A third attempt to build houses on the site of a car warehouse in Hove have been granted on appeal.
Brighton and Hove City Council’s planning committee went against the recommendations of officers and refused the plans to build four terraces houses and an office on the DH Autos plot in Marmion Road last August.
Councillors were concerned that the terrace would be too high and bulky compared to the surrounding houses.
But this month, planning inspector Andrew Steen overturned their decision, giving the development the green light.
Mr Steen said that the way the building mixed two and three storey heights meant it stepped up or away from its surroundings and reflect their scale and height.
He added: “I note that the existing building is referred to as historic. However, no evidence has been provided as to the historic importance of the building and, at present, it is a utilitarian structure that does not make a particular contribution to the character and appearance of the locality.
“Whilst some employment floorspace would be lost, additional offices would be provided and this loss has been considered acceptable by the council.”
Should have changed his name to Mr Hyde Group, as that would have resulted in an instant approval. Mind you, the council would have expected a champagne weekender in Cannes in return.
I think there is a mistake in the report,if the Committee had gone against the Planning Officers recommendation to refuse then it would have been passed?
It was awkwardly worded – thanks for pointing it out, I’ve changed it 🙂