Cllr Glynn on the access to Gatcombe Farm.

3. Public Participation

Mr P Coleman and Mr J Smith of CMS Bath Ltd presented further proposals in relation to the Gatcombe Farm site. It was reported that they have now met with planning officers at NSC for discussion on the outline proposals.

They explained that various options are being considered – for example, whether to include up to four live/work units, and the best way of using the area in the lower corner of the site – this could be small B1/B2 commercial units, or additional dwellings. Additional woodland planting is envisaged, and an open ‘heath’ area to be left in a natural state.

The use of natural materials in the construction of the buildings would also help the buildings to weather and blend in with the surroundings. It would be necessary to improve the access to the site – this gave rise to some concerns with regard to drainage in that part of West Hay Road.

In conclusion, Mr Coleman stated that his company have tried to take a fresh approach to the site and have now reached the point where they will need to submit a formal planning application in the fairly near future. It was agreed that the Parish Council would discuss the proposals and respond with its views within the next three weeks.

The Chairman thanked Mr Coleman and Mr Smith for their presentation, and they left the meeting at 7.08 pm.

Cllr Phillips and Cllr Ledbury made their apologies and also left the meeting at this time.

4. Minutes of previous meeting

The minutes of the meeting held on 11th March were reviewed and signed without amendment.

5. Matters arising:

a. Caravan parked in The Triangle - the Clerk said that she had reported this to the PCSO, who will investigate.

b. Request to NSC for guidance on the policy in relation to replacement windows – Cllr Glynn is working on this.

6. NSC South Area Planning Committee

The next meeting is scheduled for 16th April, therefore no papers are available as yet. Cllr Bigg queried whether the BIA walkway application would come up at the meeting. Cllr Glynn said he understands that the South Area Committee may pass the issue to the full Council. Cllr Bigg said she would probably be attending the meeting to observe; she felt it was likely that the matter would go to judicial review.

Cllr Glynn said that the Parish Council should write to NSC to express disappointment that the amended drawings had only just been received that morning. He also said that he would review the amended plans and comment if appropriate.

7. Decisions Notices issued by NSC

These were reviewed. It was noted that the upvc replacement windows in Cambridge Court had been approved. Once again, this was felt to be inconsistent.

8. Planning Applications

08/P/0677/WT – 31 Garstons Close – Tree works: it was agreed to make no comment.

08/P/0639/F – Ashley House, Silver Street – erection of single-storey side/rear extension to form new kitchen/garden room. It was noted that the application refers to an ‘existing’ second storey which does not currently exist, although planning permission has been granted. It was felt that there was no objection in principle, however there is concern that the drawings submitted depict the property incorrectly as it exists, and that therefore the application is misleading. It was also agreed to point out that there was flooding in Silver Street in January 2008, not far from this property, and there are concerns about any development in the area which might contribute to increased risk of flooding. It was agreed to recommend that John Inman be asked to comment on the proposals with particular reference to flooding risk.

08/P/0671/F – Valley View Cottage, Redhill – application for permanent residential use of static caravan as an annexe to the dwelling. It was agreed to object to the proposal, on the grounds that the location is in Green Belt, and it is open to views to the south. In addition, no details of the proposed caravan have been provided, in terms of size, colour, or nature of the finish.

9. Other Planning Issues

a. It was noted that there was no further information with regard to the former chemist’s shop in Silver Street.

b. Cllr Dunn Morua mentioned that a wall is being constructed alongside the stream at 31 Garstons Close, presumably as a defence against flooding. There was some concern that if other residents whose properties border the stream took the same action, this could lead to increased flooding further downstream.

There being no other business the meeting closed at 7.43 pm.

Mr. D W Glynn
Chairman