Planning appeal dismissed in relation to 68 home development in Cheltenham despite lack of 5YHLS

Following a week long planning inquiry, adopting a primarily round table format for evidence, an appeal in relation to a 68 home development on land in Charlton Kings, Cheltenham has been dismissed. A key issue was heritage, as the appeal site lay between Ashley Manor (a Grade II* listed asset) and Charlton Manor (a Grade II listed asset). The Inspector found a significant degree of harm to each of these assets. The other main issues related to ecology (and in particular whether there was a net gain to biodiversity) and arboriculture. Despite there being a lack of five year housing land supply, the Inspector found that the harm significantly and demonstrably outweighed the benefits. A copy of the decision is available here. Leon Glenister represented the Rule 6 party, Friends of Charlton Kings, who adduced evidence on heritage and led opposition in relation to ecology. He was instructed by Matthew McFeeley and Sarah Knox-Brown of Richard Buxton Solicitors.