In order to make consistent and fair comments on the planning applications that come before the Parish Council, they adopted some general planning guidelines at the Parish Council Meeting on 18th May 2009:

Hampstead Norreys Parish Council
Planning Committee
Design Statement

Whilst every planning application received from West Berkshire Council for comment will be assed on its’ own merits, there needs to be a consistent set of guidelines that will be used as the basis for the Parish Councils’ decision.  The following are the list of such guidelines that will be in-force until such time that they are formally revoked or amended.

1. Major Developments:
The very nature of a major development means that the scheme needs to considered in its’ entirety, however each aspect needs to fulfil its’ obligations in regard to the individual guidelines below.  The development as a whole will not be approved on the basis that “most” of it is acceptable should one or more aspects be considered un-acceptable.

2. Residential:

a. General:
i.      The general design of the proposal, including materials used.
ii.      The effect the proposal will have on neighbouring properties.  However as neighbouring residents will be given the opportunity to comment directly to West Berkshire Council, comments by the Parish Council are only likely to be made if the proposal will have a serious detrimental effect on the village environment.
iii.      The visual consequence of the proposal, particularly from where the development can be seen by the public generally.
iv.      Whether, in the Parish Council's view, the application will cause any highway problems.
v.      Landscaping proposals where submitted.
vi.      Local knowledge on flooding and drainage issues.
vii.      Wildlife issues.
viii.      Trees and Tree Preservation Orders.

b. New Property
In accordance with the Local Plan, the Parish Council will normally object to any new dwelling unless it is within the identified settlement of Hampstead Norreys, or is a replacement for a dwelling to be demolished.  In addition to the Residential – General items above the Parish Council will consider:
i.      The size and design of the dwelling.

c. Extensions – additional to Residential – General above:
i.      The design of the extension, both in its own right and compared to the existing structure.
ii.      The size of the extension, both in actual terms, and relative to the existing dwelling.
iii.      The size of the plot on which the complete dwelling will be positioned, with particular reference to plot sizes of adjacent properties.

d.       Specifically, no property shall be built or extended such that it abuts or appears to abut an adjacent property so that the property and what was a detached (or the non-attached end of a semi-detached or end of a terrace) dwelling appears to be one dwelling.  The definition of property in this regard includes any outbuilding or garage associated with the existing buildings and planned development.     

3.       Other types of Application including Commercial. 
These will generally be considered on the effect that they will have on the Parish.

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