Issue - meetings

Section 73 application to vary condition 22 (approved plans) of planning permission TM/18/02268/FL (as amended by ref. TM/23/00661/NMA, TM/23/00915/NMA and TM/25/01464/NMA) for alterations to the approved scheme to comprise of the removal of one home, layout and elevation changes, internal layout changes and confirmation of the final affordable housing mix.

Section 73 application to vary condition 22 (approved plans) of planning permission TM/18/02268/FUL (as amended by ref. TM/23/00661/NMA, TM23/00915/NMA and TM/25/01464/NMA) for alterations to the approved scheme to comprise of the removal of one home, layout and elevation changes, internal layout changes and confirmation of the final affordable housing mix.

Due regard was given to the determining issues, conditions, reasons and informatives detailed in the report of the Director of Planning, Housing and Regulatory Services.  The comments received from Wrotham Parish Council, as summarised in the supplementary report, and the views of public speakers were also taken into account.

Members raised a number of concerns, including previous concern about over-capacity on the site, noting that the application reduced the number of units by one, significant changes to the proposed scheme, especially regarding the retention of properties for the over 55s and loss of shared ownership.  There was discussion about strengthening informatives to encourage representation for the over 55s.

Furthermore, concern was expressed regarding anti-social behaviour, the tenure mix and the percentage of affordable housing in Wrotham Village compared to other areas of the borough, which failed to support balanced, well-designed communities.

Following debate, it was proposed by Councillor R Betts, seconded by Cllr M Taylor, and the Committee

RESOLVED: That the application be REFUSED for the following reason:

1.               The proposed development by reason of the mix of affordable housing tenure would not result in a mixed and balanced community and would be contrary to paragraphs 8(b), 66 and 135(f) of the National Planning Policy Framework 2024.

[Speakers: Councillor P Gillin (on behalf of Wrotham Parish Council), County Councillor H Rayner, Kent County Council Member for Malling West (member of the public) and Mr S Walker (applicant) addressed the Committee in person.]