Agenda item

5.       REVIEW OF 23/00011/RREF

5.1     There had been circulated copies of a request from Alistair Hodgson, per Camerons Strachan Yuill Architects, 9 West Street, Berwick-Upon-Tweed to review the decision to refuse the planning application in respect of the installation of photo voltaic array to roof at Scott House, Douglas Square, Newcastleton.  The supporting papers included the Notice of Review; papers referred to in the Officer’s Report and Consultation Replies.

5.2     Members noted that the property was within Newcastleton Conservation Area but was not a listed building.  It was further noted that the photo voltaic panels were proposed on the south facing roof slope of the terraced property which was located within Douglas Square. The Review Body understood that Policies PMD2, EP9 and 7 required an alteration appropriate to the existing building, compatible with the character of its surroundings and preserving the special architectural character and appearance of the Conservation Area. However, Members also noted strong support for domestic renewable energy schemes at a national level which was reflected in Local Development Plan Policy ED9 and Policy 11.   Members considered whether there were less visible alternatives for the panels but also accepted that, as required by Policy 7, the applicant was providing mitigation in the form of in-roof flush-fitting photo voltaic panels. This was considered an innovative method of fitting panels of lower visual impact and intrusion, minimising the impact on the Conservation Area

              VOTE

Councillor Mountford, seconded by Councillor Richards, moved that the officer’s decision be upheld and the application refused.

Councillor Thomson, seconded by Councillor Cox moved as an amendment that the officer’s decision be overturned and the application approved.

On a show of hands Members voted as follows:-

Motion             - 3 votes

Amendment     - 4 votes

The Amendment was accordingly carried.

              DECISION

              DECIDED that:-

(a)       the request for review had been competently made in terms of Section 43A of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997;

(b)       the review could be considered without the need for further procedure;

(c)        that the development was consistent with the relevant policies of the Local Development Plan and  Supplementary Planning Guidance and there were   no other material considerations that would justify departure from the       Development Plan; and

(d)       the Officers decision to refuse the application be overturned and the planning permission granted subject to conditions, for the reasons detailed    in Appendix IV to this Minute.