Development Management Committee - Wednesday, 26th April, 2023 7.00 pm - Agenda and minutes

All Members who have or believe that they have any interest under the Rushmoor Borough Council Councillors’ Code of Conduct, adopted in April 2021, in any matter to be considered at the meeting are required to disclose that interest at the start of the meeting (preferably) or as soon as possible thereafter and to take the necessary steps in light of their interest as to any participation in the agenda item.

There were no declarations of interest for this meeting.

To confirm the Minutes of the meeting held on 22nd March 2023 (copy attached).

The Minutes of the Meeting held on 22nd March, 2023 were approved and signed as a correct record of proceedings.

To consider the Executive Head of, Property and Growth’s Report No. PG2316 on planning applications recently submitted to the Council (copy attached).

Sections A & B of the report set out the items to be considered at future meetings and petitions received:

Section C of the report sets out planning applications for determination at this meeting:

Section D of the report sets out planning applications which have been determined under the Council’s scheme of delegation for information.

(ii)          the applications dealt with by the Executive Head of Property and Growth, where necessary in consultation with the Chairman, in accordance with the Council’s Scheme of Delegation, more particularly specified in Section “D” of the Executive Head of Property and Growth’s Report No. PG2316, be noted

 (iii)        the current position with regard to the following applications be noted pending consideration at a future meeting:

To consider the Executive Head of Property and Growth’s Report No. PG2317 (copy attached) which reports on cases of planning enforcement and possible unauthorised development.

RESOLVED: That the Executive Head of Property and Growth’s Report No. PG2317, as amended at the meeting, be noted.

Katie Herrington, Principle Planning Officer, gave a verbal update to the Committee on the position regarding the agreement of all outstanding legal agreements including the Environmental Improvement Plan pursuant to the Development Consent Order for the renewal and partial realignment of the Southampton to London ESSO fuel pipeline which crossed the Borough of Rushmoor. 

Queen Elizabeth Park (QEP) – it was noted that removal of the heras fencing had commenced, however the path would not be reopened until the quality had been fully checked by the Council. Replanting had also commenced. With regards to timescales, it was noted that the compound would remain in place for the next few weeks to enable the installation of the new playground which was due to start on 22 May, this would be followed by work to  reinstate the car park. It was expected that Esso would be off the site by the end of June. 2023.

Southwood Country Park (SCP) – it was noted that works had ceased due to poor working conditions and an issue with an Environment Agency licence relating to works at the brook. Works at Nash Close works were due to commence on 27 April and a temporary car park, for resident use, had been established in the SCP car park.

In addition, it was noted that following discussions with Hampshire County Council (HCC), a temporary crossing would be installed at SCP. And discussions were underway with ESSO regarding funding. Discussions were ongoing relating to a more permanent solution.

In response to a query regarding complaints concerning the West Heath compound, it was noted that a number of issues had been raised and the Council were awaiting a response. It was suggested that Members share any issues with Ms Herrington direct to ensure a comprehensive response to all matters of concern.

The report was noted.