A care facility will be allowed to be built on the site of a former industrial yard.
The plans for Beeson’s Yard in Bury Lane, Rickmansworth received the green light after a planning inspector overruled a decision to refuse the scheme.
Three Rivers District Council’s planning committee turned down the application for the “imposing” 48-bedroom assisted living block in January due to its size and perceived impact on neighbours.
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Consultee Batchworth Community Council also described it as an “overdevelopment” of the site while Rickmansworth Town Conservative councillor Lisa Hudson spoke against the scheme on behalf of residents.
Although council officers were satisfied by applicant NL Property’s plans, the scheme was rejected by five councillors, with another five abstaining.
Read more: Plans for ‘imposing’ new assisted living block turned down
NL Property subsequently appealed the council’s decision and a report published on November 4 reveals it has been successful in its appeal.
Although admitting the proposal would have a “greater visual presence” than the existing two-storey buildings, the Government-appointed inspector felt it would not result in an “unduly prominent form of development”.
Inspector Wilson added: “The proposal would make efficient use of land whilst respecting the distinctiveness of the varied built form in the locality.
“For these reasons, the proposed development would not be harmful to the character and appearance of the surrounding area.”
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Speaking at January’s meeting, planning agent Douglas Bond had tried to persuade the committee to approve the scheme there and then, saying: "This is an opportunity to secure high quality regeneration, it’s good for the local economy and provides extra care facilities for older people.
"The development has been designed to respect the character of the area, respect the privacy and amenities of neighbouring properties, whilst delivering significant benefits to district residents."
The proposed building, of up to five storeys, would provide independent living for elderly people, along with day-to-day care and on-site communal facilities for residents.
Each unit would be a completely separate flat with either one or two bedrooms, which council officers previously noted would lead to homes being freed-up in the borough when residents move into the scheme.
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