Planning Application Details

That the proposal would result in insensitive and intrusive alterations to a building which was recognised in an appeal decision dated 9 November 1989 (T/APP/Q3115/A/89/118885/P3), to be "a simple structure, similar in general to many agricultural structures that one sees, and accepts, in the countryside". The proposed changes would give the building a more substantial appearance and would adversely affect the character and amenity of the area which lies within the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Therefore the development would be contrary to the provisions of the Council's adopted South Oxfordshire Local Plan, particularly policy C2 and C11. Furthermore, the Inspector also concluded that "...I think it prudent to have some regard to the effect on the landscape if the proposed use were to cease, for whatever reason. The field could, if necessary, be returned to agricultural use, so that the proposed use does not entail irreversable development. The driving range is, I am told, capable of being used for the storage of hay, if that is ever necessary. Certainly, its removal would not be difficult if it became redundant". The Local Planning Authority agrees with the Inspector that if the building is no longer required as a golf driving range it should be removed from the land.