PLANS to build two homes in Lymm have been refused.

An application proposing the development of two new residential dwellings within the curtilage of an existing dwelling including associated works – on Birchbrook Road – has been turned down.

In the decision notice, it says permission is refused for the development because it would ‘constitute inappropriate development which is by definition harmful to the green belt’.

It adds that the proposed development would ‘not constitute limited infilling in a village and would not meet any of the exceptions to inappropriate development’ in paragraphs 154 and 155 of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), and that there are ‘no very special circumstances which would outweigh the harm to the green belt’ and therefore the development would not comply with policy GB1 of the Warrington Local Plan or the NPPF.

The planning, design and access statement said the proposed development seeks full planning permission for the erection of two dwelling houses within the existing residential curtilage of number 8 Birchbrook Road.

“The proposed dwellings have been designed as dormer bungalows, in order to maintain a degree of subservience to the main building, to be accessed from the existing access to the site which is to be very slightly widened,” it added.

“A new access road will extend from the original driveway and provide vehicular access to the dwellings, designed to incorporate the space necessary for the safe manoeuvring of refuse and fire vehicles.

“Located within the green belt, the site and development is suitable as a ‘limited infill in a village’ exception according to the tests set out in case law as well as national and local policy.

“The site is clearly surrounded by existing residential development and does not propose to extend beyond the existing extent of residential development or beyond the clear settlement edge. It also does not conflict with any of the five purposes of green belt.

“In terms of sustainability and access, the site is suitably located for the delivery of two new family homes. It is in walking distance of shops, services and recreational facilities. A regular bus and train service is also only a short walk away.”