Redevelopment of the site to provide 165 residential units in 2 buildings both part 4/5 storeys in height

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

The Principal Planning Officer (AC) explained that the proposal was for the redevelopment of the site to provide 165 residential units in 2 buildings both part 4 / 5 storeys in height, with 150 car parking spaces, communal landscaped amenity areas, secure cycle parking and other associated development.

Attention was drawn to the update sheet which noted that a further objection had been received following the publication of the agenda.  The objections had already been addressed in the report.

The Chair invited Mark Foster, a local resident, to speak to the committee.  Before he set out his objection to the application Mr Foster questioned one of the images shown during the officer’s presentation.  The Principal Planning Officer clarified the design in relation to Codicote Drive.

Mr Foster stated that the new buildings would have a dominant effect on residents of Codicote Drive.  There would be a loss of privacy and the flats would overlook the smaller homes.  The new buildings would be higher than those already on the site.  In addition he referenced the traffic situation on this part of St Albans Road, which during peak hours was over 20% capacity.  It was a severely congested area.  He felt that the level of car ownership had been severely underestimated.  Mr Foster also made reference to climate change impact and the density of the site.

The Chair invited Mark Jackson, representing Fairview Homes, to speak to the committee.  Mr Jackson stated that the application would bring much needed homes to the area.  It would be built on a brownfield site.  The proposal incorporated a range of accommodation.  The company had worked with the planning officers over a period of time to achieve the best possible scheme for the site.  The proposal had a strong frontage and reinforced the street scene.  It was a gateway site to Watford.  The application met the council’s development standards and made the best use of the site.  They had maximised sunlight to the properties.  He highlighted the local public transport availability, plus a car club would be included that would be free to residents onsite and those in the local area.  He referred to the public consultation and the 23 responses received.  There had been some positive comments but also concerns about parking and traffic.  He urged the committee to support the application.

The Chair invited Meriden Ward Councillor Jennifer Pattinson to speak to the committee.  Councillor Pattinson acknowledged that the site should be developed for housing.  During the consultation residents had been very vocal in opposition to the proposals.  She felt the applicant had failed to engage with the community.  She referred to the comments about transport links and how the area was frequently grid locked.  The applicant had mentioned the Abbey Flyer train, however this was only suitable for leisure use and not a commuter train due to its infrequency.  It was not safe  ...  view the full minutes text for item 34