The meeting focused on a planning application for a single three-bedroom dwelling at Brooksby Road, Hoby. The council discussed various concerns, including flood risks, sustainability, and the alignment with local and neighborhood plans. The application was ultimately approved with specific conditions to address flooding and drainage concerns.

Flooding Concerns

The primary concern was the risk of flooding at the site. Local residents and the parish council provided evidence of repeated flooding in the area, arguing that the site is unsuitable for development. The council acknowledged these concerns but noted that the site is classified as Flood Zone 1 by the Environment Agency, indicating a low risk of flooding. An additional condition was added to ensure that the development does not increase flood risk elsewhere by maintaining Greenfield runoff rates.

Sustainability

Several councillors raised the issue of sustainability, questioning whether the development meets the criteria set out in Policy SS3 of the local plan and Policy 14 of the neighborhood plan. The council debated whether the site is in a sustainable location, given its limited access to public transport and local amenities. However, the neighborhood plan allows for development on the edge of the settlement, and the planning inspector had previously deemed the site suitable for growth.

Planning Conditions

To address the flooding and drainage concerns, the council amended Condition 10.14 to include specific requirements for the disposal of foul and surface water. The condition now mandates that the development must not increase the risk of flooding elsewhere and must maintain Greenfield runoff rates. An additional condition was also added to ensure that the finished ground levels and sections of the site are approved before construction begins.

Decision

The council voted to approve the planning application with the amended and additional conditions. The decision was made despite significant local opposition, based on the classification of the site as Flood Zone 1 and the alignment with the neighborhood plan.

Key Points Discussed

• Flooding Evidence: Local residents provided photographic evidence of flooding, but the site is officially classified as Flood Zone 1.
• Sustainability: The council debated whether the site meets the sustainability criteria but ultimately deferred to the neighborhood plan.
• Planning Conditions: Specific conditions were added to address flood risks and ensure proper drainage.
• Approval: The application was approved with the conditions, despite local opposition.

The meeting concluded with a reminder for mandatory training for council members immediately following the session.