclusions.

After a lengthy debate Members voted in favour of the motion to approve the item subject to the recommendation as set out in the main report.  This included that permission be granted subject to the completion of a Planning Obligation or other agreement and that the Head of Planning and Sustainability be given delegated authority to grant Conditional Permission with the conditions provided that:

Firstly the flowing matters are resolved to his or her satisfaction in consultation with the Chairman of Planning Committee;

1.         The final report of the District Valuer on viability.

2.         A refined hard and soft landscaping and tree planting and tree protection strategy (some details may be referred to condition).

3.         A legal agreement to guarantee the offered proportion of affordable housing.

4.         The detailed design of plots 317 and 318.

5.         The provision and detailed design of, balconies and terraces to the apartments (some details may be deferred to condition).

Secondly, the following matters are secured via a Planning Obligation:

1. The provision of:
   1. Affordable Housing at the maximum level shown to be viable and not less than 25% of bedspaces
   2. Land for the construction of one form entry primary school
   3. Land and buildings for community uses
   4. Public open space

2. A commensurate contribution to the provision of:

a.  The Daws Hill to Handy Cross Transport Link

b.  Improved foot and cycle routes via Keep Hill Wood to the Rye

c.   The construction of one form entry primary school on the site

d.  Future maintenance of open spaces

e.  Seed funding for community uses

3. Provision for the dedication of key routes as public rights of way

4. Phasing requirements relating to:
   1. Construction access to the future school site
   2. Access for buses during the construction phase
   3. An interim arrangements for play space during the contribution phase
   4. Phasing of affordable housing delivery
   5. Phasing of employment floorspace delivery
   6. Phasing of community buildings delivery

5. Provision for rights of access and related rights so as not to prejudice the possible future development of Abbey Barn South.

If the Council was unable to secure above-mentioned matters via a Planning Obligation, to refuse planning permission.

            RESOLVED: that the application be approved in accordance with the officer’s recommendation.

The Committee was addressed by Mr Ken Tyson, representing the School Close Road Association Ltd, Mr Stewart Armstrong representing the Daws Hill Neighbourhood Forum and Mr Tony Fooks, representing the High Wycombe Society in objection. Mr Geoff Armstrong, the agent who responded on behalf of the applicant.