Conditions / Refusal Reasons
The proposed lodge would be sited on undeveloped land within an area characterised by large dwellings set within spacious plots. For the purposes of the South Oxfordshire Local Plan 2011, the site is within the countryside where there is a very strong presumption against new residential development. Due to the physical separation of the proposed development from the main dwelling known as Haileywood and the level of accommodation proposed within the building, the proposal would be tantamount to a new residential unit of accommodation in the countryside, which would be contrary to Policies G1, G3, G4, H6 and H13 of the South Oxfordshire Local Plan 2011 as well as guidance contained within Planning Policy Statement 1: Delivering Sustainable Development, Planning Policy Statement 3: Housing, and Planning Policy Statement 7: Sustainable Development in Rural Areas.
The proposed development would be close to existing protected trees to the north and the proposed vehicular access serving the development would pass through existing trees to the east. These trees make an important contribution to the environmental quality and landscape character of the area. Insufficient information has been submitted by the applicant to demonstrate that the development, through its construction and use, would not result in damage to and a threat to the long term retention of the adjacent trees. As a result the proposal fails to accord with Policies G2, G6, and C9 of the South Oxfordshire Local Plan 2011, and guidance contained in the South Oxfordshire Design Guide 2008.
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