3 Planning Application SDC/20CC003 PDF 262 KB
Planning Application details, including all documents and plans, can be found via the following link - Planning Application SDC/20CC003
Additional documents:
Minutes:
Jasbir Kaur, Strategic Planning and Development Manager presented the report to the Committee confirming that the application included the creation of two ponds and a butterfly bank.
The Committee noted that the development would be funded by the Offset Scheme; funds paid by developers after the loss of ecology due to development that are to be used elsewhere to mitigate the loss. It was confirmed that Warwickshire County Council, who manages the offset fund, look for sites close to the original development but that this is not always possible. It was confirmed that the Council maintains a list of willing landowners for offset scheme developments. Following a request from the Committee it was agreed that information in relation to the identification of sites where the fund could be used will be circulated to members of the Committee.
The following points were highlighted to the Committee –
· The topsoil from the creation of the two ponds will be used to form a new community orchard
· The ponds will support the development of a positive environment for great crested newts
· The development is in accordance with Green Belt development
· The site will enhance biodiversity in the area
· The application complies will all planning related policies at Stratford District Council and Warwickshire County Council
Paul Wilcox, Senior Planner (contractor) confirmed that the site would initially be managed by Warwickshire County Council before being handed over to the charity Forrest of Hearts once the establishment period is complete. Following a question from the Chair it was agreed that the long-term action plan for the application site will be circulated to members of the Committee.
Councillor Anne Parry stated that the site was part of her division and that she sat on Snitterfield Parish Council (SPC). SPC feel that the application is positive and welcome the biodiversity that it will bring to the area.
The recommendation was proposed by Councillor John Cooke and was seconded by Councillor Anne Parry. A vote was held, and the Committee voted unanimously in favour of the recommendation to grant planning permission.
Resolved
That the Regulatory Committee authorises the grant of planning permission for the creation and management of 2 no. wildlife ponds and butterfly bank on farmland as part of the Warwickshire, Coventry and Solihull great crested newt conservation strategy at Forest of Hearts, Gospel Oak Lane, Pathlow, Stratford upon Avon, subject to the conditions and for the reasons within the Appendix B.