Councillors intervene to give fresh hope for planning applications deemed “unsustainable” by Fenland officers

Proposed site for new workplace home (Image: Archant)

In Chatteris the intervention of Councillor Alan Melton prompted fresh thinking for a two storey, four bedroom house on London Road.

And in March Councillor Fred Yeulett successfully intervened to halt an immediate refusal of plans for a four bedroom house and workshop in Upwell Road.

The scheme in Chatteris was put forward by Oak Garden Centre owner David White who wants to build a home on derelict land adjoining the business.

He said it would enable his family to relocate to a “more modern home which is easier to maintain and heat.”

Planning officers however insisted that housing in this area would not normally be supported unless some justification was offered.

“Development in this location would introduce additional ribbon development into an area that is currently open and has a strong relationship with the adjoining countryside,” they told councillors.

But Cllr Melton said local members would like to see this area of London Road developed and precedents have been set by other permissions.

The committee agreed to defer the application and asked for a business plan- a similar request which has gone to the Pooleys who want to build west of Thirties Farm, March.

Cllr Yeulett felt the proposal for a workshop home style of development would support an existing business and provide secure storage and surveillance.

But planning officers said the proposal “has failed to demonstrate that a functional and financial need for a workplace home exists through a robust justification”.