In accordance with the Council’s public speaking scheme, the following made representations which were duly considered:
· Zoe Stroud – In objection
· Charles Collins – In support
· Cllr James Bloomfield – Ewhurst Parish Councillor
· Cllr Michael Higgins – Ward Councillor
Following the debate, an alternative recommendation was proposed by Cllr Carole Cockburn and seconded by Cllr Kevin Deanus to REFUSE planning permission.
The Committee voted on the motion and there were 13 votes in favour, 1 vote against and 0 abstentions.
The Committee therefore resolved to REFUSE planning permission by reason of the proposed development fails to safeguard the intrinsic character and beauty of the Countryside, which requires development to be of a high quality and to respond to the distinctive local character of the area and resist development which harm the visual character and distinctiveness of a locality, in relation t its surroundings, contrary to policies RE1, TD1 of the Local Plan (Part 1) 2018, Policies DM1 and DM4 of the Local Plan (Part 1) 2013, Policy EEG1 of the Ewhurst and Ellens Green Neighbourhood Plan, and the principles of the NPPF 2023. Within these areas the Countryside is to be recognised and safeguarded in the interests of protecting its intrinsic character and beauty. The proposed development does not comply with the requirements of these policies and there were no material considerations which would indicate otherwise.