Agenda item

To determine the application.

The Committee had regard to its inspection of the site (as agreed in accordance with the Site Inspection: Policy and Procedure (minute P19/04)) during its deliberations.

Sheila Black presented the report to members.

Members received a presentation in support of the application, in accordance with the Public Participation Procedure, from Matthew Brint (Project Manager).

Matthew Brint thanked members for the opportunity to speak at today’s Planning Committee. He explained that he is acting as Project Manager and both he and his client are very pleased to be involved in this project. He explained that the proposal represents a significant step in the rejuvenation of the High Street in Wisbech. He stated that as developers, he is aware of the historic nature and the listed status of the building however the building is currently in a very poor state of repair. Both he and his client are committed to rebuilding the building in a sympathetic manner and wish to preserve the historical nature of both the original building and the High Street as well.

He explained that he has worked closely with both the Council’s Planning team and Conservation Partners and asked members to support the application.

Members had no questions for Matthew Brint.

Members asked questions, made comments and received responses as follows;

1.    Councillor Meekins explained that as a resident of Wisbech he has noticed demolition work has been underway on the site. He asked if the photographs provided as part of Sheila Black’s presentation were taken before this demolition work. Sheila Black confirmed that demolition work has been undertaken on site as part of emergency work measures required due to the instability of the building. She confirmed that the photographs had been taken on 17 September 2019. Matthew Brint confirmed that the last set of emergency demolition works had been undertaken in August 2019.

2.    Councillor Meekins stated that as a local resident, he supports the development of this building as it has required remedial work for a number of years. He said the proposed design is in keeping with the High Street and the development will provide sought after retail and residential units for Wisbech.

3.    Councillor Sutton agreed and supported the application.

4.    Councillor Lynn agreed as both retail units and residential accommodation are urgently needed in Wisbech.

5.    Councillor Benney stated that from a health and safety perspective, the building needs to be demolished. He agreed that the proposal will assist in the regeneration of the High Street in Wisbech.

Proposed by Councillor Meekins, seconded by Councillor Lynn and decided that the application be GRANTED; as per officer’s recommendation.

(Councillor Hay and Councillor Murphy declared an interest by virtue of the fact that they were members of Cabinet and had been involved in a decision in relation to this proposal. They took no part in the discussion or vote for this item)

(Councillor Meekins and Councillor Lynn declared an interest by virtue of the fact that they are members of Wisbech Town Council but take no part in planning matters)