Agenda item

Planning Application Documents

Councillor Clark left the Chamber.

The planning officer presented the application as set out in the report, with a recommendation to permit, subject to conditions.

There were no public speakers.

In response to Members’ questions, the officer confirmed that:

-       he could not say what type of food trailer would be permitted at the site, and some would clearly be considered inappropriate in this setting, but could confirm that the conservation officer will need to see the details before the food trailer is agreed;

-       it would not be appropriate for the discharge of conditions application, with regard to the trailer details and implementation of cladding works,  to come back to Planning Committee for review, as this function lies with officers.  If Members are concerned about an inappropriate trailer or unattractive cladding being allowed, they should not vote in support of the application, but officers are confident that these matters can be dealt with by condition, whilst allowing the applicant a degree of flexibility;

-       when originally submitted, the application lacked detail and justification around the economic impact of not having a trailer providing refreshment  on the Trust’s ability to maintain the building and retain the visitor asset. Officers sought further information and were advised that the café had provided vital income for the Trust to maintain the building, and helped as an income stream for other Trust-run buildings and events around the town. In addition, with a lot of planned maintenance required for the Pittville Pump Rooms, some of its usual functions may be out of action, and income from the trailer is likely to help make up some of the short term loss;

-       the applicant’s submission states the intention to put tables and chairs out each day, either on the hardstanding or under the portico of the main frontage of the Pump Rooms.  No permanent seating or covered area is proposed.

Debate

In debate, Members made the following points:

-       Section 16 of the NPPF is concerned with conserving and enhancing the historic environment, and not knowing the full intention of the applicant regarding the type of vehicle and the positioning of the tables and chairs adjacent to a Grade 1-listed building is worrying – the council should be trying to preserve the outlook to the very best of its ability;

-       when the original café application came before the committee, a strong economic case was made for retention of the facility constructed during the pandemic.  Although it was relatively well obscured from most aspects it was not permitted, and since then, the Trust has been looking for ways to minimise the substantial loss of income.  Although the lack of detail is a concern, the Trust cannot propose anything more minimal than this, and residents and visitors enjoy having a refreshments area in this location;

-       although serious consideration needs to be given to the cladding and the design of the trailer, it is crucial that the Trust gets the support it needs to maintain, fund and supervise the Pump Rooms with minimal impact on its heritage and appearance, and the proposal is therefore worth supporting;

-       people want the Pump Rooms to be a destination, not just a postcard view.  The trailer will add social value, and while it is a poor alternative to a permanent café, it should be supported. 

Vote on officer recommendation to permit

6 in support, 1 against, 1 abstention

PERMIT

Councillor Clark returned to the Chamber.