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On the principle of the proposal and employment land supply, the Inspector accepted that the site would make a significant contribution towards the accepted shortfall. The newly adopted Local Plan required a ‘minimum of 98,196 sqm of net new employment floorspace.’ The proposal was well situated near the M4 and with access to good transport links, able to demonstrate access to the grid for power, and seeking to make up almost 15% of the Council’s overall shortfall. (DL 8-26)
The Council adopted its new Local Plan 2023-2041, a week before the commencement of the inquiry. There were three main issues to be considered at the inquiry.
As to the impact of the proposal on the setting of the Theale High Street and Blossom Lane Conservation Area, the Inspector found the harm to be less than substantial to a medium level. (DL 27-52)
And on the impact on the character and appearance, the Inspector agreed that the effects of the proposal would be more localised rather than on the wider countryside. Overall, the harm was found to lead to a limited harm, lessening to very limited after 15 years when the new planting matures. (DL 53-81)
The Inspector found that the benefits of the proposal would be considerable, limited or very limited conflict with the relevant policies, and that the proposal would be in accordance with DP policies when taken as a whole.
Costs applications made by both parties were not accepted by the Inspector.
A copy of the appeal decision may be accessed here.
John Litton KC and Hashi Mohamed acted for the successful Appellant.
See here for appeal decision
