A HEARING to decide whether developers can build on Cirencester’s beloved Humpty Dumps will look at 'whether the harm outweighs the benefits'.
The hearing was made after London-based Baylight Properties appealed the rejection of their application to build up to 69 homes on the green space in Stratton.
The hearing began today (Tuesday, July 26) and is expected to be closed by Thursday, July 28.
The application was rejected last November by Cotswold District Council (CDC) due to its “visual sensitivity” and the “limited information submitted”.
The Humpty Dumps, a hilly area between Berry Hill Crescent and Bowling Green Avenue, is given protection rights as a designated Special Landscape Area (SLA).
Leading the inquiry, planning inspectorate Jonathan Cook said that he would look at the effect the proposed development would have on the character and landscape of the area and whether its “adverse effects outweigh the benefits” to the community.
Representing the appellants, Mr Crean said that the planning rejection was made “only on the character and appearance of the area”, but that the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) advises authorities to see whether the benefits of a development outweigh the harm.
He added that the site, which is known to be contaminated, could benefit from development, and that there was no reason for refusing development to an area which has “no national designation” as an AONB and “which is seen against a backdrop of housing”.
(The Humpty Dumps)
George Mackenzie, representing CDC, however said: “The site is most notable for its landform and openness. The development would have an unacceptable effect on the landscape of the area.
“All landscape harm to a Special Landscape Area will be significant.”
On the appellant’s promise to supply more affordable homes for the district, he said: “The council has granted enough planning permissions for the need to be met in the next seven years.”
(Residents and councillors opposed to the possible housing development on the Humpty Dumps in Cirencester near Bowling Green Road in September 2015)
Landscape architect Stuart Ryder, commissioned by CDC to review the area’s landscape and visual impact, put forward evidence today.
He said: “The site itself ought to be considered a valued landscape. It does seem to be used, appreciated and valued by the local people.
“I could not agree with the magnitude of change being neutral. Certainly, the Humpty Dumps would be largely built over by the proposal.
“There is a loss of existing topography and distinctive landscape characteric.”
On the visual impact of the proposed development, he said: “I would view that to be an encroachment to the countryside. It will increase that sense of coalescence between Stratton and Cirencester.”
He added that the development would significantly affect the land’s characteristic, the views from its footpaths and the view of the river valley which he described as “very attractive”, “very pleasant and very accessible”.
More to follow.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel