Planning & Highways Committee - Minutes

Minutes - Tuesday, 11 March 2008

2008-03-27T04:05:00.000-07:00

FARINGDON TOWN COUNCIL
Minutes of a Planning & Highways Committee Meeting
held on Tuesday, 11 March 2008 at 7.15 pm
in the Council Chambers, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
(These are draft minutes yet to be approved by Committee)

PRESENT: Cllrs A V Hickmore (Chairman)
Mrs M J Barker
Mrs J Boulton
Miss J Farmer
D Hughes
A J T Marsden
N S O’Keeffe (from Min. 7/08)
D Price
Mrs S Vinall
Dr M L H Wise
D/Cllr Mrs A Thomson

IN ATTENDANCE: Deputy Town Clerk

1. Apologies for Absence
Apologies for absence were received from Cllr J C W Gillman.

2. Minutes of Last Meeting: Tuesday, 19 February 2008
The Minutes were signed as a correct record.

3. Matters Arising
Min 10, Old Railway Bridge, Wicklesham: Cllr Mrs Vinall noted that
Cllr Gillman had produced a very comprehensive paper and the members expressed their thanks to Cllr Gillman for his time and effort. The Deputy Town Clerk advised that this paper had now been sent to English Heritage, the organisation responsible for the listing of historic structures, and that English Heritage had indicated that it was now assessing the situation.
It was AGREED that this matter should be an item on all future agendas until such time as the matter had been resolved one way or the other.
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4. Public Question Time
No questions had been received.

5. Public Speaking Time
There were no members of public present.

6. Declarations of Interest
Cllr Price declared an interest in Planning Application GFA/18322/1 as he owned the property concerned.

7. Planning Applications to be considered:
(Cllr Price left the Council Chamber whilst this planning application was being discussed.)
GFA/18322/1 Conversion of one garage into new kitchen. Erection of first floor side extension and insertion of one additional dormer window
32 Fernham Road, Faringdon
For: Mr D Price
NO OBJECTIONS

GFA/12807/10 Amendment to Planning Permission GFA/12807/8 to GFA/12807/11-LB create two additional self contained one bedroom flats. Demolition of existing lean-to extension. Erection of new extension to rear of courtyard.
Portwell House, 27 Market Place, Faringdon
For: Mr Hugh Pakeman
OBJECT on the basis of under-provision for car parking
(At this stage it was not deemed necessary for a member to be delegated to attend the meeting of the VWHDC Development Control Committee when this application would be considered)

GFA/20443 Extension of existing steel framed structure to be used for storage and distribution
Trophy Ltd, Unit E, Old Saw Mills Road, Faringdon
For: Mr P Kinch
NO OBJECTIONS

GFA/5407/7-LB Erection of internally illuminated signage
Moss Chemist, 17 Market Place, Faringdon
For: Boots Group PLC
NO OBJECTIONS

GFA/19425/2 Erection of a replacement set of gates and boundary
Treatment
26 Coxwell Road, Faringdon
For: Mr I Fletcher
NO OBJECTIONS

V.03/08 Retention and continued use of two double relocatable buildings (ref. E227 & E228) for a further period of five years
Faringdon Community College, Fernham Road, Faringdon
For: Oxfordshire County Council
NO OBJECTIONS. However, members expressed their hope that more permanent buildings would soon be in place.

8. For Information
(a) Notification from the Vale of White Horse District Council advising that the following planning application had been withdrawn was received and NOTED.

GFA/20309 Erection of a dwelling on land Land adjoining 6 Stanford Road, Faringdon
For: Miss Jennifer Hall
(Object – Planning & Highways Meeting, 8.1.08)

(b) Work to Trees
(i) Vale of White Horse District Council Notices of Decision dated
26 February 2008 in respect of the following works to trees were received and NOTED:

1 Sudbury Court, Faringdon
Various Works
NO OBJECTION

The Vicarage, Church Lane, Faringdon
Various Works
NO OBJECTION

(ii) Overview of Vale of White Horse District Council Policy for Trees: A copy of the Executive Summary was received and NOTED.

(c) The following Temporary Road Traffic Order from Oxfordshire County Council was received and NOTED: Buckland to Faringdon – Temporary Prohibition of Through Traffic and Temporary 7.5 tonne weight restriction for carriageway resurfacing works anticipated to take approximately two weeks to complete during night time. Date of order: 31 March 2008, Coming into force: 7 April 2008.

9. Disabled Persons’ Parking Place (DPPP) – Consultation
A proposal from Oxfordshire County Council for a DPPP at Marlborough Gardens, Faringdon in response to an application from a disabled driver living in the vicinity was received and considered.
NO OBJECTIONS

10. Cleaning of Bus Shelters
Following trial cleans of the town council bus shelters by two different cleaners, one in January and the other in February 2008 (Min 12, P&H Mins 4.12.07 refers), after consideration, the Chairman proposed that Tom Wheeler be invited to clean all the Town Council bus shelters for one year commencing March 2008 on a monthly basis at a cost of £10 per bus shelter, to be reviewed after the first year. This proposal was seconded and CARRIED.

11. Proposed Residential Development, Folly Farm, Park Road
It was NOTED that authority to grant planning permission in respect of planning application GFA/19883-X, Bloor Homes, had now been delegated to the Deputy Director (Planning & Community Strategy), Vale of White Horse District Council, subject to various conditions.

12. S106 Contributions
The Deputy Town Clerk advised that no further update had been received on the applications by Town Council for S106 contributions in respect of various proposed developments in Faringdon.
However, with regard to the Bloor Homes development, a paper was tabled from the Chairman outlining a situation that had arisen regarding maintenance of the extended Country Park. It was NOTED that the District Council had now advised that the commuted sum originally agreed by the District Council with the developers under the S106 agreement for maintenance of the whole development, including the park extension, was insufficient to cover all ground maintenance costs. The Vale of White Horse District Council was therefore seeking other ways to cover maintenance costs for the extension to the Country Park and had approached the Town Council to ascertain whether it would undertake this work. Town Council has advised the District Council that it does not have the funding to do so. Concern was expressed by the members that the District Council had failed to agree a sufficient commuted sum originally and that the future of the Country Park extension, a recreational asset to the town, was under threat. The Chairman stressed that the Town Council would like to support the three Faringdon Area District Councillors in ensuring that a solution is found to this problem and also that the public should be made aware of the situation.
The Chairman proposed that the following recommendation be made to the Town Council:

That authority be delegated to the Deputy Town Clerk, in association with Cllrs Hickmore and Mrs Vinall, to issue a press release incorporating the facts as set out in the above-mentioned tabled document regarding maintenance of the country park extension, the press release to be issued to all the radio and TV stations, together with the newspapers, in the District Council area, with copies to all Town Council members, District Councillors and Ed Vaizey, MP.

This proposal was seconded and CARRIED.

13. Risk Assessment
No amendments required to be made to the current list.

14. Local Development Framework – Issues & Options Comments
A response from the Vale of White Horse District Council was received which referred to the concern expressed by the town council that the Vale Partnership, an unelected body, appeared to be involved at policy making level. It was NOTED that the response outlined the activities of the Vale Partnership and stated that the Vale Partnership did not make policy.

Minutes - Tuesday, 19 February 2008

2008-03-18T06:41:00.001-07:00

FARINGDON TOWN COUNCIL

Minutes of a Planning & Highways Committee Meeting
held on Tuesday, 19 February 2008
in the Council Chambers, Corn Exchange, Faringdon

PRESENT: Cllrs. A.V. Hickmore (Chairman)
Mrs. M.J. Barker (Vice chairman)
Mrs. J. Boulton
Miss J. Farmer
J.C.W. Gillman
D. Hughes
A. Marsden
N.S. O’Keeffe
Dr. M. Wise

In Attendance: D/Cllr. Mrs. A. Thomson
The Town Clerk

1. Apologies for Absence
Apologies were received from Cllrs. D. Price and Mrs. S. Vinall.

2. Minutes of Last Meeting: Tuesday, 29 January 2008
The Minutes were signed as a correct record.

3. Matters Arising
Cllr. Gillman reported that he had spoken to O.C.C. regarding the raised kerb at the entrance to Church Path Farm, and stated that he found them quite unhelpful. As a result he was launching a publicity campaign with the help of the Faringdon Folly in an attempt to encourage O.C.C. to remedy the situation.
Min. 3, No. 12, Meeting 13.11.07: The Clerk was asked to request the Deputy Clerk to send another reminder.

4. Public Question Time & Public Speaking Time
There were no members of public present and no questions had been received.

5. Declarations of Interest
No declarations were made.

6. Planning Applications to be considered:
GFA/20220/1 Providing new access from classified road, involving dropping the kerb and pavement
54 Coxwell Road, Faringdon
Mrs M Wallington
NO OBJECTIONS.

GFA/14696/2 Demolition of existing single storey building. Erection of a three storey block of flats and parking area
9 Butts Road, Faringdon
For: Jazzy Developments Ltd
OBJECT
The Chairman read three letters of objection from
nearby residents. Members felt that the proposal was an
overdevelopment of the site – a three storey building is
out of keeping with surrounding properties and would
result in a loss of light and privacy to adjacent residents.
Cllr. Mrs. Boulton was delegated authority to attend the
Vale’s Development Control meeting at which this
application would be considered, and for her attendance
expenses to be reimbursed as an approved duty.

GFA/19600/1 Single storey pitched roof extension to create a new kitchen/dining area and utility room
5 The Setts, Faringdon
For: Mr and Mrs M A Vail
NO OBJECTIONS.

GFA.20413 Erection of single storey rear extension
7 Folly View Crescent, Faringdon
Mr & Mrs Walsh
NO OBJECTIONS.

7. For Information
(a) The following Notices of Permission had been received from the Vale of White Horse District Council in respect of the following planning applications, and were NOTED.
GFA/5215/20-LB Installation of CCTV camera and light above existing ATM on east side of building
Barclays Bank, 14 Market Place, Faringdon
For: Barclays Bank
(No objections – Planning & Highways Meeting, 18.12.07)
GFA/5215/21-A Erection of additional fascia signage
Barclays Bank, 14 Market Place, Faringdon
For: Barclays Bank plc
(No objections – Planning & Highways Meeting, 18.12.07)

GFA/5215/22-LB Erection of additional fascia sign
Barclays Bank, 14 Market Place, Faringdon
For: Barclays Bank plc
(No objections – Planning & Highways Meeting, 18.12.07)

GFA/20328 Change of use from Class B1 to mixed Sui Generis use (Training, Education and Therapy)
3 Ram Court, Wicklesham Lodge Farm, Faringdon
For: Sarah Allen-Stevens
(No objections – Planning & Highways Meeting, 13.11.07)

GFA/20381 Erection of a two storey side extension
Coxwell House, Coxwell Road, Faringdon
For: Mr & Mrs K Kennedy
(No objections – Planning & Highways Meeting, 8.1.08)

GFA/11720/2 Erection of a rear conservatory
26 Orchard Hill, Faringdon
For: Mr R Probert
(No objections – Planning & Highways Meeting, 8.1.08)

(b) Work to Trees
(i) Notice of Intention to Undertake Works to trees at 1 Sudbury Court, Faringdon;
There were NO OBJECTIONS to this proposal.
(ii) Notice of intention to undertake works to trees at The Vicarage, Coach Lane, Faringdon
There were NO OBJECTIONS to this proposal.

8. Proposed Residential Development, Folly Farm, Park Road
The Chairman gave a verbal report on a recent site visit with the Deputy Clerk. He stated that work had commenced on the construction of a road, although a detailed planning application for the first phase had not yet been received. The Clerk was asked to ascertain from the Vale’s Planning Officers what the current position was and when the planning application was anticipated. It was NOTED that access to the Folly Park had now been improved.

9. S106 Contributions
The Clerk stated that there was no update on this matter, and was asked to contact the Vale Planning Dept. to ascertain the current situation on S.106 contributions arising from the Allen-Stevens and Hattersley sites in Park Road.

10. Old Railway Bridge, Wicklesham
Cllr. Gillman gave a verbal report concerning this bridge, which was built in 1856. It had recently come to light that Network Rail, who owned the bridge, were considering its future because it had fallen into disrepair and they were concerned for public safety as it forms part of the bridleway. Their preferred option was to fill in the void under the bridge, but Cllr. Gillman believed that the bridge should be listed as an historic structure to protect its future.
The Chairman expressed the view that a strong case would need to be made for the bridge to be listed and asked Cllr. Gillman to produce a paper for this purpose. The Clerk was asked to write to the Conservation Officer at the Vale, giving notice of the Council’s intentions and to obtain information about the listing procedure.

Minutes - Tuesday, 19 February 2008

2008-03-18T06:41:00.000-07:00

Minutes - Tuesday, 29 January 2008

2008-02-26T01:56:00.000-08:00

FARINGDON TOWN COUNCIL

Minutes of a Planning & Highways Committee Meeting
held on Tuesday, 29 January 2008 at 7.15 pm
in the Council Chambers, Corn Exchange, Faringdon

PRESENT: Cllrs A V Hickmore (Chairman)
Mrs M J Barker
Mrs J Boulton
J C W Gillman
D Hughes
A J T Marsden
D Price
Dr M L H Wise

IN ATTENDANCE: Deputy Town Clerk

1. Apologies for Absence
Apologies for absence were received from Cllrs Mrs S Vinall and
Miss J Farmer.

2. Minutes of Last Meeting: Tuesday, 8 January 2008
The Minutes were signed by the Chairman as a correct record.

3. Matters Arising
Min 3: “A” Boards: Cllr Mrs Barker asked if a reply had yet been received from the Chief Executive of the Vale of White Horse District Council but it was NOTED that this was already an agenda item.
Min 10: The Chairman stated that it was proving difficult to access information on the names of people shown on the War Memorial and that this would take some time to research. It was NOTED that both the VWHDC and the developer were putting pressure on the Town Council for suggested names as the developer was anxious to start marketing this particular site. It was AGREED, therefore, that as the names on the War Memorial were already in the public domain, the Deputy Town Clerk should be delegated to identify a name that was not already in use for submission to the VWHDC.
It was FURTHER AGREED that, in accordance with Town Council policy, a bank of up to 10 names for future use should be researched and agreed with the relevant families, where possible.
Min 12, Meeting 13.11.07: In response to an enquiry from Cllr Dr Wise the Deputy Town Clerk advised that there had not yet been any response from the VWHDC and she was asked to write to the VWHDC again seeking a response.

4. Public Question Time
No questions had been received.

5. Public Speaking Time
There were no members of the public present.

6. Declarations of Interest
There were no declarations of interest.

7. Planning Applications to be considered:

GFA/5407/6-A Erection of illuminated signage
Moss Chemist, 17 Market Place, Faringdon
For: Boots Group plc
NO OBJECTIONS

GFA/5215/23-LB Installation of three external air condenser units on rear elevation of building
Barclays Bank, 14 Market Place, Faringdon
For: Barclays Bank
DO NOT OBJECT but request that (a) the units are well maintained, (b) there is no danger of small water droplets being suspended in the air which could cause Legionnaires Disease and (c) there is no noise pollution.

GFA/7341/9 Renewal of planning permission GFA/7341/8 for the demolition of an industrial building and erection of a vehicle showroom with offices and a flat
RAC Building Yard, Park Road, Faringdon
For: RAC
NO OBJECTIONS

GFA/20409 Demolish existing roof, garage and conservatory and erection of new first floor extension with pitched roof
and garage
23 Coxwell Road, Faringdon
For: Mr & Mrs Cauldecourt
NO OBJECTIONS

GFA/1048/3 Erection of a single storey side and rear extension
1A Gravel Walk, Faringdon
For: Mr John Dilelia
(2 letters of objection were received and considered)
OBJECT on the basis of overdevelopment and infringement of the space for No. 3 Gravel Walk.

8. For Information
(a) The following Notices of Permission were received from the Vale of White Horse District Council in respect of the following planning applications and NOTED:-

GFA/20134/1 Demolition of 8 No existing garages at rear of Nos 35- 49 Folly View Road. Erection of 2 No one-bedroom flats with associated car parking, landscaping works and improvements to existing site access road
(Re-submission)
35-49 Folly View Road, Faringdon
For: Mr D Robinson
(Do not object – Planning & Highways Committee Meeting, 4.12.07)

GFA/4858/12 Erection of new 2 storey, 3 bedroom dwelling to the rear of 56 Lechlade Road
Plot 1, 56 Lechlade Road, Faringdon
For: Mr W Hitchcock
(No objections – Planning & Highways Committee Meeting, 2.10.07)

(b) Unauthorised Display of “A” Boards, Banners and other Street Furniture: A letter dated 10 January 2008 was received from the Chief Executive, Vale of White Horse District Council. This was written in response to the concern expressed by the Town Council that it had not been involved in any policy making issues that affected local communities. It was NOTED that the Chief Executive regretted the Town Council’s disappointment in this matter and that he had passed its comments to the Deputy Director for Community and Spatial Planning, asking him to emphasise the importance of appropriate engagement.

(c) VWHDC Local Development Framework Issues and Options Comments Form – November 2007: A letter dated 9 January 2008 was received from the Planning Consultant on behalf of Rogers Concrete Ltd enclosing a copy of representations submitted to VWHDC. This letter brought to light the fact that the Town Council had never received copies of the above document and therefore had not had the opportunity to submit any comments to the VWHDC by the deadline of end December 2007. It had, however, now been agreed by the VWHDC that it would still accept comments from the Town Council by 30 January 2007. Draft comments tabled by
Cllr Hickmore were considered and AGREED for submission to the
VWHDC.
It was FURTHER AGREED that a copy of the Town Council’s comments form should be sent to Rogers Concrete together with an invitation to them to attend a future meeting of the Planning & Highways Committee in order to give a presentation in respect of the proposed residential redevelopment of their site.

(d) Work to Trees
The following Decision was received from the VWHDC and NOTED:

Pollarding of 15 Avenue Lime Trees
Location: Faringdon Estates, Faringdon House, Church Street, Faringdon
NO OBJECTION

9. S106 Contributions
It was NOTED that no further information had been received regarding these contributions. However, Town Council had learnt that although Bloor Homes were experiencing some problems with the Environmental Agency regarding water retention issues in respect of the proposed development in Park Road, Bloor Homes were hoping to start the site set up and works on 4 February 2008.

Minutes - Tuesday, 29 January 2008

2008-02-14T05:28:00.000-08:00

Minutes - Tuesday, 18 December 2007

2008-01-10T01:31:00.000-08:00

FARINGDON TOWN COUNCIL

Minutes of a Planning & Highways Committee Meeting
held on Tuesday, 18 December 2007 at 7.15 pm
in the Council Chambers, Corn Exchange, Faringdon

PRESENT: Cllrs A V Hickmore (Chairman)
Mrs M J Barker
Mrs J Boulton Miss J Farmer
J C W Gillman
A J T Marsden
D Price
Dr M L H Wise

IN ATTENDANCE: Deputy Town Clerk

1. Apologies for Absence
Apologies for absence were received from Cllrs D Hughes and Mrs S Vinall.

2. Minutes of Last Meeting: Tuesday, 4 December 2007
The Minutes were signed by the Chairman as a correct record. The Deputy Town Clerk was congratulated for the accurate minutes she had produced for what had been a difficult meeting.

3. Matters Arising
Min 7, Planning Application GFA/19649/2; The Deputy Town Clerk confirmed that she would advise Cllrs Dr Wise, D Hughes and Mrs Barker of the date when the VWHDC Development Control Committee would be considering this planning application as soon as this date was known;
In answer to a query from the Chairman, the Deputy Town Clerk advised that there had been no response to date from the Vale of White Horse District Council in respect of the S106 contributions sought by the Town Council in respect of this proposed development.
Min 3, Planning Application GFA/20134/1; The Deputy Town Clerk, in response to an enquiry from the Chairman, confirmed that the VWHDC had been advised of the Town Council’s comments in respect of possible root damage in the future.
Min 8(b), P&H Meting 13.11.07; The Chairman brought to the attention of the members a copy of a letter dated 11 December 2007 sent from Mr Weaver of the VWHDC to the Faringdon Chamber of Commerce regarding the unauthorised display of “A” boards, banners and other street furniture. The members expressed their concern that yet again Mr Weaver had written to an unauthorised body and not the Town Council in this regard and the Deputy Town Clerk was requested to write to the Chief Executive of the VWHDC accordingly.

4. Public Question Time
No questions had been received.

5. Public Speaking Time
There were no members of public present.

6. Declarations of Interest
There were no declarations of interest.

7. Planning Applications to be considered:

GFA/20370 Change of use from residential to mixed use
Mill House, 12 Stanford Road, Faringdon
For: Mr C Gilmour
DO NOT OBJECT but feel it is important that odour filtration should be included as a condition of any permission that may be given.

GFA/5215/22-LB Erection of additional fascia sign
Barclays Bank, 14 Market Place, Faringdon
For: Barclays Bank plc
NO OBJECTIONS

GFA/5215/21-A Erection of additional fascia signage
Barclays Bank, 14 Market Place, Faringdon
For: Barclays Bank plc
NO OBJECTIONS

GFA/5215/20-LB Installation of CCTV camera and light above existing ATM on east side of building
Barclays Bank, 14 Market Place, Faringdon
For: Barclays Bank plc
Cllr Miss Farmer expressed her concern that the installation of CCTV camera was intrusive and unnecessary. The Chairman called for a vote as to whether the members had any objections to this planning application. The result of the vote was 7 in favour of no objections and 1 against.
VWHDC to be advised that the Town Council has no NO OBJECTIONS.

8. For Information
(a) Notices of Permission were received from the Vale of White Horse District Council in respect of the following planning application and NOTED:-

GFA/20069/1 Insertion of rear dormer window
59 Folly View Road, Faringdon
For: Mr and Mrs Pugh
(No objections – Planning & Highways Committee
Meeting, 13.11.07)

GFA5215/19-LB Erection of replacement signage
Barclays Bank, 14 Market Place, Faringdon
For: Barclays Bank
(No objections – Planning & Highways Committee Meeting, 23.10.07)

GFA/5215/18-A Erection of replacement signage
Barclays Bank, 14 Market Place, Faringdon
For: Barclays Bank
(No objections – Planning & Highways Committee Meeting, 23.10.07)

9. Validation Checklists to Accompany Planning Applications
In a response to a letter from the Town Council raising its concerns that the forms appeared overcomplicated for small matters such as house extensions, it was NOTED that the VWHDC had advised that the requirements for householder applications, for example, would include only a few of the matters referred to in the Guidance Notes.
A further letter dated 7 December 2007 was received from the Vale of White Horse District Council regarding the Standard National Planning Application Form – IAPP. It was noted that the VWHDC would be going live with the new IAPP application form on 21 January 2008 and that the new forms could be submitted electronically via the Planning Portal. Concern was expressed by the members regarding the problems that may be encountered with the submission of plans if these had also to be submitted electronically. Although the members assumed that the application forms could be submitted electronically and the plans submitted in hard copy, the Deputy Town Clerk was asked to write to the VWHDC to seek their confirmation that this was, in fact, the case.

10. Street Name – New Development at 26 Coxwell Road, Faringdon
A letter was received from the VWHDC in which it asked the Town Council to consider a suggestion from the developer for the above development to have the street name of FERN HILL PLACE. As it is Town Council policy to ask for streets to be named after people listed on the War Memorial, after seeking appropriate permission from the families concerned, the members objected to the above name and the Deputy Town Clerk was requested to write to the VWHDC accordingly.

11. Taxi Rank, Market Place, Faringdon
Cllr Miss Farmer stated that she had been approached by a local taxi driver who had informed her that there was no taxi rank in the centre of Faringdon and she wished this matter to be discussed. The Chairman advised the members that Thames Valley Police, in response to a query from the Deputy Town Clerk, had stated that when the Traffic Order was changed in 2004, the agreement was that any taxi could use the two Bus Stands in the Market Place, not to be confused with the Bus Stop where the Stage Coach Service stops. He further stated that there were two stands, one by the Town Hall entrance and the other in London Street but that unfortunately, the Regulations did not allow them to be marked for both Community Bus and Taxi, so they just appear as Bus Stops. It was AGREED that the taxi drivers should have a copy of this information from Thames Valley Police and the Deputy Town Clerk was requested to send a copy to all the local taxi firms as well as to the Community Police.

12. S106 Contributions
No further news on S106 contributions had been received and the Deputy Town Clerk was asked to chase up the various issues in this regard.

13. VWHDC Consultation – Open Space, Sport and Recreation Provision Strategy and draft Supplementary Planning Document
It was NOTED that no councillor, apart from the Chairman, had yet read this document and the Chairman again stressed its importance. A copy was available in the Town Council office and could also be obtained through the VWHDC website.

14. Dropped Kerb
Cllr Gillman asked the members to consider the installation of a dropped kerb at the top end of London Street where the old pillars and the gate to the Folly are located. At present, there is a raised kerb which needs to become a full width dropped kerb both for tractors and vehicles to access the Folly and Church Farm. It was AGREED that this request should be forwarded to both the Traffic Advisory Committee and Oxfordshire County Council for consideration.

Minutes - Tuesday, 4 December 2007

2008-01-04T02:43:00.000-08:00

FARINGDON TOWN COUNCIL

Minutes of a Planning & Highways Committee Meeting
held on Tuesday, 4 December 2007 at 7.15 pm
in the Council Chambers, Corn Exchange, Faringdon

PRESENT: Cllrs A V Hickmore
Mrs M J Barker
Mrs J Boulton
Miss J Farmer
J C W Gillman
D Hughes
A J T Marsden
M L H Wise

IN ATTENDANCE: 7 members of public
Deputy Town Clerk

1. Apologies for Absence
Apologies for absence were received from Cllrs Mrs S Vinall and Mr D Price.

2. Minutes of Last Meeting: Tuesday, 13 November 2007
The Minutes were signed by the Chairman as a correct record.

3. Matters Arising
Min 3: Stone Gateway Feature: In response to a query from Cllr Mrs Barker, the Deputy Town Clerk advised that a reply was still awaited from the Planning Officer.
Min 12: In response to a query from Cllr Dr Wise, the Deputy Town Clerk advised that the letter to the Vale of White Horse District Council had been sent but to date there had been no response.

4. Public Question Time
No questions had been received.

5. Public Speaking Time
No member wished to speak at this stage of the meeting.

6. Declarations of Interest
There were no declarations of interest.

7. Planning Applications to be considered:

GFA/19649/2 Approval of reserved matters for residential development (35 units) with new access (Approved Application GFA/19649/1)
Land adjoining Coxwell House and Winslow House, Coxwell Road, Faringdon
For: Cotswold Gate
One letter of objection was received.
Members of the public were invited to speak at this stage. A resident from Tollington Court to the east of the proposed new development objected strongly to this application and asked for the Town Council’s support.
He stated that he had been experiencing difficulty in being able to discuss this application with the planning officer concerned at the Vale of White Horse District Council. The proposed buildings at the east end of this development, most of which were 3 storey, completely overlooked his property and took away any privacy he and his family had. This was despite reassurance from the District Council that this would not happen. He requested that the properties bordering the east boundary be turned round with blank walls facing his property.
A representative of FAR (Faringdon Association of Residents), who was also a resident in Carters Crescent which would be affected by this proposed development, expressed deep concern that this development comprising 3 storey houses was being built on a ridge which would mean the development reaching heights of between 45’-50’. This would create an eyesore, especially considering that this was on an entrance road into Faringdon and was not in keeping with the area.
He wished to comment further that:
· car parking was insufficient;
· the bund was planted with three trees which would take at least 30 years to grow to any height;
· as permission had been received for the construction of an access road and junction to serve the allocated housing site and re-alignment of Coxwell Road he felt that the developer, in order to recoup this expenditure, was seeking to maximise the number of units that could be put on the site;
· local residents had been assured that the majority of the buildings would be 2 storey whereas in fact out of 35 units, only 8 were 2 storey with the remaining 27 being 3 storey;
· the houses would be lower that the development on the other side of Coxwell Road from which water drained into the area of the proposed development. There would therefore be an issue of pumping water away.
Another resident from Tollington Court also endorsed the comments made by the previous two speakers, ie increased density, loss of privacy and significant change to the area.

Following consideration of this application by the members, it was AGREED to

OBJECT on the following grounds:-
height of the proposed buildings (too high);

orientation of the buildings at the east end (would be better if they were turned around to avoid overlooking neighbouring properties in Tollington Court);
density;
sewerage and water services (how are these going to be provided for in a part of Faringdon where difficulties are already experienced with water pressure);
lack of sufficient car parking in an enclosed estate where there is no opportunity for parking elsewhere;
access and egress (located on a brow, as well as also being on a bend, which would make it difficult for cars to turn into the development );
highway will be higher than the footpath; maintenance of the footpath is therefore an issue.

Cllrs Dr Wise, D Hughes and Mrs Barker were delegated to speak on behalf of the Town Council at the meeting of the VWHDC Development Control Committee at the time it considers this planning application.

In view of the size of this development, it was AGREED that S106 contributions should be sought towards improvements of the following areas:-.
Tucker’s Park £30,000
Town Park £20,000
Oakwood Park £10,000
Marlborough Gardens (fence off from road) £15,000
Development of Corn Exchange £20,000
Development of Pump House £20,000

Total £115,000

GFA/20134/1 Demolition of 8 No existing garages at rear of Nos. 35- 49 Folly View Road. Erection of 2 No one-bedroom flats with associated car parking, landscaping works and improvements to existing site access road (Re- submission)
35-49 Folly View Road, Faringdon
For: Mr D Robinson
DO NOT OBJECT . However, it should be pointed out to the District Council that the development is close to trees in Tuckers Park; therefore, adequate measures should be put in place before building commences to avoid any possible problems that may occur in the future with root damage from the trees..

8. For Information
(a) Notices of Permission were received from the Vale of White Horse District Council in respect of the following planning application and NOTED:-

GFA/2130/2-LB Alterations to existing party wall between 23 and 24 Market Place and alterations to passage ceiling/display area structure. Works include forming new doorway and new link structure above passage.
23 and 24 Market Place, Faringdon
For: Mr and Mrs P Johnson
(Do not object – Planning & Highways Committee
Meeting, 23.1.0.07)

GFA/14702/1 Erection of a rear extension
46 Folly View Road, Faringdon
For: Mr and Mrs Gardiner
(Planning & Highways Committee did not consider this application as it was never received either at the Town Council Office or the local VWHDC office. VWHDC has been advised)

GFA/19497/2 Demolition of existing garage and outbuildings. Erection of single storey side extension and car port.
20 Westland Road, Faringdon
For: Mrs S Baxter
(No objections – Planning & Highways Committee Meeting, 13.11.07)

(b) Rogers Concrete Limited, Sands Hill, Faringdon
Notice from VWHDC that a Certificate of Lawful Use had been granted as applied for was received and NOTED.

(c) A copy of a document from Oxford Consultants for Social Inclusion
(OCSI) dated December 2006 outlining Faringdon was received and
NOTED

(d) A copy of Oxfordshire County Council’s proposed Permanent Traffic Order to introduce permitted 1 hour waiting in the lay-by forming part of Coach Lane, Faringdon adjacent to the cemetery was received and
NOTED

9. Validation Checklists to Accompany Planning Applications
It was NOTED that the Government was in the process of introducing new national standard planning application forms, called 1APP, which would become statutory from 6 April 2008. VWHDC was currently consulting on its Validation Checklist Guidance Notes and the committee was asked to comment on these. The notes were approved on the whole although it was felt that for small matters like house extensions, these appeared overcomplicated and it was suggested that perhaps there should be a simpler checklist for such instances.

10. S106 Contributions
The Chairman stated that monies due from Bloor Homes would not now be paid to the Town Council as soon as the work commenced in respect of Planning Application GFA/19883. However, they could pay one of the £80,000 contributions before development commences, with the remaining
contributions paid before the occupation of the 50th dwelling built on the site.
The Chairman further advised that the Venues Committee had agreed by a majority vote that the £80,000 should be spent on the development of the Pump House. It was NOTED that the District Council would not be receiving any money prior to the commencement of development.

11. VWHDC Consultation – Open Space, Sport and Recreation Provision Strategy and draft Supplementary Planning Document
Cllr Alan Hickmore tabled a comprehensive report outlining the objectives of the two documents which were significant. It was NOTED that the SPD should be read in conjunction with the VWHDC Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy as well as the VWHDC Adopted Local Plan 2011.

The SPD set out in clear terms the expectations of the Vale from any new
development (from one house upwards) to the impact on recreation provision. He recommended that members took the time to read both documents in detail. The Deputy Town Clerk was asked to retain a copy in the committee file for reference whenever a significant planning application was made and also that Recreation & Open Spaces Committee retain a copy. It was also important to ensure that any section 106 applications included the criteria outlined.
It was AGREED that these were very comprehensive documents and that congratulations should be forwarded accordingly to the VWHDC.
A copy of the Chairman’s report would be available in the Town Council’s office for reference, if required.

12. Cleaning of Bus Shelters
It was NOTED that £750 had already been included in the 2008/09 budget for
the cleaning of bus shelters. However, as there was £200 remaining in
the 2007/08 budget, quotes from various companies were considered for
carrying out this work. It was proposed, seconded and CARRIED that the
Deputy Town Clerk be delegated to invite T Wheeler to carry out a trial clean
of the bus shelters for January 2008 and J Barnes a trial clean for February
2008, both of whom had tendered a monthly charge of £60 (£10 per shelter). A final decision would then be made in March 2008.

Minutes - Tuesday, 4 December 2007

2007-12-20T06:57:00.000-08:00

Minutes - Tuesday, 13 November 2007

2007-12-14T05:47:00.000-08:00

FARINGDON TOWN COUNCIL

Minutes of a Planning & Highways Committee Meeting
held on Tuesday, 13 November 2007 at 7.15 pm
in the Council Chambers, Corn Exchange, Faringdon

PRESENT: Cllrs A V Hickmore (Chairman)
Mrs M J Barker
J C W Gillman
D Hughes
A J T Marsden
Dr M L H Wise
D/Cllr Mrs A Thomson (from Min. 8)

IN ATTENDANCE: Deputy Town Clerk

1. Apologies for Absence
Apologies for absence were received from Cllrs D Price and Mrs S Vinall.

2. Minutes of Last Meeting: Tuesday, 23 October 2007
The Minutes were signed by the Chairman as a correct record.

3. Matters Arising
Min 3: Stone Gateway Feature, Park Road –In response to the Town Council’s letter to the Vale of White Horse District Council via JET seeking clarification on this matter, the Deputy Town Clerk stated that she had now been advised that this matter had never been discussed at JET but was, in fact, being dealt with by the Vale of White Horse District Council (VWHDC) Planning Officer in conjunction with other various planning applications along Park Road. It was NOTED that a reply was now awaited from the Planning Officer.
Min 3: A Brief Guide to Local Development Frameworks: It was confirmed that all members had received a copy of this.
Min 13: It was NOTED that the VWHDC had advised the applicant that it considered the area to be a useful amenity area and that it was unwilling for the area to pass into private ownership.
Min 17: It was NOTED that the VWHDC Technical Officer for Waste Management had advised that she would be establishing (a) where the litter was emanating from and (b) if a suitable place could be located for a bin to be installed.

4. Public Question Time
No questions had been received.

5. Public Speaking Time
There were no members of public present.

6. Declarations of Interest
There were no declarations of interest.

7. Planning Applications to be considered:

GFA/20324 Erection of a two storey rear extension
52 Ferndale Street, Faringdon
For: Miss R Mullen & E Pallot
NO OBJECTIONS

GFA/20328 Change of use from Class B1 to mixed Sui Generis use (Training, Education and Therapy)
3 Ram Court, Wicklesham Lodge Farm, Faringdon
For: Sarah Allen-Stevens
NO OBJECTIONS

GFA/20069/1 Insertion of rear dormer window
59 Folly View Road, Faringdon
For: Mr & Mrs Pugh
NO OBJECTIONS

GFA/8059/4 Erection of a steel container for storage use
Tucker Park, Park Road, Faringdon
For: Faringdon Town Football Club
NO OBJECTIONS

GFA/19497/2 Demolition of existing garage and outbuildings. Erection of single storey side extension and carport
20 Westland Road, Faringdon
For: Mrs S Baxter
NO OBJECTIONS

GFA/9205/3 Chimney installation for wood burning stove
Walnut Barn, Walnut Court, Faringdon
Dr Perry Morrison
NO OBJECTIONS

8. For Information
(a) A Notice of Permission was received from the Vale of White Horse District Council in respect of the following planning application and NOTED:-

GFA/9539/3 Approval of reserved matters for the relocation of existing garage and erection of 3 detached dwellings with access alterations and car parking (GFA/9539/2-X)
25 Coxwell Road, Faringdon
For: Hodson Development Ltd
(No objections – Planning & Highways Committee Meeting, 11.9.07)

(b) A VWHDC media release was received regarding the move by the VWHDC to keep town centres and surrounding areas free of unauthorised advertising signs. It was NOTED that this media release was dated 22 August 2007 but only received by Town Council on 2 November 2007. A copy of the Guide for Advertisers was also enclosed and it was FURTHER NOTED that this would be available in the Town Council office for reference purposes.

9. S106 Contributions
(a) Notes of an informal meeting held on 5 November 2007 between representatives of the VWHDC and the Town Council were received and considered. It was NOTED that the VWHDC officers had indicated that the monies due to the Town Council under the S106 agreement would be paid to the Town Council as soon as the work commenced in respect of Planning Application GFA/19883 – Housing Development along Park Road. This was anticipated to be March 2008.

The Chairman stated that, as part of the S106 agreement, £15000 had been allocated for a car parking survey in Faringdon. As this money fell within the remit of the Planning & Highways Committee, the Deputy Town Clerk was asked to research companies or academic institutions that may be able to carry out such a survey and to bring this information to the next meeting of the Planning & Highways Committee. At that stage the matter would be discussed in more detail in order to draw up a brief outlining the requirements of the survey. It was AGREED that £15,000 for the car parking survey should be included in the 2008/09 draft budget.

It was FURTHER NOTED that whilst the VWHDC had found the West Berkshire Council S106 Supplementary Planning Guidance of interest, as there was likely to be a change in the law very soon which could move some way towards this format, the VWHDC felt it best to wait to see how the law was changed before progressing further.

(b) Proposed development of commercial land located on the north side of Park Road between the petrol station and the A420:
Members discussed possible suggestions for S106 contributions in respect of the above proposed development. D/Cllr Mrs Thomson raised her concern about the play area in Marlborough Gardens which it was felt should be fenced off from the road to avoid accidents and suggested that perhaps this was an area which would benefit from S106 money. The Chairman advised that this area had been assessed by VWHDC in conjunction with The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (ROSPA) and that the site had been deemed not to be dangerous.

Following discussion, it was AGREED that the following suggestions should be submitted to the VWHDC Planning Officer for possible inclusion in the current ongoing S106 considerations in respect of this proposed development.

Faringdon Community Bus £30,000
Uffington Community Bus £10,000
Stanford-in-the-Vale Community Bus £10,000
Faringdon Christmas Lights £10,000
Bus Shelters x 2 £ 7,000
Development of conference facilities at
rear of Pump House £80,000
Provision of Radio Mast (reception in Faringdon
currently very poor)

(c) The members revisited Planning Application GFA/19230 – 5B Lechlade Road, Faringdon (planning permission granted 13 October 2005). It was NOTED that the site was now completely remediated but it was uncertain as to whether it had been sold. It was AGREED that if S106 negotiations had not yet been concluded, Faringdon Town Council would like to be involved and that the VWHDC should be advised accordingly.

10. Regional Spatial Strategy for the South East
(a) As part of the informal meeting between VWHDC representatives and Town Council representatives held on 5 November, the current position with the Regional Spatial Strategy for the South East was discussed. It was NOTED that the proposals that have so far been put forward are currently under consideration by the Government Office for the South East and SEERA and that a full consultation process will start in January 2008.

The Chairman stated that at the meeting VWHDC had agreed that both VWHDC and Faringdon Town Council should work together closely in putting forward a joint proposal for housing development, employment expansion and recreational growth in Faringdon over the next 20 years.
(b) Local Framework Development: The Chairman referred to the Brief Guide to Local Development Frameworks previously circulated and stated that it was important that town council also had its own strategy. He referred to the Planning & Highways Committee Vision for Faringdon originally drawn up in January 2005, highlighting in particular objective No 3 which stated “to establish a thriving commercial sector through use of the planning process and through development of housing and population to a level that will provide enhanced employment opportunities”. It was AGREED that this vision and all its objectives were still relevant to the committee’s work.
It was AGREED that it was important that new building developments were built in suitable locations appropriate to Faringdon.

11. VWHDC Consultation – Open Space, Sport and Recreation Provision Strategy and draft Supplementary Planning Document
It was AGREED that the Chairman be delegated to consider these consultation documents and to report back with any comments to the next meeting of the Planning & Highways Committee. It was FURTHER AGREED that these documents should also be passed to Recreation and Open Spaces Committee for its comments. It was NOTED that the deadline for comments to be submitted to VWHDC was 14 December 2007.

12. Folly Farm Development – Planning Application GFA/19883
Cllr Mrs Barker stated that at a recent meeting of the Town Council’s Climate Change Working Party, it had been noted that the developer had indicated that he would be happy to make the houses more environmentally friendly but that this request had to come from the District Council. Members agreed that all new developments should be carried out to the highest environmental standards, including use of rainwater, solar heating, etc and that this was an opportunity with the current two new proposed developments to ensure that every effort was made to achieve these standards. The Deputy Town Clerk was requested to write a letter to the relevant Planning Officer asking if an appropriate instruction could be issued from VWHDC to the developer to ensure the houses were built to the highest possible environmental levels.