Planning Application Details

The mature western red cedar tree to the north of the site is prominently located and has been identified as having significant amenity value and is protected by virtue of its location in the conservation area. Having regard to the proximity of the proposed dwelling to the western red cedar tree and the proposed reduction of levels to accommodate the dwelling, the proposal encroaches into and involves significant excavation within the root protection area (RPA) of the tree. The dwelling has a poor relationship with the tree being immediately adjacent to the canopy, which is likely to lead to future pressure from future residents to prune or fell the tree. The proposed siting of the dwelling conflicts with the setting of this important tree and is contrary to policies ENV1, ENV8, DES1 and DES2 of the adopted South Oxfordshire Local Plan 2035 and BS 5837, 2012.

Insufficient information has been submitted in respect of potential level changes to accommodate the driveway within the canopy of the mature western red cedar tree to the north of the site. This tree is prominently located and has been identified as having significant amenity value and is protected by virtue of its location in the conservation area. The applicant has failed to demonstrate that the proposal could be implemented without having an adverse impact on this protected tree contrary to policies ENV1, ENV8, DES1 and DES2 of the adopted South Oxfordshire Local Plan 2035 and BS 5837, 2012.

The proposed dwelling lies upon unfilled ground and within 50m of a former coal yard. Insufficient information has been submitted to assess potential contamination and the need for any mitigation contrary to Policies DES7 and ENV11 of the adopted South Oxfordshire Local Plan 2035.