Agenda item

Committee considered a report in relation to the above application presented by the Development Management and Land Charges Manager, who gave details of the application and highlighted the location and features of the site and key issues.  It had been resolved by the Committee on 14^th May 2025 that subject to the prior entry into a Section 106 agreement to secure a requested travel plan contribution that the application be approved subject to conditions.

Progress had been made on preparing a legal agreement to secure the payment of the travel plan contribution prior to occupation of any part of the development.

The Council had a long leasehold interest on site and the agreement only needed to secure one financial contribution payable to Derbyshire County Council (DCC).  It had been agreed that it would be more appropriate for a Section 106 unilateral undertaking to be made in favour of both the Council and DCC.

The applicant had also sought a longer period to submit the reserved matters to allow for phasing that would be more responsive to market demand as the development progressed.

More detail was provided in the report.

From the Supplementary Agneda provided, the Committee was informed the applicant had pointed out an inconsistency with the wording of the recommended Condition 29, which did not link to the phasing of the development as per the other conditions.  It had been requested that the condition be worded as follows:

'An Employment Scheme, to enhance and maximise employment and training opportunities during the construction phase of the project, for each approved phase of development shall be submitted to, and be approved in writing by, the Local Planning Authority prior to the commencement of development in that phase.  Any such approved Scheme shall then be implemented in full unless in accordance with any such subsequent variations as shall have been formally submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority.'

Councillor Donna Hales spoke on the application.

To a question on any specific heritage assets raised, Councillor Donna Hales informed of the railway workshop and Portland House (the latter was not a listed building, though it was argued it remained a significant historical asset) – both would be demolished along with the expected rail buildings and bathhouse.

A Member noted Shirebrook encountered the same situation of local heritage assets – while personal feelings should be acknowledged it was natural for the District to move forwards.

The Development Management and Land Charges Manager addressed concerns on the historical assets – it was noted the former Headquarters building would be retained but the loss of all other buildings to develop the site was acceptable, having regard to the public benefits to be derived.

5 in favour

0 against

Moved by Councillor Tom Munro and seconded by Councillor Phil Smith

RESOLVED that application no. 23/00180/OUT be APPROVED following completion of a legal agreement to secure the travel plan contribution and with the conditions set out in the officer report, with the exception of Condition 29 which shall be amended as set out above and with delegated authority being given to the Interim Director of Planning, Devolution & Corporate Policy or the Development Management and Land Charges Manager to make any further minor amendments to condition wording relating to phasing where necessary in consultation with the Planning Committee Chair and Vice Chair.

Having declared an interest in the following item, Councillor Tom Munro left the meeting at 11:22 hours.