Conditions / Refusal Reasons
The proposed development due to is scale, height, design and siting would fundamentally and harmfully change the existing character of the site and the contribution it makes to the rural character of the area at the edge of the village, inside of the Chilterns AONB. The proposal would fail to conserve or enhance the landscape setting of Ipsden and the Chilterns AONB, contrary to paragraphs 174 to 178 of the NPPF, Policies STRAT1, ENV1, DES1 and DES2 of the South Oxfordshire Local Plan 2035, and guidance contained within the council's Joint Design Guide 2022.
The existing treescape and native hedging on and surrounding the site makes a positive contribution to the rural character of the settlement's edge and the surrounding countryside, inside of the Chilterns AONB. From the information submitted it has not been possible to assess whether the proposed scheme can be implemented alongside the retention of the existing trees and other landscape features which contribute positively to the existing character of the site, contrary to paragraphs 174 to 178, 206 and 207 of the NPPF, Policies STRAT1, ENV1, DES1 and DES2 of the South Oxfordshire Local Plan 2035, and guidance contained within the council's Joint Design Guide 2022.
Due to the proximity of the development to the shared boundary to the north, the external stair, raised platform and glazed door opening of the proposal would allow opportunities for overlooking into the private rear gardens and the scale and height of the development would form an overbearing element affecting the outlook of the dwellings fronting Fir Close. The proposed development would result in harm to the amenity of the neighbouring properties in terms of outlook and privacy, contrary to Policies STRAT1, H20 and DES6 of the South Oxfordshire Local Plan 2035, and guidance contained within the council's Joint Design Guide 2022.
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