Agenda item

Officers Report

The PO-MA introduced the Officers report and recommendation for approval. He outlined the sites context, location plan, areal views, as well as photographs of the various elevations.

The SPO-MA provided photographic evidence of the proposed roof tiles on the Northern roof, comprised of traditional Spanish style slate tile, and the proposed photovoltaic Solar Slates on the Southern Elevation, which would not be subject to the same glint and glare issues associated with traditional PV panels. He advised that that the applicant had provided information on their energy consumption for the last full year which was 2018 (later years were impacted by COVID-19) amounting to 3683kWh. The proposed PV slate roof was expected to generate 6754 kWh, with the new electric heating and replacement lighting expected to consume 756 kWh. The proposal was therefore expected to approximately generate a net gain of 2315 kWh to the National Grid per year.

The SPO-MA affirmed the main issues for consideration; the principle of development; the effect of the proposed development on the significance of designated heritage assets; effect on residential amenity, highway safety and biodiversity; and Coastal Erosion.

Public Speakers

Mr White - Supporting

Member’s Question’s and Debate

1. The Local Member – Cllr W Fredericks – spoke in support of the application which she considered to be a trailblazer for other churches, noting that the Bishop of Norwich’s vision for all churches in the County to be greener. She commended the application for being common sense, and if approved would see the removal of the old oil boiler and leaking tank.

2. Cllr N Lloyd expressed his support for the application, and reflected that this type of scheme was taking place across the Country including historic locations and buildings within Cambridge University. He argued that the panels would not be distinguishable from a typical slate tile to many observers. Whilst understanding why the Conservation Officer had objected to the proposal based on current NNDC adopted core strategy policies, Cllr N Lloyd stated that the polices were outdated and in need of addressing. He proposed acceptance of the Officers recommendation.

3. Cllr A Brown seconded the Officers recommendation, and agreed with Cllr N Lloyd that having declared a Climate Emergency it was important the Council support applications which looked after the environment.

4. Cllr P Heinrich reflected that whilst the proposal would amount to a minor change in appearance, it would make a significant and positive difference to the environment.

5. Cllr L Withington considered the application in relation to the Coastal Transition and Acceptation Programme, and stated that it was important to consider the retrofitting of existing infrastructure to ensure they were fit for the future.

6. Cllr G Mancini-Boyle stated this was a fantastic scheme which he hoped would be replicated across the district.

7. The Chairman noted that replacement/repairs to the roof and heating system would ensure that the Church be more amenable for community use, noting that that active lunch club could be accommodated in the church.

IT WAS UNANIMOUSLY RESOLVED by 12 votes for.

That Planning Application pf/22/1649 be APPROVED subject to the imposition of conditions detailed in the Officers report. Final wording of conditions to be delegated to the Assistant Director – Planning.