Reports and Minutes of the Meeting of

TOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE

Held in the Council Chamber, Civic Centre, Berkhamsted on

Monday 9^th May 2005 at 7.30 p.m.

MEMBERS PRESENT:

Councillors C. Talbot-Ponsonby – Chairman

Geraldine Corry

J. Critcher (arrived at 8.10 p.m.)

J. Lythgoe

G. Stevens

SUBSTITUTE MEMBER:

Councillor Betty Patterson

NON-COMMITTEE MEMBER:

Councillor G. Lanchin (left at 8.10 p.m.)

OFFICER:

Mr. C.R. Westwood - Town Clerk

62/05 APOLOGIES

Apologies for absence were received from Councillor McCloskey.

63/05 TO RECEIVE DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST REGARDING ITEMS ON THE AGENDA

There were no declarations of interest regarding items on the agenda.

64/05 MINUTES

The minutes of the previous meeting held on the 18^th April 2005 were agreed and signed by the Chairman.

65/05 MATTERS ARISING

Vide 57/05 Consultation on Draft Supplementary Planning Guidance

The response to the documents was still in the process of being prepared by Councillor Corry.

Vide item 4/0618/05/ FHA – 4 Upper Ashlyns Road

The Chairman reported his discussion with Senior Planning Officer Jackie Ambrose. He told her that had the Committee been aware they were considering approved plans (4/1627/02), they would not have been able to raise any objections to this current application. He added that they would not wish the application to be considered by Development Control.

66/05 CHAIRMAN’S COMMUNICATIONS

A letter had been received from Patsy Blackmore, Chairman of CARAB concerning 179 High Street, the Adult Studies Centre. CARAB strongly recommends that this building should be preserved, even though it is currently for sale.

Notification had been received of a provisional Tree Preservation Order on land at High Firs, Meadway.

Notification had been received of a provisional Tree Preservation Order on land adjacent to 16 and Park House, Park Street.

67/05 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

There were seven members of the public present, some of whom spoke when the applications they were interested in were dealt with.

68/05 PLANNING APPLICATIONS

The Committee considered forms and drawings for applications relating to the Town of Berkhamsted which had been received from Dacorum Borough Council up to the date of the meeting and it was

RESOLVED

That Dacorum Borough Council is informed of the Council’s comments and observations, if any, as follows. The Council also trust that due regard will be taken of any objections which may be received from neighbours in the vicinity.

4/0448/05/FHA AMENDED and/or ADDITIONAL PLANS / INFORMATION – Single storey side and rear extension at The Whins, Gravel Path. (YE)

No Objection

4/0527/05/FHA AMENDED and/or ADDITIONAL PLANS / INFORMATION – Two storey side and rear extension at 10 North Road. (KS)

No Objection

4/0572/05/FUL AMENDED and/or ADDITIONAL PLANS / INFORMATION – Demolition of existing Bungalow, construction of new Dwelling at 38 Castle Hill. (BL)

Object to the adverse impact of the visual appearance, as the house is clearly visible on exiting Murray Road, which gives the appearance of over-development. Object as the Berkhamsted Character Area 13 (BCA13) states that redevelopment will not normally be permitted and that any new development should follow the existing layout structure with the spacing within the medium range of 2 – 5 m. This is 0.2m at its narrowest.

4/0610/05/FUL AMENDED and/or ADDITIONAL PLANS / INFORMATIONS - Demolition of existing buildings and construction of sixteen flats with twenty seven car spaces, access from Shrublands Road at the Hospice of St. Francis and Blue Mist, Shrublands Road. (PN)

Object to the scale and size of Block 2, which is out of size with the neighbouring houses.

Object to the proposed development, which is in front of the building line of both Numbers 25 & 29.

4/0733/05/OUT Detached dwelling and Garage on land adj. To 36 Upper Ashlyns Road. (KS)

No Objection subject to the trees that are covered by a TPO being protected.

4/0750/05/FHA Conversion of garage to living accommodation and addition of conservatory at 12 West Road. (BG)

No Objection

4/0752/05/FHA Demolish existing garage and construct two-storey rear and side extension and single storey side extension. Relocate drive at Dryden Cottage, Shootersway. (KS)

No Objection

4/0764/05/FHA Conservatory at 1 Castle Mews, Chapel Street. (KS)

No Objection subject to the roof being tinted to prevent light pollution to the neighbouring property at No 12 Manor Street and to reduce the general level of disturbance caused by use.

The Committee recommends that the applicant should raise the wall to the south of the proposed conservatory to the same level of the adjoining wall to reduce noise and light pollution in order to reduce the general level of disturbance caused by use.

4/0767/05/FHA Two-storey side extension and conservatory at 21 Gilpins Ride. (YE)

Mr. & Mrs. Knowles were present to object to the plans, which they said were inaccurate in a number of ways, which they had identified in their letter.

Object due to over-development of the site which, being hard up against the boundary of N°19 with only a metre from N°22 therefore has an impact on the visual appearance on the uncluttered and open area of Gilpins Ride.

Several of the plans are inaccurate in that the location plan on sheet 3 incorrectly shows the house numbers, shape of adjoining properties, road layout and boundary lines. This may have an affect on the positioning of the proposed extension. Sheet 3 incorrectly shows scale at 1:500 and not 1:100, which would otherwise mean the extension, is 35 metres long. Sheets 2 & 3 also show a window on the ground and first floors on the plan layout, whereas the front elevation sketch on sheet 2 shows none.

If revised plans are to be submitted, these errors must be rectified.

4/0782/05/FHA Single storey rear extension at Ballintrae, Shootersway. (NG)

No Objection

4/0784/05/FUL Demolition of existing dwelling and construction of two detached dwellings and garages at 6 Murray Road. (KS)

Object as the Area Based Policy for Castle Hill in the Supplementary Planning Guidance (BCA13) states that re-development will not normally be permitted. The proposals contravene these guidelines.

Object also as the design of the two houses is incompatible with the other buildings in the road and therefore has a detrimental impact on the visual appearance on the area.

The presence of balconies would cause loss of privacy to neighbours by overlooking.

4/0792/05/TPO Works to tree at 7 & 8 Greystoke Close. (BG)

No Objection, as the balance would be improved.

4/0793/05/TCA FOR INFORMATION ONLY – To fell and grind six assorted trees at 15 Shrublands Road. (BG)

No Objection

4/0794/05/FHA Single storey side extension and replacement garage at 31 Kings Road. (KS)

No Objection

4/0800/05/TPO Works to Trees at 1 Beechcroft, Chesham Road. (BG)

Object to the felling of Sycamore 1, which should be coppiced to the same height as that proposed for Sycamore 2. They have a high amenity value as they are tall and fairly mature and add to the character of this part of Chesham Road as reported by Robert Freeman in his report to Development Control in September 2002.

4/0803/05/FUL Extension and alterations to Waitrose Ltd., St. Johns Well Lane. (BL)

Mr. Turner said that the changes made to the new plans had not been highlighted and were difficult to identify. The lock gates had been moved. The extension removed the attractive view of the collonade on the approach from Lower Kings Road, which was replaced with a blank wall. New customers would be attracted from outside the Town which would mean an increase in traffic and the requirement for at least 30 more parking spaces, given the size of the extension.

Mr. Dyer said that there was still no pedestrian access to the shop from Lower Kings Road, and he thought that the existing space in the shop should be utilised, instead of extending.

A local resident pointed out that the four parking spaces adjacent to the track next to the River encroached onto the track, the border of which was currently fenced. The track width would be reduced making access to his bungalow and a Physiotherapy business more difficult.

Object to the extension on account of over-development, as any further increase in footprint would have a detrimental impact on the centre of the town, conservation area and the canal/river side;

Object to the reduction of free car parking spaces within the Waitrose car park, which is already crowded. The level of parking provision would be made even worse with any increase of customers;

Object to the removal of much of the green landscaped areas, flowerbeds, as it would have an adverse affect on the visual aspect of the canal and river side; this is contrary to the Sustainability Statement submitted with the application;

Whilst appreciating the relocation of the lock gates, object to them being closed as they look incongruous and out of place, hidden behind a hedge, and do not add anything to the area.

Object to the removal of the raised kerb and bedding alongside the service road, which impacts on the visual appearance of the area and would undo much of the improvements implemented by the Urban Design Study;

Object to the 13 parking spaces backing onto the service road, and to the extra traffic exiting onto the service road, which has provision for around 100 car spaces to the rear of the buildings in the High Street and Lower Kings Road. This would cause a safety hazard to the pedestrians using the pedestrian priority walkway, which surprisingly is not shown on the plans;

Object due to the increase in traffic, which is likely to cause even more severe congestion in Lower Kings Road and other adjacent roads in the Town centre.

Object as this development would be contrary to the planning guidance given by the Planning Inspector in 2002 as a result of his inquiry into the Stag Lane proposals.

Object to the encroachment onto the track to the South of the river by at least 4 car parking spaces, therefore reducing access to 36a and 36b Lower Kings Road, (Bungalow and Physiotherapy Clinic), especially for emergency service vehicles and the disabled.

If the Council is minded to approve this application, we would wish to see a condition imposed to ensure that condition 2 of the permission granted on 31^st March 1995 is maintained to ensure an adequate balance of food and other retailing facilities in the town centre of Berkhamsted.

4/0808/05/FUL Construction of four maisonettes and associated parking at land adj. Playground, Little Bridge Road. (BL)

Mr. Dyer said that this was over-development of a site with difficult access. The land should be converted into a car park to relieve congestion in George Street.

Object due to over-development of a site with difficult access.

Object due to loss of privacy to properties in Daltons Wharf and in particular into the open Garden down to the canal of 6 Londrina Terrace just 21 metres away, by overlooking from the proposed balconies.

Object due to insufficient parking facilities, including visitors, in a very congested area and restricted access to the site for emergency service vehicles.

Object due to the detrimental impact on the visual appearance of the canal-scape.

4/0830/05/FHA Loft conversion and rear dormer window at 68 High Street. (YE)

Object to the Dormer as its introduction would interrupt the existing continuity of the roof-scape and would therefore have a detrimental impact on the visual appearance of the area as the dormer would be clearly visible coming up Ravens Lane.

4/0871/05/TCA FOR INFORMATION ONLY - To fell one Tree at 19 Charles Street. (BG)

No Objection

4/0878/05/ADV Non-illuminated fascia and projecting box signs at 168 High Street. (BL)

No Objection

69/05 PLANNING APPEAL

4/2665/04/FUL Detached dwelling at Seasons, 3 Garden Field Lane.

The Planning Appeal was noted.

70/05 PLANNING DECISIONS

The Planning decisions circulated with the agenda were noted.

71/05 CLOSE OF MEETING - The meeting closed at 8.40 p.m.

Reports and Minutes of the Meeting of

TOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE

Held in the Council Chamber, Civic Centre, Berkhamsted on

Monday 18^th April 2005 at 7.30 p.m.

MEMBERS PRESENT:

Councillors C. Talbot-Ponsonby – Chairman

Geraldine Corry

J. Critcher

J. Lythgoe

G. Stevens

SUBSTITUTE MEMBER:

Councillor Betty Patterson

NON-COMMITTEE MEMBER:

Councillor Freda Earl

OFFICER:

Mr. C.R. Westwood - Town Clerk

50/05 APOLOGIES

Apologies for absence were received from Councillor McCloskey.

51/05 TO RECEIVE DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST REGARDING ITEMS ON THE AGENDA

Councillor Stevens declared a personal interest in application 4/641/05/FHA as a friend of the applicant.

52/05 TO CONFIRM THE MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING HELD ON THE 29^TH MARCH 2005

The minutes were agreed and signed by the Chairman.

53/05 MATTERS ARISING

Vide item 28/05 – Minutes of Full Council. The yellow bricks on the Railway bridge opposite the Crystal Palace Public House had been notified to the Enforcement Officer.

54/05 CHAIRMAN’S COMMUNICATIONS

Information had been received from Ruth Chapman, Dacorum Borough Council, that an Ash tree subject of a TPO in the garden of 1A Bridgewater Road had died and was to be removed. Negotiations were in hand with the owners to plant a replacement.

A copy of a letter sent to the Chief Executive of Dacorum Borough Council by Dr. Joseph Iskaros concerning planning application 4/0248/05/FHA had been copied to members of the Town Planning Committee.

A letter had been received from Chiltern District Council concerning their Local Development Framework asking if the Town Council wished to be consulted on its preparation.

55/05 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

There were 22 members of the public present regarding various applications on the agenda.

Mr. Dyer was concerned that the listing status of the Rex Cinema did not include the foyer and the frontage could therefore be abused. He was assured by the Chairman that the whole building was listed.

56/05 STAG LANE PROPOSALS

Councillor Lythgoe referred to a report recently considered by the Dacorum Borough Council Cabinet. He said that although there were no planning proposals for the Stag Lane site at present, the Town Council should re-state it’s position agreed in March 2003, that the site should be for a mixed development of housing and retail, and not solely for housing.

57/05 CONSULTATION ON DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY PLANNING DOCUMENTS

It was agreed that the relevant documents would be considered by Councillors Talbot-Ponsonby and Corry who would report to the next meeting.

Action Councillors Talbot-Ponsonby and Corry.

58/05 APPLICATION BY DAVIS & SAMSON FOR PLANNING PERMISSION FOR AN ENCLOSED CONTAINER WITHIN A SECURE COMPOUND FOR THE RECEIPT, STORAGE AND CONSIGNMENT OF ASBESTOS WASTE AT BILLET LANE.

Councillor Corry spoke against this application following which it was agreed to

Object as the proposed site is close to a residential area and the Gossoms End Elderly Care Unit and does not form part of a general industrial area.

Object as the licence to the current operator is only appropriate for small quantities of ‘residential’ asbestos.

Object in that by its location the site is too small and insecure for the storage of large quantities.

Object as the proposed container would be within 8 metres of the River Bulbourne, an important chalk stream with the potential for contamination.

Object to the arrangement of drainage from the container into the foul sewer and the potential for contamination.

Action Town Clerk.

59/05 PLANNING APPLICATIONS

The Committee considered forms and drawings for applications relating to the Town of Berkhamsted which had been received from Dacorum Borough Council up to the date of the meeting and it was

RESOLVED

4/0421/05/FHA AMENDED and/or ADDITIONAL PLANS/INFORMATION

Two storey and single storey rear extension 33 Queens Road. (YE)

No Objection

4/0431/05/FHA AMENDED and/or ADDITIONAL PLANS/INFORMATION

First floor front extension at 41 Long View. (BL)

4/0451/05/OUT Construction of new access, detached house and garage, land R/O 20 & 22 Meadway. (FB)

Notification had been received from Dacorum Borough Council that this application had been withdrawn. Therefore it was not discussed.

4/0572/05/FUL Demolition of existing bungalow. Construction of new dwelling at 38 Castle Hill. (BL)

4/0575/05/FHA Single storey rear extension at 57 Cross Oak Road. (KS)

No Objection

4/0577/05/CAC Demolition of caretaker’s house, various buildings and bridge at Berkhamsted Collegiate School, Castle Street. (YE)

Object until there is an acceptable and detailed plan for any redevelopment as laid down in paragraph 4.27 of PPG15.

4/0578/05/FUL New building incorporating design and technology and art departments, dining centre and kitchen. Remodelling of garden and replacement footbridge at Berkhamsted Collegiate School, Castle Street. (YE)

Paul Maynard, Business Director of the Collegiate School was present with a representative from the Architects. He said that following comments last August to the original scheme, it had been withdrawn to allow those comments to be taken into account. The scheme had been moved 8 metres from the River and the ventilation system had been re-modelled. Changes had been made to the roof line and fenestration and more space created between the complex and the flats at the end of Castle Street.

Paul Renny-Smith objected to the scheme on behalf of the Castle Street Residents Association. It was unsympathetic to the street scene, especially because of its scale and height in relation to other buildings. It had an institutional appearance and was out of character, especially the design of the windows. There would be a loss of School car parking spaces, and smell and noise would emanate from the kitchen and dining rooms, particularly when week-end functions were held. He urged that the design be rejected and further improvements made to the Castle Street façade.

Patsy Blackmore on behalf of the Conservation Area Residents Association of Berkhamsted agreed with Mr. Renny-Smith.

Angela Wheeldon said there should be conditions attached to any planning consent concerning hours of work, lorry routes etc. and a liaison group should be established.

Object due to the adverse impact the proposals will have on Castle Street, Mill Street, The Moor, the Railway and the River Bulbourne by their visual appearance. Also, the adverse impact on the Conservation Area and the listed Grade II building immediately opposite; Castle Street is perhaps the most historic road in Berkhamsted and any design, albeit of a highly individual style, should ensure that it fits in as ‘good manners’.

Object to the 2m terracotta cowls as they would dominate the roof profile as the cowls from both buildings will clearly be seen down Castle Street as the building on Mill Street is higher;

Object to the ribbon fenestration to the ground floor elevation on Castle Street, which has no vertical emphasis and therefore no experience of rhythm. The design results in the down water pipes crossing the windows;

The building by its height and size is likely to cause loss of light onto principle rooms to No 44 Castle Street.

4/0578/05/FUL ADDITIONAL PLANS/INFORMATION

FOR INFORMATION ONLY

New building incorporating design and technology and art departments, dining centre and kitchen. Remodelling of garden and replacement footbridge at Berkhamsted Collegiate School, Castle Street. (YE)

Paul Renny-Smith objected to the scheme on behalf of the Castle Street Residents Association. It was unsympathetic to the street scene, especially because of its scale and height in relation to other buildings. It had an institutional appearance and was out of character, especially the design of the windows. There would be a loss of School car parking spaces, and s,ell and noise would emanate from the kitchen and dining rooms, particularly when week-end functions were held. He urged that the design be rejected and further improvements made to the Castle Street façade.

Patsy Blackmore on behalf of the Conservation Area Residents Association of Berkhamsted agreed with Mr. Renny-Smith.

Angela Wheeldon said there should be conditions attached to any planning consent concerning hours of work, lorry routes etc. and a liaison group should be established.

Object to the 2m terracotta cowls as they would dominate the roof profile as the cowls from both buildings will clearly be seen down Castle Street as the building on Mill Street is higher;

The building by its height and size is likely to cause loss of light onto principal rooms to No 44 Castle Street.

4/0590/05/FHA Alterations to existing drive with new steps and retaining wall at 11 Shrublands Road. (KS)

No Objection

4/0592/05/FUL Memorial headstone to boundary wall at Three Close Lane Cemetery, Three Close Lane. (PN)

No Objection

Councillor Stevens suggested that names on the memorial from the Second World War should be shown separately from those of the First World War.

4/0595/05/FHA First floor front extension at Rye House, Shenstone Hill, Gravel Path. (JA)

No Objection

4/0599/05/FHA Construction of retaining wall and erection of fence (AMENDED SCHEME) at 5 Red Lodge Gardens. (PN)

Object as the retaining wall has created an artificial ground level for the use of a patio hard up against the neighbour’s boundary and therefore causes a considerable degree of loss of privacy through overlooking. It also has an overbearing effect on the neighbour’s property as it comes up to the eaves. The infill should be excavated and path returned to its previous level.

The landscaping to 1, Hill Mead is to be re-instated to its former 2004 appearance.

4/0601/05/FHA Conservatory at Kingshill, Kingshill Way. (BC)

No Objection

4/0602/05/FHA Single and two-storey rear extensions, replacement front bay and additional side windows at 66 Greenway. (BC)

No Objection

4/0606/05/FHA First floor extension and alterations to side elevation at 22 Upper Hall Park. (NG)

No Objection

4/0608/05/FUL Construction of four houses at r/o Loreley, Shelgrah & Carden, George Street. (YE)

Mr. Dyer objected to this application as it was over-development of a back land site.

Object in that the houses at between 8 and 11 metres from the tow path are too close and would therefore have a detrimental impact on the visual appearance of the canal-scape. Also as the proposal does not respect the heavy informally landscaped green corridor passing through the area as outlined in Berkhamsted Character Area 3.

If the application were to be granted, the developer should be requested to repair the unmade part of George Street to such a standard so that it could be adopted.

4/0610/05/FUL Demolition of existing buildings and construction of sixteen flats with twenty seven car spaces, access from Shrublands Road at the Hospice of St. Francis and Blue Mist, Shrublands Road. (PN)

A local resident objected to the application as it would increase traffic movements in that part of Shrublands Road and increase the already present potential for accidents. He also objected to the fact that Blue Mist was to be replaced by a three-storey mansion which would affect the outlook of the houses opposite.

Object to the introduction of flats into an area that is totally designed for single owner occupancy.

Object to the scale and size of Block 2 which is out of size with the neighbouring houses.

Object to the positioning of the car park which at 60m from the flats’ entrance would discourage residents and in particular visitors, from using it and therefore park in the road which is already heavily congested.

Object that the proposed development is in front of both Nos 25 & 29.

4/0611/05/FUL Demolition of existing building and construction of twelve dwellings at 77 High Street. (YE)

A local resident objected to the application as it was over-development of the site, intrusive, contained insufficient parking, no manoeuvring space for emergency and service vehicles and trees would be decimated.

Another resident said that the plans were contradictory as on one plan front doors were shown on the North elevation, and on another plan they were on the South. There were also Health & Safety issues connecting 12 units by one narrow pathway. This could lead to residents being trapped, as there was only one point of access/egress from the site.

Another resident said that because of the volume of traffic using the A4251 and the dangerous exit from the site, the potential for pedestrians being involved in accidents was high.

Object as it is over-development of the site with the resulting lack of car parking provision with only 1 car space per house and just two for visitors for the whole development;

Object due to the unsafe nature of the access to and from the site;

Object to the closeness of the development to No22 at 3½m therefore causing loss of privacy by overlooking.

It is noted that plan 40.103 is inaccurate in that the North & South elevations are incorrectly shown

Object due to there being only one point of access/egress from the site which could lead to residents being trapped if an emergency such as fire occurred, requiring the attendance of emergency service vehicles.

If further revisions are to be submitted, it is requested that plan 40.105 be revised to show the cross section with 22 Highfield Road and unit 2 owing to the closeness of the house to the development site;

4/0611/05/FUL AMENDED and/or ADDITIONAL PLANS/INFORMATION

Demolition of existing building and construction of twelve dwellings at 77 High Street. (YE)

A local resident objected to the application as it was over-development of the site, Intrusive, contained insufficient parking, no manoeuvring space for emergency and service vehicles and trees would be decimated.

Another resident said that the plans were contradictory as on one plan front doors were shown on the north elevation, and on another plan they were on the South. There were also Health & Safety issues connecting 12 units by one narrow pathway. This could lead to residents being trapped, as there was only one point of access/egress from the site.

Another resident said that because of the volume of traffic using the A4251 and the dangerous exit from the site, the potential for pedestrians being involved in accidents was high.

Object as it is over-development of the site with the resulting lack of car parking provision with only 1 car space per house and just two for visitors for the whole development;

Object due to the unsafe nature of the access to and from the site;

Object to the closeness of the development to No22 at 3½m therefore causing loss of privacy by overlooking.

It is noted that plan 40.103 is inaccurate in that the North & South elevations are incorrectly shown

4/0612/05/FHA Two-storey rear extension at 12 Cedar Road. (BL)

No Objection

4/0613/05/FHA Single storey rear extension and first floor rear dormer and extension at 4 Upper Hall Park. (EP)

No Objection

4/0618/05/FHA Two-storey side extension garage extension and single storey rear extension at 4 Upper Ashlyns Road. (JA)

Object to the level of car parking provision in that by bringing the garage forward does not leave sufficient room for off street parking. Object on the visual appearance of the extension in that it has been brought forward from the present building line of both Nos 4 & 6 .

4/0623/05/FHA Raise roofline and insert dormers to rear and rooflight to front at 24 Castle Hill. (BL)

No Objection

4/0641/05/FHA Single storey front and two-storey side extension and rear conservatory at 25 Oakwood. (JA)

No Objection

4/0650/05/FUL Erection of Street Lamp at junction of Approach Road with Frithsden Road. Castle Village, Berkhamsted Hill. (FB).

No Objection

4/0656/05/FHA Conservatory, 65 Egerton Road. (RH)

No Objection

4/0669/05/TCA FOR INFORMATION ONLY – Works to trees, 71 High Street. (BG)

No Objection. The Committee recommends that the Tree Officer inspects the Yew, shown as 1 on the plan, with a view of preserving it by a TPO.

4/0675/05/FHA Two-storey side and single storey rear extensions at 14 Hill View. (KS)

No Objection

4/0678/05/TPO Works to trees at 1 Beech Hill Court. (BG)

No Objection

4/0698/05/FHA Single storey and first floor rear extension at 10 Holly Drive. (EP)

Object as the extension at 200mm is too close to the boundary fence and is less than the recommended 1m.

4/0700/05/LBC Re-alignment of Advertising Panel on flank wall at 103 High Street. (BG)

Object in that it is obtrusive and therefore harms the character of the Conservation Area and the listed building to which it is attached and also The Rex an adjacent listed building recently refurbished. We therefore request that the Advertising Panel is removed altogether.

4/0716/05/FHA Part Garage Extension and Conversion and Roof Alterations at 38 London Road. (BG)

Object in that the garage extension would cause loss of light to the study on the ground floor in that it pertains to the life of the property and not just the applicant

4/0721/05/FUL Rear Flue and Railings at 149 High Street. (YE)

No Objection

4/0727/05/FHA Enlargement of Existing Rear Dormer Window at 21 Torrington Road. (BC).

No Objection

4/0736/05/TCA FOR INFORMATION ONLY - Works to Trees at 50 and 52 Cross Oak Road. (BC)

No Objection

60/05 PLANNING DECISIONS

The Planning decisions circulated with the agenda were noted.

61/05 CLOSE OF MEETING

The meeting closed at 9.09 p.m.

Reports and Minutes of the Meeting of

TOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE

Held in the Council Chamber, Civic Centre, Berkhamsted on

Tuesday, 29^th March 2005 at 7.30 p.m.

MEMBERS PRESENT:

Councillors C. Talbot-Ponsonby - Chairman

J. Critcher

J. Lythgoe

Mrs. H. McCloskey

G. Stevens

OFFICER:

Mr. R.J. Price – Assistant Town Clerk

40/05 APOLOGIES

Apologies for absence were received from Councillor Geraldine Corry.

41/05 TO RECEIVE DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST REGARDING ITEMS ON THE AGENDA

There were no declarations of interest regarding items on the agenda.

42/05 MINUTES

The minutes of the previous meeting held on the 7^th March 2005 were agreed and signed by the Chairman.

43/05 MATTERS ARISING

There were no matters arising.

44/05 CHAIRMAN’S COMMUNICATIONS

There were no Chairman’s communications.

45/05 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

There were 25 members of the public present concerning two applications on the agenda.

46/05 PLANNING APPLICATIONS

The Committee considered forms and drawings for applications relating to the Town of Berkhamsted which had been received from Dacorum Borough Council up to the date of the meeting and it was

RESOLVED

4/2264/04/FUL AMENDED and/or ADDITIONAL PLANS/INFORMATION – Demolition and replacement warehouse at Aviation House, Northbridge Road. (NG)

No objection subject to an environmentally friendly colour to the building.

4/0108/05/FUL-A AMENDED PLANS – Demolition of shop and replacement with one residential unit (to be integrated into existing residential development) at 110 High Street. (JA)

No objection

4/0389/05/FHA AMENDED and/or ADDITIONAL PLANS/INFORMATION - Conversion of existing garage to hobbies room and extension to rear to form double garage with Gym above at 45 Kings Road. (PN).

No objection

4/0421/05/FHA Two-storey and single storey rear extension at 33 Queens Road. (YE)

No objection

4/0431/05/FHA First floor front extension at 41 Long View. (BL)

Object in that a front gable would impact onto the visual appearance at the entrance of Long View as none of the other houses have made alterations at first floor level and this would set a dangerous precedent. Object as the two-storey gable would cause loss of sunlight into the front rooms of no.42.

4/0448/05/FHA Single storey side and rear extension at The Whins, Gravel Path. (YE)

No objection

4/0449/05/TPO Works to trees at land r/o 36 Hillside Gardens. (KS)

No objection

4/0457/05/TCA FOR INFORMATION ONLY - Works to tree at Claremont, Doctors Commons Road. (KS)

No objection

4/0458/05/FHA FOR INFORMATION ONLY – Dormer windows to out building and use a residential annex at Sandon, Dudswell Lane, Dudswell. (BC)

No objection

4/0471/05/FUL Three-storey office building and associated parking at land at Cowper Road/r/o 221-233 High Street. (BL)

Residents of Nightingale Lodge who were present at the meeting objected to the application on the following grounds:

q Loss of sunlight.

q Loss of privacy due to overlooking.

Object on the degree of over-looking and therefore loss of privacy onto the flats in both Nightingale Lodge and Outspan House and that the design be submitted to the Architects Panel should the application be resubmitted.

4/0476/05/FHA Rear dormer at 24 Cedar Road. (EP)

Object in that the dormer is positioned too near the ridge line that when viewed from a distance would appear to be above it and therefore has an impact on the visual appearance of the area.

4/0477/05/TCA FOR INFORMATION ONLY - Works to trees at 253 High Street. (EP)

No objection

4/0479/05/FHA Two-storey side extension and widening of drive at Southways, 5 Kingsdale Road. (PN)

No objection

4/0485/05/FHA Side conservatory at 10 Torrington Road. (BC)

No objection

4/0493/05/FHA Two-storey side extension at 9 Grayling Court (FB).

No objection

4/0495/05/FUL New electricity sub-Station and minor alterations, single storey infill extension to form water booster enclosure, land at Cowper Road r/o 233 High Street. (FB).

No objection

4/0519/05/ROC Removal of condition 3 (external brickwork) of Planning Permission 4/0205/04 (New Dwelling), 21 Swing Gate Lane (BL).

Object as the extra mortar required at about 2mm would not have an impact on the visual appearance with ‘unusually wide mortar joints’, whereas the extra courses of brickwork would.

4/0527/05/FHA Two-storey side and rear extension at 10 North Road. (FB)

No objection

4/0537/05/FUL Change of use of amenity land to domestic garden and boundary fence at land r/o 10 & 11 Sayers Gardens. (BC)

Object as amenity space in the Town is scarce and needs to be preserved and being within the Tunnel Fields Character Area (BCA15), which states that the existing areas of amenity land must be maintained and that their inclusion within individual domestic curtilage will not normally be permitted.

4/0543/05/FUL Demolition of existing dwelling and garage and construction of two detached dwellings and garages (AMENDED SCHEME) – High Firs, Meadway. (BL)

Mr. Chris Green, Chairman of Meadway Residents Association, spoke on behalf of members of the public present and raised the following objections:

q Over-development of the site.

q That the road is classed as being within a semi-rural environment of larger than average houses and gardens (the application is at variance with the current housing density).

q Overlooking.

q Scale of the development – three storey buildings would set a precedent in the road.

q The introduction of the houses more than doubles the size of the existing site.

q It would reduce the number of trees in Meadway.

In addition further comments were made by other residents as follows:

q Loss of privacy for residents in Gilpin’s Ride.

q The development is out of character with the existing buildings in Meadway.

q The sub-dividing of existing building plots sets a future precedent.

Object on the grounds that it is an over-development of the site.

4/0558/05/FHA Single storey side and rear extension and loft conversion at 15 Egerton Road. (FB)

No objection

4/0561/05/FHA Garage at Woodlands, Shootersway Lane. (AP)

No objection

47/05 PLANNING APPEAL

4/2473/04/FHA Loft Conversion with rear dormer at 53 Kitsbury Road

The planning appeal was noted.

48/05 PLANNING DECISIONS

The planning decisions circulated with the agenda were noted.

49/05 CLOSE OF MEETING

The meeting closed at 8.19 p.m.

Reports and Minutes of the Meeting of

TOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE

Held in the Council Chamber, Civic Centre, Berkhamsted on

Monday, 7^th March 2005 at 7.30 p.m.

MEMBERS PRESENT:

Councillors C. Talbot-Ponsonby - Chairman

J. Critcher

J. Lythgoe

Mrs. H. McCloskey

G. Stevens

SUBSTITUTE MEMBER:

Councillor Betty Patterson

NON-COMMITTEE MEMBERS:

Councillors Freda Earl

Victor Earl

Lesley Featherstone (left at 8.25 p.m.)

G. Lanchin

EX-OFFICIO:

Councillor P.G. Gibbs – Mayor

OFFICER:

Mr. C.R. Westwood – Town Clerk

31/05 APOLOGIES

Apologies for absence were received from Councillor Corry.

32/05 TO RECEIVE DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST REGARDING ITEMS ON THE AGENDA

Councillor McCloskey declared a personal interest in application 4/0361/05/FUL as a member of the Church in Park Street.

33/05 MINUTES

The minutes of the previous meeting held on the 14^th February 2005 were agreed and signed by the Chairman.

34/05 MATTERS ARISING

East of England Plan RSS 14

Councillor Stevens referred to his amended draft, which had been previously circulated and said that he had received one comment from Councillor Lanchin, which he would add as the second paragraph. It was agreed that the response could then be sent with a copy to HAPTC.

Action Town Clerk

David Nye Plaque

No progress had been made concerning the installation of the plaque, as the Restaurant had been closed on each occasion the Clerk had visited. Further attempts to contact the manager would be made.

Action Town Clerk

35/05 CHAIRMAN’S COMMUNICATIONS

A letter had been received from Dr. & Mrs. Iskaros concerning application 4/0248/05/FHA at 26 Ashlyns Road, expressing their objections to the amended plans and surprise that the Town Council had not agreed with them. A reply had been sent by the Chairman.

A letter had been received from Mr. & Mrs. Boswell of Chapel Street objecting to the continued existence of an advertising board on the end wall of a listed building adjacent to The Rex development. A copy had been sent to Enforcement Officer Egan.

Notification had been received of a provisional tree preservation order on land adjacent to Garden Field Lane.

A letter had been received from Chiltern District Council inviting comments by the 28^th March on their Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report.

36/05 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

There were eight members of the public present concerning various applications on the agenda.

37/05 PLANNING APPLICATIONS

The Committee considered forms and drawings for applications relating to the Town of Berkhamsted which had been received from Dacorum Borough Council up to the date of the meeting and it was

RESOLVED

4/2830/04/FUL AMENDED and/or ADDITIONAL PLANS/INFORMATION - Demolition of dwelling and construction of two detached dwellings each with an integral Granny annex at 6 Murray Road. (RF)

Object as the Area Based Policy for Castle Hill in the Supplementary Planning Guidance states that redevelopment will not normally be permitted. The proposals contravene these guidelines.

Object also as the design of the two houses is incompatible with the other buildings in the road and therefore has a detrimental impact on the visual appearance on the area.

The presence of balconies would cause loss of privacy to neighbours by overlooking.

The house proposed on Plot 1 at 0.75 metre is closer than the recommended distance of 1 metre.

4/0269/05/FHA Conservatory at The Granary, Sharpes Lane, Bourne End. (BC)

No Objection

4/0271/05/FUL Construction of new dwelling (AMENDED SCHEME) at 21 Hall Park. (BL)

Object due to over-development of the site and consequential loss of amenity.

4/0272/05/FUL Alterations and extensions to allow conversion into seven apartments and construction of eight apartments over car parking with glazed link to Mill (AMENDED SCHEME) at Castle Mill, Lower Kings Road. (PN)

No Objection

4/0277/05/FHA Demolish garage and construct two storey side and rear extensions and front porch at 29 Ashlyns Road. (JA)

No Objection

4/0282/05/BPA Three windows in front elevation of gym area at Berkhamsted Sports Centre, Lagley Meadow, Douglas Gardens. (YE)

No Objection

4/0283/05/FHA Two-storey side extension at 2 Mortain Drive. (TP)

No Objection

4/0303/05/TPO Works to trees at 5 Tower Close. (BC)

No Objection

4/0314/05/FUL Extension and alterations at Waitrose Ltd., St. Johns Well Lane.

A number of members of the public were present to object to this application. Mr. Stanley Sharpe read a letter that he had sent to the Town and Borough Councils and urged that the plans were presented to Berkhamsted shoppers.

Mrs. Lindy Foster Weinreb spoke to her report, which she provided to the Clerk and made a number of recommendations for Section 106 conditions to be requested. In particular she said that the lock gates should remain as a feature; new parking should not be by the river as it would be detrimental to the river environment; a Monet style bridge should be placed over the River Bulbourne leading to the wider grass area between the Canal tow path and the river; a two to three storey car park should be installed on the Dacorum land on the Lower Kings side of the store which should be available for all but free to Waitrose shoppers; the public money invested in BUDS scheme should not be devalued; footpath 27 which used to be kept open but is currently closed should be reinstated.

The meeting was reconvened and the application was discussed by the Councillors present. Following discussion it was agreed that the Town Council should:

Object to the extension on account of over-development as any further increase in footprint would have a detrimental impact on the centre of the town, conservation area and the canal / river side;

Object to the reduction of free car parking spaces within the Waitrose car park, which is already crowded. The level of parking provision would be made even worse with any increase of customers;

Object to the removal of much of the green landscaped areas, flowerbeds and lock gates as it would have an adverse affect on the visual aspect of the canal and river side; This is contrary to the Sustainability Statement submitted with the application;

Object to the further encroachment of hard standing and tarmac within 8 metres of the river and contrary to the land drainage Byelaw;

Object to encroachment of parking into the bed at the entrance of the car park resulting in the loss of the catalpa on account of the visual appearance and loss of environmental space (Contravenes Policy 11 of conditions imposed in 1995.); this could perhaps be prevented if the parking spaces were to be reduced by one.

Object to the 13 parking spaces backing onto the service road, and to the extra traffic exiting onto the service road, as this would cause a safety hazard to the pedestrians using the pedestrian priority walkway, which surprisingly is not shown on the plans;

Object due to the increase in traffic, which is likely to cause even more severe congestion in Lower Kings Road and other adjacent roads in the Town centre.

Object as this development would be contrary to the planning guidance given by the Planning Inspector in 2002 as a result of his inquiry into the Stag Lane proposals.

If the Borough Council is minded to approve this application, we would wish to see a condition imposed to ensure that condition 2 of the permission granted on 31^st March 1995 is maintained to ensure an adequate balance of food and other retailing facilities in the town centre of Berkhamsted.

4/0332/05/FHA Single storey rear extension at 133 Cross Oak Road. (RF)

No Objection

4/0342/05/FHA Two-storey side extension at 27 Bridgewater Road. (TP)

No Objection, subject to the bricks used matching those on the principle house.

4/0344/05/FHA Rear extension and internal alterations at 45 Kings Road. (PN)

No Objection

4/0345/05/FHA First floor side extension at 17 St. Margarets Close. (BC)

No Objection

4/0347/05/FHA Two-storey extension and roof conversion (AMENDED SCHEME) at 8 Park View Road. (TP)

No Objection

4/0350/05/LBC Externally illuminated fascia sign at 130 High Street. (EP)

No Objection

4/0361/05/FUL Construction of pair of dwellings, alteration to Park House entrance, parking and bins store (AMENDED SCHEME) – Park House and land adj. Park Street. (AP)

No Objection

4/0364/05/FHA Loft conversion at 11 Alderley Court. (JA)

Three local residents were present to object to the application as it would be too high in relation to the other properties and would spoil the visual effect of an attractive court. Also due to the detrimental effect that the development would have on its attached neighbour at no.9, in particular, with regard to the change of the roofing line and the alterations that would be needed to the guttering to cope with rain water.

Object to the adverse affect on the visual appearance by the raised roof and dormers and, by its design and bulk, to the Court and across the valley of the Kings Road area.

Object to the proposed raising of the roof in that it spoils the character of the Court itself.

4/0367/05/DRC Details of hard and soft landscaping, exterior lighting, hard surface materials, surface water source control, slab levels and finished floor levels and protective fencing required by conditions 3, 9, 10 & 12 of planning permission 4/1938/04 (Alterations and extensions to allow conversion into seven apartments and construction of eight apartments over car parking with glazed link to Mill) at Castle Mill, Lower Kings Road. (PN)

Object to plain stretcher bond for the apartments as being unsuitable for the conservation area and canal side. The bonding used should match that of the existing Mill.

4/0375/05/LDP Use of premises as a Coffee Shop at 162-166 High Street. (YE)

Object as with the information submitted this is not a continued A1 use but that of A3 and that a further application should be submitted

4/0376/05/FHA Replacement UPVC windows at 15 Cowper Road. (BC)

Object as UPVC windows are inappropriate in a conservation area and should be replaced with a traditional wooden sliding sash window to match those on that side of Cowper Road.

4/0382/05/FHA Two-storey side and single storey rear extensions at 7 Finch Road. (BL)

Object as any new extensions should keep to at least 1 metre from the boundary to assist maintenance and maintain the visual appearance to this rural avenue of houses.

4/0383/05/FHA Conservatory at 9 Greene Walk. (EP)

No Objection

4/0384/05/LBC Change of use of first and second floors from commercial to residential and of outbuildings from commercial/residential to wholly residential and rear/side extension to ground floor and basement (AMENDED SCHEME) – H.H. Dickman, 224 High Street. (AP)

Object as the proposed refurbishment will destroy much of the historic features, referred to in the 22^nd amendment, dated 9^th May 2003, of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest, for which the primary interest is the ground floor shop. There is also no indication as to whether the remaining historic features would remain.

There is no objection to the conversion of the first and second floors back to a house, subject to the entrance being from the rear as any alteration would destroy historic features mentioned in the listing description, and break up the front façade of what is a continuous shop front and fascia.

If the refurbishment were to be allowed, precaution should be taken to secure and protect the internal features against loss or damage during the refurbishment work to those features not being moved.

The Conservation Officer must visit the site, assess the application and report her recommendations to the Town Council.

4/0386/05/FUL Change of use of first and second floor and outbuilding from commercial to domestic use. Extension and alterations at ground level and basement (AMENDED SCHEME) – H.H. Dickman, 224 High Street. (AP)

Object as the proposed refurbishment will destroy much of the historic features, referred to in the 22^nd amendment, dated 9^th May 2003, of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest, for which the primary interest is the ground floor shop. There is also no indication as to whether the remaining historic features would remain.

The Conservation Officer must visit the site, assess the application and report her recommendations to the Town Council.

4/0389/05/FHA Conversion of existing garage to hobbies room and extension to rear to form double garage with gym above at 45 Kings Road. (PN)

The next-door neighbour was present to comment on the application, which he expected to be amended as a result of conversations between him and the applicant. He was concerned that if the garage/gymnasium was built on the site shown on the plans the deep excavation required would affect the integrity of his own garage and trees.

Object as the proposed rear extension to the garage would adversely affect the neighbour’s garage and trees due to the deep excavation required.

4/0400/05/RET Retention of shutters at Blockbuster Express, 283 High Street. (YE)

Object as blue external security shutters are inappropriate in a conservation area and enforcement should be made for their removal.

4/0404/05/FHA Single storey side extension, garage conversion and elevational alterations at 2 Marlin End. (FB)

No Objection

4/0405/05/FHA Two-storey rear extension at 65 Charles Street. (YE)

The next-door neighbour was present to point out that the measurements on the plans were not to scale and he had no real idea on what the impact of the application would be on his property.

Object until correctly scaled drawings with measurements are produced in order to determine whether the proposed extension causes loss of sunlight onto the neighbouring properties. Object until plans are produced to show how the proposed extension connects with the party wall of N°67 to ensure that no damage is caused during or after construction.

4/0406/05/FHA Two-storey front extension at 27 Cedar Road. (FB)

No Objection

38/05 PLANNING DECISIONS

The planning decisions circulated with the agenda were noted.

39/05 CLOSE OF MEETING

The meeting closed at 9.16 p.m.

Reports and Minutes of the Meeting of

TOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE

Held in the Council Chamber, Civic Centre, Berkhamsted on

Monday, 14^th February 2005 at 7.30 p.m.

MEMBERS PRESENT:

Councillors C. Talbot-Ponsonby - Chairman

J. Critcher

J.D. Lythgoe

G. Stevens

SUBSTITUTE MEMBER:

Councillor Betty Patterson

OFFICER:

Mr. C.R. Westwood – Town Clerk

20/05 APOLOGIES

Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Briand, Corry and McCloskey.

21/05 TO RECEIVE DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST REGARDING ITEMS ON THE AGENDA

There were no declarations of interest regarding items on the agenda.

22/05 MINUTES

The minutes of the previous meeting held on the 24^th January 2005 had been agreed at Full Council and were signed by the Chairman.

23/05 MATTERS ARISING

Vide Item 15/05 – East of England Plan (RSS14)

Councillor Stevens said that he had prepared a draft response which had been circulated to committee members. He would welcome any suggestions for amendments.

24/05 CHAIRMAN’S COMMUNICATIONS

A letter had been received from Chiltern District Council requesting responses to their Draft Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report. Closing date for comments was Monday 28^th March 2005 and it was agreed to copy the letter to committee members.

25/05 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

There were five members of the public present.

26/05 CASTLE MILL

The Chairman referred to the letter received from the Conservation Area Residents Association of Berkhamsted (CARAB) requesting samples of bricks to be used in the development at Castle Mill to be made available in the Council Chamber. It was agreed to write to the applicant to request that such samples were made available for the next meeting of the Planning Committee.

Action Town Clerk

27/05 COMMEMORATIVE PLAQUE FOR THE REX CINEMA

The Chairman displayed the plaque for the Rex Cinema received from Nicholas King Homes. It was agreed to approach the Manager of Brookes restaurant with a view to installing the plaque on the front elevation.

Action Town Clerk

28/05 PLANNING APPLICATIONS

The Committee considered forms and drawings for applications relating to the Town of Berkhamsted which had been received from Dacorum Borough Council up to the date of the meeting and it was

RESOLVED

4/2771/04/FHA AMENDED and/or ADDITIONAL PLANS/INFORMATION – Two-storey side and single storey rear extensions and porch at 14 Hill View. (RF)

No Objection

4/2856/04/FUL AMENDED and/or ADDITIONAL PLANS/INFORMATION – Construction of two semi-detached houses, parking and access (onto Eddy Street only) – adj. 1, Eddy Street. (JA)

No Objection

4/2949/04/FHA AMENDED and/or ADDITIONAL PLANS/INFORMATION - Annex above detached garage at Highlands, Gravel Path. (SS)

No Objection

4/0108/05/FUL Demolition of shop and replacement with one residential unit (to be integrated into existing residential development) at 110 High Street. (JA)

Mr. M. Hart was present to seek clarification as to whether or not the existing premises was to be demolished. The Chairman confirmed that it would be.

No Objection in principle. However, the committee were strongly of the view that the windows and balconies on the ground and first floor should align with those at 112-118 to improve the appearance of the development as a whole. Also that there should be a brickwork feature on the tower below the landing on the first floor, to improve the visual appearance on the High Street. It was noted that drawing 002 may be wrong in that it shows an outside door to bedroom 2 to Flat 1.

4/0131/05/FHA Single storey extension and roof modification at 15 Chestnut Drive. (RH)

No Objection

4/0137/05/FHA Single storey rear extension and replacement shed at Frerdos, George Street. (SS)

No Objection

4/0139/05/FHA Two-storey rear extension at 10 Holly Drive. (EP)

Object as the extension at 200mm is too close to the boundary fence and is less than the recommended 1m.

4/0146/05/FHA Two-storey rear extension at 36 Bridgewater Road. (EP)

Object as the extension to the side would come to within 200mm of the boundary fence and is less than the recommended 1m.

4/0147/05/FUL Two one-bed flats at 1 Billet Lane. (JA)

Object to the over-development of the site resulting in lack of amenity space for the left hand plot; object to the adverse impact of the visual appearance by its height and that it comes some 2.5m in front of the building and is therefore out of character in the area.

4/0156/05/FHA Replacement garden shed at 5 Kitsbury Road. (BL)

Object on account of its size which would adversely impact on the visual appearance onto Kitsbury Road and loss of light to the conservatory and garden to N° 1 Lockharts Yard. Being large, its use may be other than for a workshop or storage and may therefore create a general level of disturbance.

4/0163/05/FHA Two-storey side and rear extension and raise roof at 3 William Street. (BL)

Fay Johnstone was present to object to the application but had nothing to add to her letter, which was in the file.

The applicant was present and said that the extension had been designed to retain the character of the house and he refuted claims that no.4 would suffer from loss of light.

Object as the proposed extension is too large and not subservient to the parent building and is out of keeping with the neighbourhood.

Object as the utility room and bathroom is hard up against the wall and boundary of N°4. A general level of disturbance may result from their use. Any extension should maintain a distance of a metre from the boundary.

Object, as the proposed extension would project well beyond the back building line and therefore has an adverse impact on the visual appearance from both the canal and playground.

Object as the proposed extension would cause loss of daylight and sunlight to the house and gardens of both N°s 2 & 4.

Object as the proposed extension would result in an unacceptable loss of amenity space to that property.

4/0173/05/ADV Internally illuminated fascia sign at 130 High Street. (EP)

Object as internally illuminated signs are inappropriate for the Conservation Area. However, the plans appear to indicate that the sign would be externally illuminated in which case there would be no objection.

Being a listed building, the plans should have been accompanied by an application for Listed Building Consent.

4/0175/05/FHA First floor rear extension at 2 Chapel Street. (TP)

No Objection

4/0178/05/RET Retention of four portacabins and covered walkway at J Paul Getty Jnr Film Conservation Centre, Kingshill Way. (FB)

No Objection

4/0180/05/RET Retention of storage buildings at J Paul Getty Jnr Film Conservation Centre, Kingshill Way. (FB)

No Objection

4/0182/05/FHA Conservatory at 26 Millfield. (RH)

No Objection

4/0183/05/FHA Replacement single storey rear extension at 81 Charles Street. (RH)

No Objection

4/0196/05/FHA Rear and side dormers and rooflights to front (AMENDED SCHEME) – 48 Durrants Road. (RF)

No Objection

4/0202/05/FUL Guardrail to accessible flat roof, paved patio area, bin enclosure and enclosed yard to flat roof at the Crystal Palace, Station Road. (PN)

No Objection

4/0210/05/FHA Rear dormer and balustrade at 29 Shrublands Avenue. (RF)

The applicant was present to outline the reasons for the application. She said that the intention was to retain and reinstate the original features of the house.

Object as the dormer is too large and should be below the ridge line and that the width should be reduced to minimise the impact on the Conservation Area.

4/0222/05/LBC Demolish and reconstruct section of boundary wall at The Rectory, Rectory Lane. (PN)

No objection. Conditions must be inserted to ensure that existing bricks must be used wherever possible and replacement bricks must match in colour, texture and profile. If the wall is listed, builders should be encouraged to dismantle the wall by hand or by tools held in the hand other than power driven tools. These conditions are to safeguard the historic interest of the wall.

4/0248/05/FHA Two-storey side extension at 26 Upper Ashlyns Road. (FB)

No Objection

4/0251/05/FHA Single storey rear extension and loft conversion with front and rear rooflights (AMENDED SCHEME) – 4 Dellfield Close. (FB)

No Objection

4/0258/05/RET Retention of non-illuminated advertisement sign above shop fascia at Magoos Wine Bar, 262 High Street. (YE)

Object to the visual appearance as it is large and therefore has a highly detrimental impact on the building, the listed buildings opposite and Conservation Area. The Enforcement Officer should continue his action to have the sign removed.

4/0264/05/TCA FOR INFORMATION ONLY – Works to and removal of trees at 23 Kings Road.

No Objection

29/05 PLANNING APPEALS

4/1975,6,7,8/04/ENA

Details of the appeals circulated with the agenda were noted.

30/05 PLANNING DECISIONS

Details of the decisions circulated with the agenda were noted.

30/05 CLOSE OF MEETING

The meeting closed at 8.36 p.m.

Reports and Minutes of the Meeting of

TOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE

Held in the Council Chamber, Civic Centre, Berkhamsted on

Tuesday, 4^th January 2005 at 7.30 p.m.

MEMBERS PRESENT:

Councillors C. Talbot-Ponsonby - Chairman

Geraldine Corry – Vice Chairman

J. Critcher

J. Lythgoe

H. McCloskey

G. Stevens

OFFICER:

Mr. C.R. Westwood – Town Clerk

01/05 APOLOGIES

There were no apologies for absence.

02/05 TO RECEIVE DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST REGARDING ITEMS ON THE AGENDA

There were no declarations of interest regarding items on the agenda.

03/05 MINUTES

The minutes of the previous meeting held on the 13^th December 2004 were agreed and signed by the Chairman.

04/05 MATTERS ARISING

There were no matters arising.

05/05 CHAIRMAN’S COMMUNICATIONS

A letter had been received from Dacorum Borough Council notifying that an appeal had been lodged in respect of planning application 4/2881/04/ENA at the Crystal Palace Public House. A response to the Planning Inspectorate was required by the 24^th January 2005. It was agreed that no further response was necessary.

Notification had been received from Dacorum Borough Council that the appeals in respect of planning applications 4/0439/04/ENA and 4/0440/04/ENA at Bridgewater Boats had been withdrawn.

A paper had been received from the Hertfordshire Association of Town & Parish Councils entitled “The New Planning Challenge” which was available for reference. It was agreed that the paper would be circulated to members of the Committee.

A copy of a letter sent to the Chief Executive, Dacorum Borough Council, had been received from Colin Garrett in respect of planning applications at 77 High Street indicating that a number of local residents and one or more local Councillors were filing complaints with the Local Government Ombudsman alleging maladministration by Dacorum Borough Council and Hertfordshire Highways.

06/05 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

There were six members of the public present.

07/05 EAST OF ENGLAND PLAN – PUBLIC CONSULTATION

The Chairman and Councillor Stevens summarised various aspects of the East of England Plan and said that it was important that the Town Council provided a response. It was agreed that Committee members would study the plan themselves and that the matter would be deferred to the next meeting of the Committee for further discussion. It was further agreed that Chapter 8 which dealt with the Regional Transport Strategy should be referred to the Transport Committee. Councillor McCloskey reminded members that a public meeting hosted by Dacorum Borough Council would be held at the Civic Centre, Berkhamsted, on the 3^rd February 2005.

Action ALL Councillors and Town Clerk

08/05 DACORUM BOROUGH COUNCIL – LOCAL DEVELOPMENT SCHEME

The correspondence circulated with the agenda was noted.

09/05 PLANNING APPLICATIONS

The Committee considered forms and drawings for applications relating to the Town of Berkhamsted which had been received from Dacorum Borough Council up to the date of the meeting and it was

RESOLVED

4/2209/04/FUL AMENDED and/or ADDITIONAL PLANS/INFORMATION – Extension and conversion to two dwellings adj. 3 to 4 Church Gates, Church Lane (FB).

Object on account of the adverse impact on the traffic capacity of the road network. The road is too narrow for more than one car to park beside the conversion that leaves little room for egress. Object on the inadequate level of car parking provision for House 2 with no suitable parking nearby.

4/2526/04/ADV AMENDED and/or ADDITIONAL PLANS/INFORMATION – Internally illuminated shop front fascia sign and projecting sign at 188 High Street. (TP)

No objection

4/2607/04/ADV AMENDED and/or ADDITIONAL PLANS/INFORMATION – Non-illuminated signage at Berkhamsted Sports Centre, Lagley Meadow. (PN)

No objection. The sign should not be positioned in such a way that damage would be caused to existing saplings nor in a position that would require trees to be cut down to create sightlines.

4/2806/04/ROC Removal of conditions 3, 4 and 5 relating to pedestrian and vehicular visibility splays and existing access of planning permission 4/2161/04 (Rear extension, replacement garage and new access) at Morningside, Graemesdyke Road. (BL)

Object to the relaxation of conditions 3 & 4, as visibility splays are required in the interest of highway safety. Object to the relaxation of that part of condition 5 that the existing access point must be closed off permanently as the new single access point would give better sight lines.

4/2807/04/FHA Single storey rear extension and loft conversion, including side dormer with front and rear rooflights at 4 Dellfield Close. (FB)

Object to the side dormer as it is out of scale, which will have an adverse affect on the visual appearance of the street scene. Object to the new velux window with the cabrio balcony on the rear elevation as it would have an adverse impact on the neighbourhood due to its size and design as being clearly visible from Egerton Road & would cause a degree of overlooking to several properties in the area.

4/2814/04/FHA Two-storey rear and side extension (AMENDED SCHEME) at 19A Meadway. (FB)

The applicant was present and explained that the amendment to the plans involved reinstating a double garage in place of the living room.

No objection. Being a quiet residential area a condition should be inserted to direct when the building work may be carried out.

4/2814/04/FHA AMENDED and/or ADDITIONAL PLANS/INFORMATION – Two-storey rear and side extension (AMENDED SCHEME) AT 19A Meadway. (FB)

The applicant was present and explained that the amendment to the plans involved reinstating a double garage in place of the living room.

No objection. Being a quiet residential area a condition should be inserted to direct when the building work may be carried out.

4/2830/04/FUL Demolition of dwelling and construction of two detached dwellings each with an integral granny annex at 6 Murray Road. (RF)

Two local residents were present and said that they had no objection in principle to a development on the site but that the proposals were too large and too high for the area. The following points were made:

1. The impact of construction work would have a detrimental affect on traffic flows in Murray Road.

2. There would be an increase in traffic from the new development and the turning space in the plans was inadequate.

3. The houses were taller than the existing property by 3 metres which would impact on sunlight to the gardens of existing properties and would be out of character with the road.

4. The neighbours at nos. 2 and 4 would suffer from reduced light due to the size of the development.

Object as the Area Based Policy for Castle Hill in the Supplementary Planning Guidance states that redevelopment will not normally be permitted. The proposals contravene these guidelines. Object also as the design of the two houses is incompatible with the other buildings in the road and therefore has a detrimental impact on the visual appearance on the area. The presence of balconies would cause loss of privacy to neighbours by overlooking. The house proposed on Plot 1 at 0.75 metre is closer than the recommended distance of 1 metre

4/2832/04/ROC Removal of condition 4 of planning permission 4/0748/02 (Change of use from class A1 to mixed use of class A1 and class A3) at 146 High Street. (BL)

No objection provided that the chairs and tables remain within their curtilage and do not block the public highway.

4/2845/04/FHA Raised roof, loft conversion with rear dormer at 46 Charles Street. (PN)

No objection

4/2846/04/FHA Raised roof, loft conversion with rear dormer at 48 Charles Street. (PN)

No objection

4/2852/04/FUL Construction of 18 flats with associated parking at Rose Cottage, 17 Bank Mill. (NG)

Object as Bank Mill is characterised by low-density development, comprising mainly large detached or semi-detached dwellings in an informal semi-rural setting. The proposal would result in a dense and cramped form of development that would be out of character with the existing pattern of development and thereby detrimental to the character of the area and the canalside environment. The proposal would therefore be contrary to the aims and objectives of Policies 9, 10, 106, 111 of the Borough Plan and Development Principles in the Residential Character Area BCA3

Object as the road network would not be able to cope with the large number of cars expected to generate from this development. Bank Mill is a narrow road and the site would be accessed from a blind corner over a narrow bridge.

If the application were to be allowed, construction machinery should also be controlled, as the obvious access from both Bank Mill Lane from the bridge and Bank Mill are both very narrow roads without any pavements.

4/2855/04/FHA Two-storey side extension and single storey rear extension (AMENDED SCHEME) at 146 Bridgwater Road. (JA)

No objection

4/2856/04/FUL Construction of two semi-detached houses, parking and access (AMENDED SCHEME) – adj. 1, Eddy Street. (JA)

Object only to the proposed car plots 1 & 2 which should be kept within the rear garden of Eddy Street due to the dangerous consequences of accessing the site from a busy main road which would contravene highway safety. It would also cause problems especially if the outer car owner is absent and leaves little room for egress.

4/2861/04/FHA Two-storey side extension, rear dormer and front roof light at 13 Hillside Gardens. (RH)

There was one member of the public present in respect of this application who declined to make any comment.

Object only to the rear dormer as it would have an overbearing impact on the roof by reason of its scale, design and siting.

4/2864/04/LBC To fit alarm to the front and rear externally and sensors internally at 53 High Street. (YE)

No objection subject to a review of the siting of the second dummy box in the driveway on the south elevation, which would have an adverse affect on the Conservation Area.

4/2868/04/ADV Fascia panels, pod signage and internally illuminated projecting sign at 200 High Street. (RH)

Object to the fascia sign only on account on the visual appearance by its unsympathetic design and scale of lettering. It therefore has a highly detrimental impact on the overall townscape and nearby listed buildings, and is internally illuminated.

4/2870/04/FHA Conservatory at 128 George Street. (BC)

No objection

4/2871/04/FHA Loft Conversion, dormer windows and alterations to fenestration, Cowper House, Cowper Road. (FB).

No objection subject to all new windows matching the existing in design, colour and materials so as not to detrimentally affect the visual appearance of the Conservation Area and to maintain the character of the building.

4/2873/04/FUL Demolition of two dwellings and construction of three dwellings (Amended Scheme) 16 & 18 Ashlyns Road (FB).

No objection

4/2879/04/FHA Two-storey rear extension, rear dormer and small front dormer at 8 Park View Road. (TP)

No objection

It is noted that the site location plan has incorrectly numbered the houses 6 to 14 as 10 to 2, Park View Road.

4/2879/04/FHA AMENDED DESCRIPTION – Two-storey rear extension, rear dormer at 8 Park View Road. (TP)

No objection

It is noted that the site location plan has incorrectly numbered the houses 6 to 14 as 10 to 2, Park View Road.

4/2882/04/FHA Two-storey and single storey side extensions and front and rear extensions at 18 Gilpins Ride. (EP)

No objection

4/2904/04/FHA Single storey side extension at Hanburys, Shootersway. (YE)

No objection

4/2910/04/FUL Replacement dwelling and garage at 88 Kings Road. (JA)

No objection

4/2912/04/FHA Single storey front and two-storey rear extension (AMENDED SCHEME) at 57 Kings Road. (YE)

No objection

4/2922/04/FHA Single storey rear extension at 6 Park Street. (PN)

No objection but conditions will be required to restrict working hours to prevent disruption to neighbours as access can only be gained from the rear of the property.

4/2946/04/TCA FOR INFORMATION ONLY - Fell and replace trees, 1, Elm Court, Elm Grove (BC).

No objection

10/05 PLANNING DECISIONS

The planning decisions were noted.

11/05 CLOSE OF MEETING

The meeting closed at 8.47 p.m.

Reports and Minutes of the Meeting of

TOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE

Held in the Council Chamber, Civic Centre, Berkhamsted on

Monday 5^th January 2004 at 7.30 p.m.

MEMBERS PRESENT:

Councillors C. Talbot-Ponsonby – Chairman

J.D. Lythgoe – Vice-Chairman

J. Critcher

Mrs. H. McCloskey

G. Stevens

OFFICER: Mr. C.R. Westwood – Town Clerk

150/04 APOLOGIES

Apologies for absence were received from Councillor Corry.

151/04 TO RECEIVE DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST REGARDING ITEMS ON THE AGENDA

Councillor Stevens declared a personal interest in application 4/2616/03/FUL and Councillor Lythgoe declared a personal interest in application 4/2697/03/FHA.

152/04 MINUTES

The minutes of the previous meeting held on the 8^th December 2003 were agreed and signed by the Chairman.

153/04 MATTERS ARISING

Vide Item 144/03 – Four new homes in Kings Road

Following discussion it was agreed that in view of previous difficulties in identifying a suitable name the four new houses should be numbered 61, 61A, 61B and 61C Kings Road. The only alternative to this recommendation was the current name of house number 61 which is called Pleasant Hill.

Action Town Clerk

154/03 CHAIRMAN’S COMMUNICATIONS

A letter had been received from Go-East concerning renewable energy and the planning system. The letter and attachment contain feedback following previous consultation conducted in March 2003 and was available for reference.

A letter had been received from Francis Whittaker, Senior Planning Officer, Dacorum Borough Council, together with a register and index map of structure and local plans affecting the Borough and which should be available at all Council offices for inspection by members of the public.

The Chairman referred to recent planning applications at 212-220 High Street (4/1577/03 and 4/1578/03) both of which had been refused but the projecting sign subject to the applications had not been removed. He also referred to recent planning applications at Lloyds Bank, 205 High Street, (4/1266/03 and 4/1438/03) both of which had also been refused but the illuminated collar around the ATM had not been removed. It was agreed that both these matters should be reported to Enforcement Officers at Dacorum Borough Council.

155/04 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

There were eighteen members of the public present, fourteen of whom were interested in planning application 4/2616/03.

156/04 PLANNING APPLICATIONS

The Committee considered forms and drawings for applications relating to the Town of Berkhamsted which had been received from Dacorum Borough Council up to the date of the meeting and it was

RESOLVED

4/2307/03/FUL AMENDED PLANS - Change of use from Children’s Nursery to restaurant/take away at ex tool hire premises, Berkhamsted Station, Lower Kings Road. (SS)

Recommended for Approval

4/2355/03/FHA AMENDED PLANS – Two storey side extension at 37A Kings Road. (TP)

Two members of the public were present to object to this application. Their main concern was that there should be a one-metre gap between the extension and the boundary.

Recommended for Refusal on the grounds of the proximity of the extension to the boundary fence and that any extension should be kept back by at least a metre to enable maintenance and prevent overhanging of gutters etc.

4/2570/03/ADV Advertisement signage (non-illuminated) at The Crooked Billet Public House, Gossoms End. (SS)

Recommended for Approval subject to a condition being imposed stipulating that the sign is removed as soon as the developer leaves the site or whenever the houses are all sold, whichever is the earlier.

As previously requested the Town Council would ask that it is consulted with regard to the naming procedure for these houses as the access to the road is in Berkhamsted and not Northchurch.

4/2594/03/TPO Works to trees at 1 Priory Gardens. (TP)

Recommended for Approval

4/2595/03/TPO Works to tree at 4 Millfield. (TP)

Recommended for Approval

4/2596/03/TPO Works to tree at Eden House, Shootersway Lane. (BC)

Recommended for Approval

4/2601/03/FHA Single storey and two storey side extensions at 19 Hall Park. (BR)

Recommended for Approval

4/2615/03/FHA Front extension at 48 Valley Road. (SS)

Recommended for Approval

4/2616/03/FUL Two detached houses and four garages (amended scheme) land rear of Hillcroft, Kingsdale Road. (AP)

There were 13 members of the public present to object to this application. Their spokesperson said that this was the third application, the previous two having been refused. The residents did not consider that the changes made to the plans were sufficient to affect the previous recommendations. The development was inappropriate in terms of space, density, height, character, loss of privacy and the overbearing impact on adjacent dwellings.

The applicant was also present and spoke in favour of the application. He said that the plans had been changed to make them more acceptable to local residents. He produced a report and a plan which he circulated to members of the committee and urged them to support the application.

Recommended for Refusal due to the adverse effect on the character of the area and the over-dominance the proposed houses would have on both Hillcroft and numbers 51 and 53 Kings Road. Two houses in a plot of less than 0.2 of a hectare are in excess of the eight dwellings per hectare in the supplementary guidance (over-development).

4/2627/03/FHA Two storey side extension 54 Durrants Lane. (JA)

There were two members of the public present to object to this application on the grounds that there would still be a loss of light from the adjacent angled wall and the design should include a hipped roof.

Recommended for Refusal on the grounds of over-development of the site and loss of light onto principle windows in the north elevation of number 56, aggravated by the proposed porch and utility room extensions.

The proposed extractor duct from the kitchen would cause considerable disturbance by its use and closeness to the neighbour’s kitchen door.

Any side extension should be at least one metre from the boundary retaining wall to prevent damage during construction of the foundations and so that maintenance can be carried out to the single storey side extension.

4/2633/03/DRC Details of external lighting scheme required by condition 8 of advertisement consent 4/2057/03 (Replacement fascia signage, relocation of menu box, provision of four uplighters and heritage plaque) at 145 High Street. (RF)

Recommended for Approval

4/2634/03/DRC Details of external lighting scheme required by condition 4 of listed building consent 4/2058/03 (Replacement fascia signage, relocation of menu box, provision of four uplighters and heritage plaque) at 145 High Street. (RF)

Recommended for Approval

4/2650/03/FHA First floor front and rear extensions and alterations at 19 Castle Hill. (RF)

Recommended for Approval

4/2654/03/FUL Replacement dwelling at 9 Gilpins Ride. (JA)

Recommended for Approval

4/2681/03/FUL Detached house and garage (AMENDED SCHEME) at land at 1 Bridgewater Road. (AP)

Recommended for Refusal as the proposed development would result in long term damage to the health of a protected Ash tree, in contravention of the Tree Preservation Order (Land at the rear of 1-27 Bridgewater Road and 5 Castle Hill Close, Berkhamsted) 1989.

The work so far carried out to excavate soil have resulted in the severance and desiccation of a large number of tree roots in contravention of conditions 3 and 4 of planning permission 4/0046/03/FUL granted on 27^th March 2003. The proposed garage is unacceptable, as long-term damage has occurred which needs to be reinstated to aid recovery of the tree.

The proposal is contrary to policies 8 and 94 of the Dacorum Borough Local Plan and policies 9 and 100 of the Dacorum Borough Local Plan 1991-2011 Deposit Draft, which seek to retain and protect trees in all new developments.

4/2683/03/TCA FOR INFORMATION ONLY - Works to trees at 29 Ellesmere Road. (BC)

No Observations

4/2688/03/FHA Loft conversion with rear dormer at 2 Chapel Street. (TP)

Recommended for Refusal as the proposed dormer is too large and being part of a semi-detached would have an over-bearing affect on the building. The two dormers on the front elevation, being at different angles, would have an over-bearing affect on this attractive pair of houses.

4/2689/03/TPO Works to trees at Berkhamsted Collegiate School, Kings Road. (BC)

Recommended for Approval subject to recommendation by the Tree Officer.

4/2697/03/FHA Single storey side extension at 2 Tennis Court Cottages, Lower Kings Road. (YE)

Recommended for Approval

It was noted by members of the committee that the plans include a new first floor balcony, which has not been included in the application.

4/2727/03/FHA Single storey side extension, porch infill and new driveway, 129 Cross Oak Road (BR).

Recommended for Approval

4/2730/03/TPO Fell oak tree, 15 Barncroft Road (BC).

Recommended for Approval

157/04 PLANNING DECISIONS

The planning decisions circulated with the agenda were noted.

158/04 CLOSE OF MEETING

The meeting closed at 8.29 p.m.