19 October 2020

Lightwood appeal success on the Crown Estate

The Planning Inspectorate has allowed the appeal by Lightwood against the decision of Elmbridge Borough Council Planning Committee to refuse an application for the erection of two detached dwellings on the exclusive Crown Estate in Cobham.

Despite gaining the support of the planning officer and going to committee with a recommendation to approve, it was unanimously refused on the basis that it would failed to make the most effective use of land to meet the housing needs of the area (essentially that the site should be utilised for a greater number of smaller units).

The respectful and considered proposal was recognised by the Inspector as being “consistent with the established character and appearance of the area surrounding it” and “an appropriate form of development for the appeal site”.