A PROPOSAL to build up to nine self-build houses at the edge of a Dorset town has been refused.
Stroud-based company Livedin Custom Build submitted an application for permission in principle for a phased development of up to nine self-build houses on land west of Pound Lane in Gillingham.
The plans faced opposition from Gillingham Town Council and some residents, who raised concerns the houses would be built on “irreplaceable” parkland.
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Reasons for refusal
Dorset Council refused the plans on grounds the site lies outside the development area of the town and said the location is “unsuitable for housing for both general and self-build needs.”
In their objections to the plans, Gillingham Town Council suggested the proposed land for development forms part of the parkland of Grade II listed Wyke Hall – something Livedin disputed, stating it was “erroneously described” as this in the conservation area appraisal in 2013.
The town council was supported in their objection however, as a planning officer said: “The proposed development would significantly intrude into the rural parkland setting of Wyke Hall and erode this primary contributory element to both the setting of the Grade II listed Wyke Hall and the Wyke Conservation Area.”
The planning officer also came to the conclusion the plans would “be harmful to the local character and distinctiveness” of the rural site.
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