Agenda item

Installation of new parking meter.

Public Participation

Luke Hughes spoke in objection to the application

Richard Arundall spoke in objection to the application

Matt Bulford spoke in Support of the application

Cllr Jo Ings of Tisbury PC spoke in objection to the application.

The Senior Planning Officer introduced the application for the installation of a new parking meter at Old Wardour Castle, which was recommended for APPROVAL with conditions.

The Committee then had the opportunity to ask technical questions of the Officer. There were none.

Members of the public then had the opportunity to present their views as detailed above.

The Unitary Division Member Cllr Deane noted that he had called in the application because of the lack of consultation by English Heritage. Adding that the residents, the land owner and the Parish Council were all against having the pay meter. To introduce a charge to park may put off tourists and tourist were needed in this area. If English Heritage were to enforce parking charges at this site, it would encourage cars to park in other places, thus causing a negative impact on the surroundings.

The Committee then discussed the application where it was queried as to why the application had come to Committee, if it was at the privilege of the land owner to introduce parking charges, then why could he also not be able to refuse having them introduced.

Cllr Jose Green endorsed the views of those in objection to the application and moved REFUSAL against Officer’s recommendation, on the grounds that the parking meter was of an alien appearance in the setting and detrimental to the landscape.

Cllr Green moved for REFUSAL, this was seconded by Cllr Hewitt.

The Committee then discussed the application. It was noted that there was little logic as to why the meter was proposed, as visitors parking and viewing the castle would receive a full refund on the parking charge.

Some felt that in terms of Planning, there was little reason for this application to be refused, whereas other Members felt that as the application was at the site of a significant ancient monument, the introduction of the pay meter was not inconspicuous and would be detrimental to the landscape. It was also noted that there had been clear indication from local community and the land owner that they were not in support of the introduction of the pay meter.

The Committee then voted on the motion of REFUSAL against Officer’s recommendation.

Resolved

That application 16/10220/FUL, Parking Meter at Old Wardour Castle be REFUSED for the following reasons: