Agenda item
Shrine of Our Lady of Willesden, Nicoll Road, NW10 9AX (Ref. 09/2092)
Minutes:
09/2092
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Details pursuant to condition 7 (boundary treatment) of full planning permission reference 03/3432, dated 25 August 2005, for demolition of the existing hall and erection of a single-storey rear extension to provide a new hall with kitchen and toilet facilities.
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OFFICER RECOMMENDATION: Grant planning permission subject to an informative.
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In his introduction, the Planning Manager Andy Bates referred to correspondence received from Councillor Long regarding the issue of the security of New Crescent Yard and the height of the wall as built along the boundary. He went on to state that although the height of the wall as built was significantly lower than what was there previously, it achieved a satisfactory appearance in the context of listed buildings. He added that in planning and listed building terms the wall as built discharged condition 7 of the original application (reference 03/3432). Andy Bates continued that although a 2.4 metre high structure had been approved to the rear of the New Crescent Yard, it would not be appropriate to the front. He added that although the landscaped area to the frnt and side of the Church it did not extend the full length of the wall, the provision of an area of defensible planting would provide a buffer area between the pedestrian access in the church grounds and the wall in question and with that in view, he recommended an informative as set out in the tabled supplementary.
James Williamson an objector stated that the boundary wall did not conform to the drawings submitted. He added that due to issues of security including theft and robberies, there was a need for the height of the wall to be increased and possibly the installation of a CCTV camera. In response to an enquiry from the Chair, Mr Williamson expressed his preference for a 2.4m high wall.
Father Stephen Willis started by saying that the rebuilding of the wall was as a result of a request by the residents of New Crescent Yard to replace what was considered to be a dangerous and an inferior structure. He stated that whilst the wall would be built to its original height, the Diocese Church did not have the financial means to erect a 2.4m high fence wall or metal railing. In addition a fence wall would not be in keeping with the listed building status of the Church.
Mr Peter Fishenden a supporter and a contractor for the Church stated that the new wall as built maintained the same height as before and in his view, had improved visibility and egress from New Crescent Yard. He added that the concerns raised by the objector were not supported by the residents of New Crescent Yard.
In response to the issues raised including a suggestion by Councillor Cummins for a 2m high metal railing, Andy Bates stated that the wall, as built, satisfied the relevant condition, thus ensuring that it did not prejudice the appearance of the locality in the context of the Listed Building. It was felt that as it would be difficult to deal with the concerns raised by New Crescent Yard residents through the remit of this particular application, the residents should meet with the Church leaders and the local ward members to explore further means of reaching a mutually satisfactory conclusion.
DECISION: Planning permission granted subject to an informative.
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Supporting documents: