The Inquiry Inspector’s Gomm Valley appeal decision on 11 September 2024
The Inspector has dismissed Taylor Wimpey’s appeal and refused planning permission, but solely on the grounds of highway objections and ruled that there were no substantive objections on the grounds of appearance, design, layout, plot sizes and so on. The following is an extract from his report:
‘Overall Balance and ConclusionThe identified highways objections are matters that attract very substantial weight because, having regard to the deficient analysis of the transport network and future traffic impacts associated with the proposal, the residual cumulative impact on the network would be severe, resulting in unacceptable highway safety impacts.
The scheme would address the allocation in respect of character and appearance, design, biodiversity and ancient woodland, living conditions, accessibility and other infrastructure, in compliance with elements of Policy HW6 and related Local Plan and ADSAP Policies as set out. However, due to highways impacts, I find conflict with Local Plan Policy HW6 overall and several other policies in relation to transportation and highways. Therefore, I find overall conflict with the development plan when read as a whole.Section 38(6) of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 requires that the appeal must be determined in accordance with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise.
The material considerations in this case which weigh in favour of the scheme do not indicate a decision other than in accordance with the development plan when taken as a whole.Consequently, the appeal is dismissed, and planning permission is refused.’
It is hard to see how this objection can be overcome. The question now is whether there is any way of managing the traffic on the A40 London Road sited as it is at the bottom of a narrow valley with new developments on both sides making the problem even worse.
If you want to read the entire case this is the link