URL: https://democracy.runnymede.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1201

Decision Maker: Planning Committee

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: Proposal: Change of use of public house and guest accommodation (Sui Generis) into 6 residential units (C3) with extensions and alterations to existing building and roof and associated cycle storage, hard and soft landscaping following demolition of lean-to structure and chimney   The Committee noted the Officer’s report and presentation as well as information contained within the addendum including an additional condition regarding the northern side of the elevation in the development to comply with Policy EE1 of the Runnymede 2030 Local Plan and guidance within the NPPF.   Officers informed the Committee that the presumption in favour of sustainable development applied for the development and a material consideration was the provision of housing to meet the Council’s need, and supporting development of underutilised land in urban locations.  Officers had attributed substantial weight to using suitable brownfield sites for homes.   The Committee noted that the development had been assessed against the relevant Development Plan policies, the 2030 Runnymede Local Plan, the policies of the NPPF, guidance in the PPG and other material considerations, including third party representations.   Some Members expressed concerns with regard to the perceived loss of a well established public house, and one Member queried whether the proposals demonstrated Suitable Residential Environment.  Officers were satisfied that the proposal was sustainable and acceptable in accordance with the relevant policies as set out in the report and met the SPD objectives.   Some Members also echoed the concerns outlined in residents’ representations with regard to car parking.  However, Officers advised that although there was only a minimum of one car parking space provided, this was considered appropriate, given the sustainable location.  Furthermore, Officers advised that the Highways Authority had raised no objections, but had recommended conditions with regard to parking, cycle parking and EV charging, all of which would be taken into consideration.  The provision of parking spaces and the need for the Developer to apply for and be granted a Stopping Up Order, prior to the commencement of any work on the land was noted.   Officers addressed each of these points raised by Members and it was acknowledged that several of the proposed units would have a limited outlook.  However, it was confirmed that in the Officers’ view there were insufficient harms to justify refusing the application, given the other positives of the scheme and the modest harm.     Some Members felt the price asked was too high for the pub building.  However, it was noted that there was significant alternative pub provision within close range of the pub.  No application to register the premises as an Asset of Community Value had been made.   Members agreed that the demise of the public house was regrettable, but the need for more housing outweighed these concerns and that applying the concept of ‘tilted balance’ led to the conclusion that the application should be granted, subject to the conditions as set down in the Officer’s report and the accompanying addendum.   Resolved that –   The Head of Planning be authorised to grant planning permission subject to the conditions set out in section 11 of the report, and the additional condition set out in the Addendum to the agenda

Date of Decision: October 22, 2025