Scarborough Civic Society
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Scarborough & District Civic Society
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August 2010

We finally received a response from our Planning Officers about the solar panels on the Crown Spa Hotel. It has been obvious throughout that the desire for a 4 star hotel on the Esplanade was allowed to override other considerations such as the duty to protect a Grade II* listed building. Below a quotation from the letter on their decision to approve changes without reference to the members of the committee or English Heritage,

"Although this revised orientation varied from that approved, in essence changing its overall shape, it was judged, taking into account views of the roof from around the town that the alteration could be considered as an acceptable amendment to the approved scheme.

Once revealed, following completion of the roof the visual impact was not as first thought. In particular, the panels are more obvious when viewed from a stretch of the Esplanade, on approach from the south. They are more visible than initially envisaged, and in addition to this, the framework they are fixed to means that they appear fairly lightweight in construction, rather than appearing integral to the building."

Please read the complete letter by clicking here and form your own opinion

August 2010 PLANNING REPORT

Update on previous newsletter reports

The creation of two apartments within the roofspace of St. Thomas Hospital, Foreshore Road 09/01923/FL and 09/01924/LB.  We objected to the changes in the external appearance of this listed building on the seafront.  Permission granted by Planning & Development Committee 1st July 2010.

Conversion of basement into pharmacy at Lawrence House Medical Centre 09/02465/FL.  We objected.  Planning permission granted by delegated decision 27th July 2010.

Proposed erection of sports pavilion for Scalby Cricket and Football Club, Carr Lane, Scalby 10/00703/FL.  We have objected because we do not feel that Carr Lane is a suitable access route to the facility.  The proposed widening and alterations to Carr Lane, which is a bridleway and public footpath would disturb walkers and horse-riders.  Decision pending.

New applications

Erection of additional brick built garage at rear of 8 Royal Crescent 10/00870/FL. We objected to the proposal to build a second garage in the small rear garden of this block of flats in the Conservation Area.  Application refused by delegated decision 30th June 2010.

Change of use of shelter to showroom/office accommodation with associated external alterations Plantation Hill 10/01100/FL.  We objected to the loss of a public amenity and to the proposed copious use of advertisements in the scheme, as the shelter is in a prominent site in the Conservation Area.  Planning permission was refused by Planning & Development Committee 19th August 2010.

Totaldemolition of bait sheds 1 and 2 and the reinstatement of the pier surface with tarmac to form a pay and display car park, West Pier 10/01190/RG4.  We supported the application as the forerunner of a future scheme to improve the pier’s amenities. Planning permission granted by Planning & Development Committee 19th August 2010.

Proposed new dwelling in rear garden area 8 Raincliffe Avenue 10/01128/FL.  We objected to this garden-grabbing scheme which proposes a two-bedroomed bungalow squeezed into a small plot with little outdoor amenity space, too close to neighbours’ boundaries and possibly overlooking one of the neighbours.  Decision pending.

Residential development on land at West Garth, Cayton 10/00903/OL.  This is an outline planning application to build around 170 homes.  We have objected because it is on a greenfield site outside the limits of permitted development. We feel that this proposed development would put a great strain on the existing infrastructure and amenities of Cayton and alter the character of the village.  The site is also prone to flooding.  Decision pending.     

June 2010
 
The abolition by the new coalition government of Regional Strategies will surely have an impact on the emerging Local Development Framework.  Scarborough Borough Council is no longer under pressure to conform to the targets set out in the Regional Strategy.  The council, as Local Planning Authority, can now tailor its planning approvals to the local situation and local economic outlook.