Agenda item

The application was for the change of use of first floor from C3 (residential) to B1 (offices) and use of land to rear for parking in connection with the first floor offices and ground floor estate agency.

This application would normally have been determined under the Council’s Scheme of Delegation for Officers, however, it was reported to the Planning Applications Committee at the request of Cllr Paul Deach.

Members received the following update:

‘Kevin Cantlon, the Economic Development Officer, has written the following in support of the application:

Luff and Wilkin is a local company owned and run by local people who have made a commitment to the borough over a number of years. They provide employment to local people and will add additional staff numbers should their application prove successful. Each local job filled in the borough contributes in excess of £51,000 to the UK economy.

It is likely that any future employees of Luff & Wilkin will use the amenities in Frimley Green for things such as shopping and lunchtime activities, thereby helping to support the village economy.

Over the course of the next few years significant housing expansion of Deepcut, one mile away, is planned. As a property and estate agent Luff and Wilkin would be well placed to handle some of the new residential sales and lettings business for the new development, which could potentially bring about expansion of the company thus creating more jobs.’

The Ward Councillor addressed the Committee and praised the work of the planning officers.  However, it was noted that with regard to this application, the applicant had contributed to the business in the area and this proposal would provide much needed part time positions. This was particularly relevant to the large military community nearby. There was some concern about parking but it was felt that the benefit to the economy outweighed the loss of the residential unit.

Resolved that application 16/1063 be approved subject to conditions, the final wording to be finalised after consultation with the Chairman and Vice Chairman.

Note 1

It was noted for the record that:

·     Councillor Vivienne Chapman declared that the applicant was a close friend and left the Chamber during the consideration of the application;

·     Councillor Paul Ilnicki declared that he knew the applicant.

Note 2

The recommendation to refuse the application was proposed by Councillor Victoria Wheeler and seconded by Councillor Pat Tedder.

Note 3

In accordance with Part 4, Section D, paragraph 18 of the Constitution, the voting in relation to the application was as follows:

Voting in favour of the recommendation to refuse the application:

Councillors Paul Ilnicki, Pat Tedder and Victoria Wheeler.

Voting against the recommendation to refuse the application:

Councillors Richard Brooks, Nick Chambers, Edward Hawkins, Jonathan Lytle, Katia Malcaus Cooper, David Mansfield, Max Nelson, Adrian Page, Ian Sams and Conrad Sturt.

The motion was lost.

Note 4

The recommendation to approve the application was proposed by Councillor David Mansfield and seconded by Councillor Richard Brooks.

Note 5

In accordance with Part 4, Section D, paragraph 18 of the Constitution, the voting in relation to the application was as follows:

Voting in favour of the recommendation to approve the application:

Councillors Richard Brooks, Nick Chambers, Edward Hawkins, Jonathan Lytle, Katia Malcaus Cooper, David Mansfield, Max Nelson, Adrian Page, Ian Sams and Conrad Sturt.

Voting against the recommendation to approve the application:

Councillors Paul Ilnicki, Pat Tedder and Victoria Wheeler.

The motion was carried.