Issue - meetings

Hybrid planning application: comprising detailed planning application for the demolition of existing buildings and erection of 1,214 residential units, flexible commercial floorspace and a new energy centre (sui generis). Outline planning application (all matters reserved except access) for the erection of a 2 form entry primary school and nursery

The committee received the report of the Interim Head of Development Management, including the relevant planning history of the site.

The Development Management Team Leader introduced the report advising that this was a hybrid planning application.  It comprised a detailed application for the demolition of the existing buildings and erection of 1,214 residential units and commercial floor space, a new energy centre and associated car and cycle parking, landscaping and highway works.  In addition, an outline planning application sought the erection of a two form entry primary school and nursery with associated car parking and landscaping.

The Chair invited Moustafa Alam, a local resident, to speak to the committee.  Mr Alam stated that the development was unlawful.  He had circulated a report to the committee which provided detailed reasons.  He noted that there had been 162 objections to the application and it should not go ahead.  The tallest buildings were twice the height of the tower blocks in Meriden.  It was not necessary to build 20% of the council’s housing requirements so quickly without the relevant infrastructure in place.  He commented that the original Watford Junction development brief had included more parking.  There was no reference to parking for commercial vehicles.  There was reference to the consultation for a Controlled Parking Zone (CPZ) in Callowland, but this had not yet been completed.  Mr Alam mentioned the state of traffic in the area.  He stated that the application would add extra growth during peak travel times.  There would be a strain on public services, including GP surgeries and local schools.  The trains at Watford junction were already packed at peak times.  He put forward various changes that should be made to the application before it was considered or approved.

Following comments about the CPZ consultation and commercial vehicles the Chair asked the Development Management Team Leader to clarify the position.  The Development Management Team Leader confirmed that there was a consultation in Callowland about a new CPZ.  If the CPZ went ahead and this application was approved, residents on this site would not be able to apply as it was outside the CPZ area.  With regard to commercial vehicles, they would be able to enter the undercroft area on the site.  There would be a dedicated bin collection area; delivery area; 24-hour concierge and parcels would be collected for residents and held for them to collect.  Work had been carried out with Veolia, the council’s waste contractor, and transport consultants to ensure the facilities met the required needs.

The Chair invited Daniel Massie, representing Berkeley Homes, to speak to the committee.  Mr Massie commented that the company believed in partnership working.  Representatives had met various groups including residents.  87% of the proposed housing would be for families.  The company would be fully funding the new primary school.  They had engaged with local business groups.  The proposal was in a highly sustainable location.  It was recognised that traffic congestion was a major issue and therefore low levels of parking had been  ...  view the full minutes text for item 35