The Central North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee met on Wednesday 19 August 2026. The committee approved a retrospective planning application for the change of use of a garage to an independent residential dwelling at Jersey Farmhouse, Marston Road, Granborough. Three applications were withdrawn from the agenda: one for Cobb Hall Road in Newton Longville due to its impact on the local community, and two for Bearton in Bandits Way, and another for Land off Barnett Way, Bierton, due to the recent publication of a new National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) requiring a review of reports and recommendations.

Jersey Farmhouse, Marston Road, Granborough

The committee approved the retrospective application for the change of use of a garage to an independent residential dwelling at Jersey Farmhouse, Marston Road, Granborough. The applicant, Mr Philip Gomm, is a Ward Councillor for Buckinghamshire Council, which necessitated the application being brought before the committee for transparency. The proposal involved the conversion of an existing single-storey brick-built building within the curtilage of Jersey Farmhouse.

The officer's report stated that the proposal was considered policy-compliant and recommended approval subject to conditions. These conditions included requirements for the provision of electric vehicle charging points, secure cycle parking, details of boundary treatments, and the removal of permitted development rights for certain enclosures to maintain the rural setting.

During the debate, Councillor Raj Khan BEM raised questions about the application of the Human Rights Act and Equality Act, which the officer confirmed had been considered. Councillor Andy Huxley questioned whether the application would have been heard at committee if the applicant were not a member of the council, to which the officer confirmed it would have been dealt with under delegated powers. Councillor Frank Mahon (Vice-Chairman) sought clarification on the removal of permitted development rights and the requirement for cycle parking, which the officer explained. Councillor Phil Gomm asked about the timing of the conversion, and the officer confirmed it was not done under permitted development rights.

Councillor Cameron Anderson (Reform UK Group Leader) moved the officer's recommendation, expressing concerns about the constitutional process for member applications, which he felt was a waste of resources. Councillor Robin Stuchbury seconded the motion, acknowledging the need for transparency and adherence to the council's constitution. Councillor Chris Poll moved to go to the vote, which was seconded by Councillor Caroline Cornell. The recommendation was approved unanimously.

Withdrawn Applications

The committee noted the withdrawal of three applications from the agenda. The application for Cobb Hall Road in Newton Longville was withdrawn due to its impact on the local community. The applications for Bearton in Bandits Way and Land off Barnett Way, Bierton, were withdrawn due to the recent issuance of a new National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). The committee was informed that officers needed time to review reports and recommendations to ensure accuracy against the revised national policy position. A training session would be provided to members on the changes to the NPPF.

Other Business

The committee received apologies from Councillor Gormann and Councillor Munger. The minutes of the meeting held on 22 July 2026 were confirmed. The Chairman noted that all members were aware of the applicant for the Jersey Farmhouse application, being a fellow councillor, and confirmed that all members had an open mind to determine the application.