After an Independent Examination by Ann Skippers of Ann Skippers Planning, Slaugham's Neighbourhood Plan regrettable deems it 'not compatible with the requirements of European Union obligations insofar as a Strategic Environmental Assessment is required', that submitted was not satisfactory and therefore advises is should not proceed to a  referendum. 


Additionally, 3 identified housing sites and target not to be based on sufficiently robust evidence given the great weight of the NPPF in respect of AONBs and the site not necessarily being suitable or deliverable 


Some lessons to be learnt. 

Enlightened Ashford  Borough Council Planning Committee Members overturned a recommendation for refusal for the conversion of a splendid C18th barn to a dwelling on residential amenity grounds. Now a Grade II listed barn can be repaired and brought back into use after years of opposition from Ashford Borough Council's planners and conservation officers.  

Every possible hurdle was placed in the way of the applicants. And every hurdle was thoroughly addressed with the case being referred to as a well considered and informed submission. But the sticking point was the distance between the front of the old farmhouse and the barn and vice versa. A one-size-fits-all approach to applying 'guide' distances was taken a stretch too far. 

Cllr Neil Bell, ward member for Biddenden spoke eloquently in favour of the proposal. The applicant also addressed members and the vote went in favour of granting subject to a legal agreement being entered into. 

Eimear's role was to work with the Agent and produce supporting statements on planning, heritage significance and design & access. 

Obviously the owners are delighted and commented   ' …. we couldn't have done it without you & Chris. But it was a nail biter.'