Agenda item

Erection of an additional storey above the existing roof level to allow additional B1 office floorspace, and associated alterations.

(Planning application number: P2018/2849/FUL)

In the discussion the following points were made:

·         The Planning Officer advised members that no additional updates had been received since the publication of the agenda.

·         The meeting was informed that results from the submitted daylight assessment indicate that where losses did occur it was acceptable and within the BRE Guidelines. Members were informed that it was noticeable that windows located in proximity to the application site such as No.27 and No.28 Myddelton Street would not be unreasonably impacted beyond its existing situation.

·         An objector was concerned that the proposal would impact the amenity of  neighbouring properties; overlooking concerns with regards to the communal gardens and their loss of privacy; daylight sunlight loss and the historical impact on the character of the property and surrounds.

·         In response to objectors concerns about loss of privacy, the agent advised that condition 10 provides details of the visual privacy screening which will be submitted for approval and prior to it being used and condition 11 will restrict the hours of operation of the roof terrace.

·         Members welcomed the design and importantly applicant’s decision to use similar brickwork to match the existing appearance of the building, however concerns were raised about the purpose of the roof terrace despite the proposed hours of operation as noted in condition 11. Members acknowledged the sunlight and daylight loss concerns but regarded it as not significant to affect neighbouring amenity.

·         Members were concerned with the roof terrace and its use by office employees and the difficulty of monitoring and enforcing its use. Members noted the screening details, however suggested that notwithstanding a new condition be included stating that both the roof terrace and flat roof areas at rear first and second floor level cannot be used as roof terraces or sitting out spaces other than for essential maintenance or repair, or escape in case of emergency.

·           Members agreed suggested condition 10 (details of screening) and Condition 11 (hours of use/operation for the terrace) should be deleted.

·         Councillor Convery proposed a motion to include a condition which restricts the use of both the roof terrace and the flat roof as amenity space. This was seconded by Councillor Mackmurdie and carried.

ADDITIONAL CONDITION RESTRICTING USE OF REAR FLAT ROOF AREAS: Notwithstanding the hereby approved plans including drawing numbers 17.235.102 Existing and Proposed 1st Floor Plan, 17.235.103 Existing and Proposed 2nd Floor Plan & 17.235.104 Existing and Proposed Roof Plan no permission is granted for any use of the rear flat roof areas at first and second floor levels as any form of amenity or sitting out space of any kind whatsoever and shall not be used other than for essential maintenance or repair, or escape in case of emergency. 

REASON: To prevent the undue overlooking, loss of privacy and noise and disturbances to adjoining residential properties.

RESOLVED:

That following consideration of the case officer’s report (the assessment and recommendations therein), the presentation to Committee, submitted representations and objections provided verbally at this meeting, planning permission be granted subject to the conditions, and informatives set out in Appendix 1 of the officer report with the deletion of suggested conditions 10 & 11 and an additional condition as stated above.