Planning Application Details

The provision of the proposed two storey dwelling on the site would be contrary to the provisions of the South Oxfordshire Local Plan which seeks to protect the District's settlements from adverse development and enhance the environment whenever opportunities arise (G1). Proposals which would adversely affect the setting of a listed building will be refused (CON7). In conservation areas the District Council will seek to ensure that the character of the area is preserved or enhanced (CON8). In conservation areas, the Council will resist the intensification of uses which conflict with the special character of the area and seek to retain existing walls, trees, open spaces and important views where they contribute to the character of the area (CON15). Within the larger villages in the Green Belt strict infill may be permitted provided that the criteria specified in Policy H4 can be met (H5). In this case the site is a prominent corner plot in the Warborough conservation area next to a Grade II listed building and wall and a Grade II* listed building. The existing building on the site, whilst not attractive, is inobtrusive and does not compete visually with the tree or the existing boundary wall. The proposal to erect a two storey building on the site would involve a much more prominent building in this rural conservation area. As such the proposal would detract from the setting of the nearby listed structures and the character and appearance of the Warborough conservation area. Furthermore, for the reasons identified the site is not considered appropriate for infill development.

The provision of the gravel driveway in the location and using the construction method proposed would involve root damage to the Ash tree on the site and would threaten its long term health. Furthermore, it is considered that the Ash tree would have an overbearing and oppressive effect on the proposed house and its garden. The Ash tree is considered to be important to the local scene and its loss would be harmful to the character of the area. As such the proposal would be contrary to Policy H11 or to Policies C16 and CON10 of the adopted South Oxfordshire Local Plan.