Environment Agency Riverside Works - Planning Committee representation by Cllr Sandra Dunn

The following statement was read out to Planning Committee hearing the application from Linden Homes. This application represented a complete revision of the original plan that had been refused by the Committee and on appeal.

Firstly, I would like to thank the Chairman for the opportunity to have this statement read out at tonight's Planning Meeting when the current planning application made by Linden Homes in respect of the proposed workshop and residential development at Riverside Works, Fordbridge Road, and Sunbury is being considered.

I have read carefully both the reports that the Planning Department have issued, in connection with this development, and the following observations are the items that I consider should be debated in order to make an informed decision on this application.

The latest Planning Application has been designed in total co-operation between the Developer and the local residents and is a fine example of how the recently adopted Localism Bill is meant to work. The previous application was rejected because it was overbearing and would have seriously impacted on the lives of the local residents close to the site but the one that is being considered tonight has resolved many of the issues with regard to density etc. although any development will inevitably mean change to those living close by. I have received emails and letters both supporting the application and rejecting it so even the local community are divided in their perception of what the site, which currently houses several workshops and out-buildings, should be used for. I have remained impartial whilst reading the report, but will indicate at the end my conclusion as this site has to be developed and finding the best design and appropriate scheme is always going to be a compromise.

This Environment Agency site sits on a channel of the River Thames and also comprises of an island site and dry dock which is also owned by the EA. In order to satisfy the needs of the current owner and build a suitable development of houses it is necessary to look at the type of houses that surrounds the site. These are mainly detached bungalows and are in an area of low density housing so this has had to be taken into consideration and the density of the proposed new development is in line with this and in planning terms our policies SP2 and HO3 and the DPD of 2009 is met. Our External Advisor has also supported the affordable housing element after further discussion with the applicants and explained his conclusions in the supplementary report.

I note a transport assessment has been considered by the County Highways Authority and the parking provision for the site is slightly over the minimum requirement which is always good news as parking problems on new housing developments are normally totally inadequate. Much thought has also gone into traffic flow on and off the site and an improved foot path and the need for pedestrian crossings.

Finally, it is good to note that air quality and noise assessments have taken place and any problems identified will be reported to the meeting.

As I am not able to be present at the meeting tonight and without the opportunity of listening to the debate I am going to have to base my conclusion on the facts as they have been presented in the two reports and by applying the spirit of the Localism Bill to this scheme. I am also pleased with the way the Planning Officers have worked together with local residents and the Developer to achieve an agreement which is acceptable to everyone and would urge the committee to vote to accept this proposal.

Cllr Sandra Dunn

Halliford and Sunbury West Ward

08/04/2013