The Planning Inspectorate has dismissed a proposal to build two new homes at Wick Green in Grove. The application, submitted by James Gordon, was initially refused by the Vale of White Horse District Council last year.
This proposal followed a previously approved plan for a single detached property on the site, as well as a prior refusal for two semi-detached houses. The new scheme included the provision of five parking spaces.
Planning officers from the council expressed concerns, stating that the development would harm the visual amenity of the area. While acknowledging the potential benefits of providing housing and some economic and social advantages, they concluded that two dwellings would not outweigh the visual impact. As a result, they deemed the application contrary to the local development plan and the national planning policy framework (NPPF).
The applicant appealed, arguing that the proposed subdivision of the plot was consistent with the existing street layout. The appeal’s statement asserted that the parking arrangements would align with those of neighboring properties and would not detract from the character of the area.
However, the planning inspector sided with the district council’s evaluation. The decision report noted that the proposal did not demonstrate an ability to provide low-cost accommodation nor meet a particular need for such housing in the area. Consequently, this aspect was given little weight.
Furthermore, the report stated that the lack of harm concerning highway safety and the absence of objections from the parish council or statutory consultees were neutral factors that did not favor the proposal. It emphasized that planning decisions should align with the development plan unless other material considerations suggest otherwise.
Ultimately, the inspector concluded that the proposal would diminish the character and appearance of the surroundings, and the minor benefits cited were insufficient to counterbalance the identified harm. Thus, the appeal was dismissed.
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