Proposal: Industrial redevelopment to provide x3 units within Classes E(g)ii (Research and development), E(g)iii (Industrial processes), B2 (General industrial) and B8 (storage and distribution) use, with ancillary office accommodation, new vehicular access, associated external yard areas, HGV and car parking, servicing, external lighting, hard and soft landscaping, infrastructure and all associated works following the demolition of existing buildings.

A Member queried the disparity in figures of HGV movements produced by the Highways Authority and National Highways Authority against research residents had undertaken, and the Corporate Head of Development Management and Building Control advised that the assessment of the Highways Authority had concluded even in the worst case scenario the Increase in Heavy Goods Vehicle movements during peak times was likely to be relatively modest, and whilst it would result in further increases during non-peak times (and a higher overall total number of movements across the day), sufficient capacity would be available in the road network to absorb the increase without a “severe” impact arising.  Therefore both National Highways and the Local Highway Authority (SCC) had concluded the scheme was acceptable in highways terms.

It was added that the Local Highways Authority had seen the research commissioned by residents, including its differing conclusions on differing peak hours, however this had not caused them to change their opinion.  A ratio had been applied to the impact of HGVs against cars to ensure the impact received a fair comparison to the potential lawful use of the offices at full capacity.

In response to a query about the buildings’ use as an office building fundamentally changing post-pandemic due to fewer people using offices, The Corporate Head of Development Management and Building Control highlighted that due regard had to be given to the fallback position, which could potentially mean full office use in future. Due regard must be had to lawful fallback positions in decision making.

A ward Member highlighted the impact the application had taken on local residents, many of whom had gathered in the public gallery, and felt that the local and national road network infrastructure could not support such the increase in traffic resulting from the application.

The Corporate Head of Development Management and Building Control confirmed to a Member that the cumulative impact of a large number of schemes was taken into consideration by the Highways Authority, who considered new and proposed schemes in highway modelling. These matters are also given strategic consideration in plan making.

Responding to concerns about the sustainability of the development, the Corporate Head of Development Management and Building Control advised that the developer proposed to use sustainable materials, including photo voltaic panels and air source heat pumps, whilst there would be around a 60% increase in biodiversity net gain.

Noting the National Trust’s objection to the application, the Corporate Head of Development Management and Building Control confirmed that the National Trust were not a statutory consultee, and their primary function was to represent heritage assets rather than consider the full merits of the planning application.  Planning  ...  view the full minutes text for item 632