Following a hearing held on 5th July 2007 planning permission has been allowed for the demolition of an existing dwelling and erection of 14 No.2 bed flats in Warlingham, Surrey.

The Inspector considered two main issues prior to determining the appeal. Firstly, the effect of the proposal on the character and appearance of the area and secondly, the effect of the proposal on access and refuse collection.

With regard to the first issue the Inspector found that the design proposed for the appeal building was interesting and imaginative. In response to the lack of flatted development in the area the Inspector found that the appeal proposal would contribute to a mixture of dwelling types in the area.

With regard to the contemporary design proposed the Inspector also saw no need to seek to replicate the style or form of existing dwellings.

The Inspector stated the following at Paragraph 12 of the decision notice:

"Overall, therefore, I consider that, while the proposed building, set in an elevated position, would be more visible in varying degrees from both public and private domains it would not appear unduly prominent or intrusive. The contemporary design would contrast in style and form with existing development but, taking account of its bulk and scale, I do not agree that the proposed building would appear unduly incongruous in this location or unacceptably damaging to visual amenity. Indeed, I consider that the proposal would respect the characteristics of the wooded site and integrate with its surroundings satisfactorily."

With regard to the close proximity of the proposal to the Green Belt the Inspector stated the following at Paragraph 13:

"The proposed larger building would be closer to the Green Belt boundary. However, bearing in mind its design, materials and wooded setting, I do not consider that the proposal would harm the visual amenities of the adjoining Green Belt land unduly or create too hard an edge to the area in comparison with the current situation."

With regard to the second issue, the highways concerns were withdrawn by the Council following the receipt of revised drawings and the imposition of necessary Highways conditions.

For further infomation regarding this case please contact either Brian Woods or Richard Green at the office (WS Planning Ref: TAN/471/BW/RG/C22).