The Planning and Development Committee of Ribble Valley Council met on Thursday, 27 June 2024, to discuss various planning applications and policy updates. Key decisions included the approval of planning permissions for Longridge High School and the Ambulance Shed at Longridge Depot, the refusal of planning permission for properties in Clitheroe, and the deferral of a decision regarding land off Chapel Hill. The committee also approved budget slippage for the capital programme and updates to the Planning Enforcement Policy.

Longridge High School Planning Application

The committee approved the planning application for Longridge High School on Preston Road, Longridge. The development includes new fencing and gates, a new vehicular access, and off-site highway improvements. Conditions were imposed to ensure the development adheres to specific plans and materials, and to protect trees during construction. The new access will be restricted to grounds maintenance and emergency service vehicles only.

Ambulance Shed at Longridge Depot

Planning permission was granted for the Ambulance Shed at Longridge Depot on Dixon Road, Longridge. The development must begin within three years and follow the specified plans and materials. Trees on the site will be protected during construction.

Refusal of Planning Permission in Clitheroe

The committee refused planning permission for two properties in Clitheroe:

• Ground Floor Unit and First Floor Flat at 27-29 Bawdlands: The application was opposed by Mrs C Houlker and Councillor J Hill. The committee was minded to refuse the application due to concerns about occupancy levels and the impact on living conditions and surrounding properties. However, the application was withdrawn shortly after the meeting.
• 29 Castle View: The application was opposed by Mr J Smyth and Councillor J Hill. The committee refused the application, citing conflicts with the Ribble Valley Core Strategy policies DMG1, DMB1, and DMB3. Concerns included the intensity of use, parking provision, and the impact on residential character and amenities.

Deferral of Chapel Hill Application

The committee deferred the application for land off Chapel Hill in Longridge to seek amended plans that include the reinstatement of a previously approved pond.

Capital Outturn 2023/24

The committee reviewed the final outturn of the 2023/24 capital programme and approved the slippage of £20,370 from the 'Planning Portal Link and Planning System Update' capital scheme budget to the 2024/25 financial year. This budget will be used for any upgrades or other capital expenditures needed on the current planning software system.

Scheme of Delegation and Code of Conduct

The committee approved the proposed Scheme of Delegation for Planning and Development and the Code of Conduct for Planning, with an amendment to clarify the receipt of ten or more objections. These will be recommended for adoption by the council.

Planning Enforcement Policy Review

The committee approved amendments to the Planning Enforcement Policy 2022-2025, following changes to the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. Members emphasised the importance of proactive enforcement action by the council.

Appointment of Working Groups

The committee approved the continuation of the Local Development Plan Working Group for 2024/25, with membership consisting of representatives from the Conservative, Labour, Lib Dem, Independent, and Progressive Liberal/Green groups.

General Permitted Development Order Changes

The committee was updated on changes to the General Permitted Development Order (GDPO) as of 21 May 2024.

Planning Application Statistics Quarterly Report

The committee reviewed the quarterly report on planning application statistics, noting that the Local Planning Authority met government performance targets for determining applications in the 'Major', 'Minor', and 'Other' categories during Q4 of 2023/24. The percentage of appeals allowed was slightly higher than the target, but overall performance on appeals was satisfactory.

Planning Enforcement Update

The committee was updated on planning enforcement, with 101 live enforcement matters and 54 new complaints received between 3 January 2024 and 22 May 2024.

For more details, you can refer to the Minutes of the Meeting and other related documents such as the Committee Appeals Update and the Public Reports Pack.