Bennetts Farm
Client: Brentwood Borough Council (BBC)
Proposed Development:
KEW Planning acted as the planning officer on behalf of BBC in relation to a full planning application for an application for the recreational use of land for clay pigeon shooting in a woodland area. The site is part of Bennetts Farm, which comprises of a total of 56.48 ha of Green Belt land.
The planning application was submitted under the now superseded Local Plan and had initially been reviewed by another officer and had been lodged for determination for over 12 months when KEW Planning was appointed.
The development seeking permission comprised of the following:
– Demolition of 2no. existing agricultural buildings
– Construction of a new courtyard
– Erection country store (retail use)
– Erection of a clubhouse with associated hospitality uses (including restaurants/bar with changing room facilities and offices)
– Construction of a woodland management building
– Widening of vehicle access
– New parking area
– Hard/soft landscaping with the creation of bunds
Result:
KEW Planning provided dedicated resources to BBC acting as the planning officer in determining this planning application within a tight timescale. KEW Planning assessed the proposal against the new Local Plan, and negotiated with the applicant amendments to the scheme so that no harm would be done to the openness of the Green Belt, protected species, including badgers inhabiting the site.
KEW Planning also ensured the shooting stands’ location and appearance would protect local wildlife, the appearance of the area and the amenity of local residents. The proposed sporting use was considered to be acceptable with no material impact to the openness of the Green Belt.
Full service included:
– Site inspection.
– Review of planning application documents.
– Liaison and feedback from statutory consultees.
– Liaison with the applicant.
– Preparation of delegated report.
KEW Planning has subsequently been appointed via a PPA to discharge the planning conditions.