Plans to develop equestrian buildings face objections

The proposal seeks permission in principle for the demolition of the existing equestrian buildings and erection of a minimum of two dwellings and a maximum of four dwellings and associated landscaping, on the land at Little Bowlings Farm, Goddards Lane, Sherfield-on-Loddon.

A planning statement prepared by Pro Vision on behalf of the executors of the Estate of Kathleen Gaiger, explains that the site is located on the south side of Goddards Lane in Sherfield on Loddon and has an area of 0.32 hectares.

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One of the buildings which would be demolished should the application be successful (Image: Indigo Landscape Architects)

The application has been met with criticism from neighbours, who cite road safety as a concern, explaining that the roads in the lane nearby would need resurfacing before work could commence.

One objection, from Ian Scott, reads: "The road safety for the residents here from Goddards Lane is terrible. The junction is not clearly marked or signposted.

"Nor is it capable of supporting the building/construction traffic. As the roads leading up to it are in severe need of resurfacing.

"There is no access for two-way traffic or blocked roads. Residents including ourselves have lost beloved pets and faced massive vet bills because of the blind bend leading into the lane off Goddards lane.

"This is a dangerous and poorly lit bend as stated and with very young children crossing here to get to the school bus stop.

"This ridiculous development plan would make it even more dangerous."

The application confirms that there is a Public Right of Way approximately 100 metres west of the site, and 200 metres south of the site.

The site is not covered by any landscape designations, it is not a National Landscape (formally known as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) or a National Park, and there are no local landscape designations.

Another objection, from John Murray, rang the same tune.

It reads: "My principle objection relates to Goddards Lane.

"The surface condition of the lane is poor. A year-plus construction traffic will make it even worse.

"A condition of granting this planning application should be that the lane from Goddards Close to the site entrance should be resurfaced on completion of the works."

The site includes three buildings used for equestrian purposes, hardstanding and paddocks.

It is, therefore, previously developed land (PDL), as defined by the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).

It is possible to apply for Permission in Principle for this development because it is not a. “Major development” - 10 or more houses or a land area of one hectare or more or more than 1,000 square metres.

The two larger buildings set back from the road are concrete-framed open-fronted barns. The smaller building on the roadside is timber framed and mostly open fronted with a smaller brick-built tack room on one end. There are trees along the front northern boundary of the site.

The proposal is for the demolition of the existing equestrian buildings and develop the brownfield site with the erection of a minimum of two dwellings and a maximum of 4 dwellings and associated landscaping.

Despite the objections, a heritage assessment prepared by the Environmental Dimension Partnership on behalf of the executors of the estate of Kathleen Gaiger concludes that there is "no loss of significance" whould the development go ahead. 

It reads: "Its character and appearance would be preserved.

This Assessment also concludes that the proposed redevelopment of the site would not give rise to any loss of significance from any of the other designated heritage assets which are located within its wider surroundings."