Planning Application Details

The proposed removal of the conditions would be contrary to the principle behind Policy H12 of the SOLP 2011, which relates specifically to replacing existing dwellings, not adding another one. The retention of the existing dwelling would lead to an overall increase in the amount of built form and the number of independent dwellings on the Pond Farm site compared with the situation before planning permission P15/S3425/FUL was granted. The recently constructed replacement dwelling was granted planning permission on the basis that its greater visual impact would be offset by the enhancement provided by removing the existing dwelling and hardstanding and the provision of indigenous planting with a long term maintenance schedule. This enhancement would be prevented if the current application were to be approved. As such, the proposal would not meet the AONB vision to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the Chilterns, a consideration upon which great weight must be placed, and would be environmentally unsustainable. Due to its location and remoteness from services, the retention of the existing dwelling would also constitute low levels of social sustainability. For the reasons set out the proposal would be contrary to Paragraph 115 of the NPPF, the NPPG and Policies CSS1, CSR1, CSEN1 and CSQ3 of the South Oxfordshire Core Strategy, and Policies G2, G4, C4, D1 and H12 of the South Oxfordshire Local Plan 2011.