Agenda item

This planning application related to a hybrid planning application comprising: full planning application for the erection of one industrial and logistics unit within Use Classes E(g)(iii), B2, and B8 together with access, parking and landscaping and Outline application (all matters reserved) for the erection of up to 19,000 sqm of flexible industrial and logistics floor space within Use Classes E(g)(iii), B2, and B8 following demolition of existing buildings on land at Watchmoor Park.

The Committee was satisfied with the application and officer’s report and believed it was an effective way forward regarding the creation of jobs and use of the site.

Members queried if a prospective buyer had been identified for the site and it was confirmed that a specific buyer had not been secured.

The case officer confirmed that this application would create 511 full-time equivalent jobs and an additional 137 jobs during the construction phase.

The officer recommendation to approve the application subject to conditions and a legal agreement was proposed by Councillor Mary Glauert, seconded by Councillor Murray Rowlands, put to the vote and carried.

RESOLVED that application 23/1100/FFU be granted, subject to conditions and a legal agreement.

NOTE 1

It was noted for the record that Councillors Cliff Betton, Shaun Garrett, Mary Glauert, Liz Noble, David O’Mahoney, Murray Rowlands, David Whitcroft, Helen Whitcroft, Valerie White and Richard Wilson had all received correspondence from the Agent for the application (23/1100/FFU), but had all come to the meeting with an open mind.

NOTE 2

Councillor Murray Rowlands declared he had been on an unofficial visit to the site.

NOTE 3

Councillor Cliff Betton declared for the record that his business is located in Watchmoor Park, but was not connected to this application.

NOTE 4

In line with Part 4, Section D, Paragraph 18 of the constitution, the voting in relation to the application was as follows:

All Committee Members present voted in favour of the officer recommendation to grant the application, subject to conditions and a legal agreement.