Officer Planning Report

Planning Report And Recommendations {{table:101142}} {{table:101143}} {{table:101144}} {{table:101145}} ### Considerations {{table:101146}} ### Written Representations We have received 2 private representations for this application. ### Consultations

Officer's Report

The application seeks approval for the erection of a two-storey stable/storage block onto an existing stable block located to the rear of a large detached dwelling in Bride.

Objections have been received to the planning application on the basis of size and the related burning of material. I have to advise that the burning of material is not a material planning consideration and if it is causing a statutory nuisance should be controlled by environmental health legislation.

The site has previously been the subject of two applications (98/1152 and 98/2303) for similar development. PA 98/1152 was essentially refused on the grounds of being too big and PA 98/2303 was refused on the grounds of size and potential future use. However, the decision to refuse PA 98/2303 was made on appeal by the Minister and was contrary to the recommendation of the appointed Planning Inspector. Accordingly, I would suggest that the planning history raises some difficulties in determining this application. However, having examined the previous applications I would tend to agree with the conclusions of the appointed Planning Inspector.

On a general level whilst the keeping of horses for pleasure or for participation in equestrian sport does not specifically fall within the definition of agriculture it is generally accepted as a rural activity that can only take place in the countryside. Having visited the site I would suggest that the determination of the planning application rests on two issues - the visual impact of the proposed structure on the amenity of the surrounding countryside and the potential for future use for other than the purposes stated in the application. The applicant has given assurances that they are very serious about equestrian pursuits and do not wish to run an equestrian school from the site.

Given the size of the proposed development I accept that it would be visible from some public vantage points. However, as the proposed development is set against an existing outbuilding and to the rear of the large detached dwelling I would suggest that this impact does not constitute an unacceptable or unwarranted visual intrusion into the open countryside. With regard to future use I accept that the building is likely to be there beyond the lifetime of the current generation but do not consider a future apprehension to be a material planning consideration in this instance. The dimensions of the proposed building do not readily lend themselves to easy conversion to habitable accommodation, the use should be appropriately conditioned and any change would require further planning approval.

In conclusion I recommend that the application be approved subject to the imposition of planning conditions.

Recommendation

Recommended Decision : Permitted

Date of Recommendation : 29.03.2005

Conditions and Notes for Approval / Reasons and Notes for Refusal

C : Conditions for approval N : Notes attached to conditions R : Reasons for refusal

• : Notes attached to refusals

C 1. The development hereby permitted shall commence before the expiration of four years from the date of this notice.

C 2. This approval relates to the location plan and drawing no.s 100, 100A, 101A, 103 and 103A date stamped the 10th January 2005.

C 3. The building shall be used solely for stabling and associated storage.

Decision Made : ... Committee Meeting Date : ...