The Sandwell Council Planning Committee met to discuss several planning applications, decisions of the Planning Inspectorate, and applications determined under delegated powers. The committee approved applications for extensions and changes of use, while also deferring one application for a site visit. They also noted the decisions of the Planning Inspectorate and applications determined under delegated powers.

71-73 Bromford Lane, West Bromwich

The committee considered planning application DC/25/70439 for the retention of a single-storey rear extension for storage, a proposed single-storey extension for storage, and the addition of an ancillary hot food takeaway at 71-73 Bromford Lane in West Bromwich. The committee had deferred making a decision at its last meeting to clarify details about the existing use of 73 Bromford Lane.

The application was brought to the committee due to an objection and a petition containing nine signatures. Concerns were raised that the extension at number 71 would be used as a restaurant and exacerbate parking issues.

The planning officer's report noted that historically, both properties had a retail use. Planning permission for the Indian sweet shop at number 71, with an ancillary seating area, was granted in 2012 (ref: DC/12/54277), with the sale of hot snacks being ancillary to the primary retail use.

The committee granted planning permission subject to conditions relating to:

• External materials for number 73
• Restriction of use of extended areas to storage use only
• Restriction on hours of construction

4 and 4A Wharfedale Street, Wednesbury

The committee considered planning applications DC/25/70518 and DC/25/70519 for 4 Wharfedale Street and 4A Wharfedale Street in Wednesbury. Both applications proposed changing the use of the 4-bedroom houses (Class C3¹) into residential homes (Class C2²) for up to three children.

The applications were brought to the committee due to four material planning objections and a request from the local ward member, Councillor Luke Giles, who raised concerns about the appropriateness of the location for this type of proposal.

The committee granted planning permission for both applications, subject to conditions relating to:

• Submission of a noise assessment and implementation thereafter
• A management plan (including security, lighting, and CCTV)
• Details of new boundary walls and fences
• Restricting each premises to a residential home for three children and up to four staff, with the option to revert back to a dwellinghouse (C3) on cessation of the C2 use
• Implementation and retention of parking

The planning officer's report noted that the Head of Highways raised no objections, given the town centre location of the properties, local public car parks, and transport links. West Midlands Police recommended a management plan including CCTV, lighting, and security.

16 Tapestries Avenue, West Bromwich

The committee discussed planning application DC/25/70522 for a proposed single-storey side and rear extension, front porch, and outbuilding in the rear garden at 16 Tapestries Avenue in West Bromwich.

At the last meeting, members resolved to visit the site. The application was brought to the committee because six material planning objections had been received.

The committee resolved to defer consideration of the application to allow members to visit the site.

Decisions of the Planning Inspectorate

The committee noted the decision of the Planning Inspectorate regarding an appeal against the refusal of planning permission for 43 Gospel Oak Road in Tipton (DC/25/70197). The appeal was dismissed.

The inspector's decision stated that the main issue was the effect of the development on the character and appearance of the area. The inspector found that the tall, rendered pillars and solid gates were incongruous and harmed the character and appearance of the area, contrary to the National Planning Policy Framework, Policy ENV3 of the Black Country Core Strategy (2011), and Policy SAD EOS9 of the Sandwell Site Allocations and Delivery Development Plan Document (2012).

Taking all of this into account, I find that the development harms the character and appearance of the area, contrary to the National Planning Policy Framework; to Policy ENV3 of the Black Country Core Strategy (2011); and to Policy SAD EOS9 of the Sandwell Site Allocations and Delivery Development Plan Document (2012), which together amongst other things, seek to protect local character.

Applications Determined Under Delegated Powers

The committee noted the applications determined under delegated powers by the Service Director (Planning), as set out in the Delegated List 08.07.25 - 18.08.25.