Address:       Land rear and side of Hampden House, Hitchin Road, Arlesey, SG15 6RS

Outline Application – A residential development of up to 58 dwellings including all ancillary works on land to the rear and side of Hampden  House, Hitchin Road, Arlesey with all matters reserved except access following the demolition of the existing buildings on the site.

Applicant:     GPS Estates Ltd

The Committee had before it a report regarding Planning Application No. CB/18/00196/OUT an outline application for a residential development of up to 58 dwellings including all ancillary works on land to the rear and side of Hampden House with all matters reserved except access following the demolition of the existing buildings on the site at Land to rear and side of Hampden House, Hitchin Road, Arlesey, SG15 6RS.

There were no public speakers or additions in the late sheet.

Committee Members discussed the following points:

•           A concern of the Town Council over loss of employment land was discussed. The Planning Officer reported that the current buildings have become unlettable due to new EPC Regulations making them too expensive to bring up to standard.

•           The proximity of the proposed dwellings to the cement works raised questions over noise issues. The Planning Officer said the developer has gone through noise testing and this will be addressed through conditions and scrutinised at the reserve matters stage.

•           The loss of HGV movement within the area was seen as a positive and balanced against the new vehicle movements which would be a consequence of the new dwellings.

•           It was noted that MANOP had not been consulted on this application, it was agreed to consult them at reserve matters stage.

•           Members agreed that this was not a very ‘green’ application and asked planners for an informative to make it as green as possible and that reserve matters should include provision for electrical vehicle charging points at every parking space.

•           Members agreed to move as set out with the additions of the green informative and that reserve matters application should include provision for electrical vehicle charging points at every parking space.

On being put to the vote for APPROVAL, 10 voted in favour, 1 against and 1 abstention.

RESOLVED

That the Planning Application No. CB/18/00196/OUT at Land to rear and side of Hampden House, Hitchin Road, Arlesey, SG15 6RS, be approved as set out in the schedule attached to these minutes.