Plans for a new commercial building in Norton have been approved by councillors despite objections from more than 50 local residents.
Arun District Council’s planning committee voted to approve the proposal for the land at West Barn, Old Dairy Lane.
The development will see the demolition of an existing tennis court and the construction of a commercial building for office, research or light industrial use.
Plans include 36 parking spaces, disabled parking, electric vehicle charging points and two spaces for larger goods vehicles.
A previous application for a similar proposal was refused due to concerns over drainage, flood risk, the height of the building causing it to overlook a neighbouring property and the impact of large goods vehicles on nearby residents.
The latest plans sought to address these issues, adding obscure glazing on the window overlooking the neighbouring home and the large goods vehicle spaces have been moved to the west side to prevent possible impacts.
Aldingbourne Parish Council objected to the plans, raising concerns over the site’s location, limited access for emergency services, overdevelopment and impacts on the Conservation Area.
There were also 54 letters of objection from residents raising issues including, traffic, impacts on nearby properties, and that it was an ‘inappropriate development’ in the countryside.
Despite this, planning officers recommended approval stating they are now satisfied that previous grounds for refusal have been revised and addressed.
The impact on the Conservation Area was considered with around 0.3 meters at the rear of the building sitting in the boundary but the applicant has since moved the building forward one metre. Additionally, cladding and planting have been proposed to maintain the character of the area.
The officer’s report stated that the development makes an ‘effective use of land’ and contributes an ‘improvement to the appearance’ of the existing site.
Mr Spence, who lives nearby, argued that public transport links were not practical and said: “The only feasible method of reaching the site is by private motor vehicle.”
“To suggest that this site is sustainable is, quite frankly, ridiculous.”
Andrew Cousins, the applicant, said: “The demand for offices is there. We know that it will provide more employment.”
“People will relocate to the area and help to sustain the local area, and its economy.”
The council ultimately approved the application with seven votes in favour and two against.
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