Agenda item

To consider a report by the Chief Planning Officer which seeks the demolition of a bungalow and the erection of a block of four, two bedroom flats at 5 Crescent Gardens, Alwoodley, Leeds, LS17 8DR.

(Report attached)

The report of the Chief Planning Officer sought permission to demolish the existing dwelling that occupied the site and to construct a two storey block of four flats.

The application was brought to Panel at the request of Councillor Cohen as it was his view that the proposal would be harmful to the character and appearance of Crescent Gardens and that the increased quantum of residential units would have a detrimental effect on highway safety and decrease accessibility for emergency vehicles. Councillor Cohen also raised matters of overdevelopment and inadequate parking provision.

The proposed two storey block of apartments would comprise of 4 x 2 bedroom units; two the ground floor and the remaining two at first floor level. Each unit would have open plan dining, kitchen and living areas. Each unit would also have a house bathroom and an en-suite.  Externally there would be provision for 8 parking spaces to the front of the site and amenity space to the rear.

Members noted an alteration at 2.3 of the submitted report that access would not now be through a front lobby but by doors at the side of the flats.

Members also noted an extra condition to be added at 10.7 of the submitted report in relation to future and finish of floor levels.

Members were informed of a late objection with regard to parking on Crescent Gardens. The objector had proposed restricted permit parking for current residents of Crescent Gardens but not for residents of the proposed flats. Members were of the view that this should not be considered.

Members were informed that the applicant had agreed in principle to change the construction and materials of the bin stores so that they did not impact on neighbours.

Members were reminded of a scheme which had been granted permission close by.

The Panel were informed that there was to be significant landscaping to the car parking area at the front with semi- mature hedging to be planted this would be incorporated into the conditions. The hedge would be better for the street scene blending with neighbouring properties.

Members had been on a site visit earlier in the day and were shown plans and 3D drawings at the meeting. Members did request more detailed drawings of the internal layout.

Mr Cook the agent was at the meeting and informed the Panel that the rooms exceeded the National Space Standards with 79 square metres for the upper floors and 70 square metres for the lower floors. It was noted that the roof lights were for sole use of the upper floor flats.

Members discussed the changing demographics of the area.

Members were satisfied that any issues of noise had been addressed.

RESOLVED – That Members granted permission as set out in the submitted report and additional conditions to cover:-.

·  Finished floor / ground levels

·  Cycle parking provision to be lockable and secure

·  Clarification that condition No. 4 is to include the planting of a semi-mature hedge at the front of the property