FEARS over the loss of privacy and ‘inconvenient’ car parking prompted councillors to block a 29-flats plan.
Developers wanted to demolish existing buildings at 31-41 Beckwell Road in Chalvey to erect two apartment blocks consisting of 16 one-beds and 13 two-bedroom homes.
The western block would comprise a part-three, part-four storey building with the top floor set towards the Tuns Lane frontage and set in from the floors below it around most of the roofline.
The eastern building would be three storeys high and would be located in the central and eastern part of the site.
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Vehicles will be able to park in 42 spaces provided in the basement, including five disabled bays, along with 22 Sheffield cycle stands that would accommodate up to 44 bicycles.
The developers also proposed two car lifts to access the site, which planning officers slammed as “problematic” as it could pose a health and safety risk if it breaks down or the power supply is interrupted.
Planning officers believed the apartment blocks would result in a “significant loss of privacy” to neighbours, the basement parking would not provide “convenient access and egress” for vehicle usage, and the plans have not shown it will not severely constrain or sterilise the land to the north.
Block plan of the 29 flats
Concerns over surface water drainage also prompted officers to recommend councillors on the planning committee, convened on Wednesday, September 15, to refuse the application.
Speaking against the application, Mr Ali, who lives in nearby Tuns Lane, said the two apartment blocks overlooking their home would have an impact on his daughter who is disabled with “severe learning difficulties”.
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He also criticised the planning officers for ‘redacting’ relevant details to his letter objecting to the scheme without his consent.
Planning officers apologised to Mr Ali but said they have a policy on redaction.
Cllrs ultimately agreed with officer recommendations and refused the scheme.
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