Plans to build housing on land behind a Lichfield pub have been refused.
Developers had hoped to build eight properties on land behind The Greyhound Inn on Upper St John Street.
But a decision notice from planning officers at Lichfield District Council said the “cramped” nature of the development meant it went against the local authority’s own policies.
The decision also questioned the impact of housing on the site in relation to the pub site.
“The development proposal is likely to have a detrimental impact upon the future operations and viability of the adjacent pub and is therefore in conflict with the Local Plan Strategy as well as relevant guidance contained within the National Planning Policy Framework.
“The development will provide an inadequate level of amenity for future occupiers, in respect of the size of rear amenity space falling short of the requirements.”
Planning decision notice
The developers behind the scheme had suggested the location was suitable for housing.
“The site has received three planning permissions on the site previously for eight dwellings.
“This application amends the site boundary from previous applications with the inclusion of part of the garden to 127 Upper St John Street and demolition of single storey buildings of the Greyhound public house being replaced with new town houses reflecting the design of the street.
“The scale of the new proposal is similar to that already approved by earlier applications.
“The site lies within the urban area of Lichfield targeted for additional residential development.”
Planning statement
Full details and the decision notice can be seen on Lichfield District Council’s planning website.
Not surprising planning has been refused it seemed unlikely that 8 houses and parking for maybe 16 cars would ever fit in that small space.Also there is very limited parking on Upper St.John St.So maybe common sense has prevailed.
It is noticeable that the three houses built on the billboard site in St. John’s street have garages too small to take cars. In consequence the cars occupy pavement space. This is a planning issue. Proper consideration to all consequences should be given before being agreed. This will now be an issue for all time. It is both an eyesore and an inconvenience.
They still building on site so maybe they not got email from planning
Be nice to see an adventurous pub company or private freeholder revamp the pub to now make good use of the wider outside area made available by the excavations. And if the Two Chefs Indian kitchen can return, better even still.
Surely the space is too small for 8 houses. There won’t be enough room for off-street parking which will cause more chaos on St John Street. What is happening to the actual pub building?
So exactly what is happening on this site? The building is going ahead at pace. There must be some explanation as to what Lichfield Planning have decided.
The developer is at pains to keep the site well screened. Has planning applications become a closed book? Was the final decision arrived at ‘in camera’?
I have posted on this report as it was the original report from Lichfield Live.