Conditions / Refusal Reasons
By virtue of its location, size, scale, mass and design, the proposed development is not truly outstanding or exceptional in architectural design standards and would not significantly enhance its immediate setting. It therefore forms a discordant development and undesirable intrusion within the open rural landscape of the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, adversely impacting the special landscape qualities of this part of the Chilterns and the local area. It would also result in light pollution which would be visible and intrusive at night, adversely affecting the dark skies of the AONB. As such, the development is contrary to the National Planning Policy Framework (paragraph 80 and 176), and policies DES1, DES2, ENV1 and ENV12 of the South Oxfordshire Local Plan 2035.
The site lies outside the built up limits of Watlington and Britwell Salome, is not identified for development in the Development Plan and the proposed development would not represent infill development as defined by the Development Plan. The proposal would lead to a development in an isolated rural location, which is unsustainable as it has poor links to the main body of the nearest settlement, resulting in occupiers of the dwelling being reliant on the private car in order to access essential services and facilities. As such, the proposed development would not accord with the District's spatial strategy for rural housing growth. Therefore, the development is contrary to the National Planning Policy Framework, and policies STRAT1, H1, TRANS2 and TRANS5 of the South Oxfordshire Local Plan 2035.
The development has not demonstrated how the dwelling will achieve at least a 40% reduction in carbon emissions compared with a code 2013 Building Regulations compliant base. As such, the development does not comply with the requirements of Policy DES10 of the South Oxfordshire Local Plan 2035.
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