Planning – Application Comments

Consultation Date: Fri 03 Nov 2023

Comment Date: Tue 07 Nov 2023

Plymouth City Council
Strategic Planning & Infrastructure

Transport Planning Team
Ext: 01752 307813
Date: 7th November 2023
Kate Saunders
Development Management
Strategic Planning & Infrastructure
Floor 2
Ballard House

Dear Kate

Highway Authority Consultation Response to a Planning Application


APPLICATION NO: 23/01459/CDM

SITE: ALLOTMENT GARDENS, PRINCE MAURICE ROAD, PLYMOUTH

DEVELOPMENT: Condition Discharge: Conditions 17, 18 & 19 of Application 18/00432/FUL


Observations:

With reference to the discharge of the highway-related conditions, I would wish to comment as follows:

Condition 18 - Car Parking Provision
Whilst I have no objections to the level of car parking that has been proposed (52 spaces serving 44 units which equates to a standard of 1.18 spaces per unit and therefore in accordance with the standard approved under app no 18/00432/FUL), I do have some concerns in respect of the dimensions of the integral garages within Building C.

Although the width of these garages is below the required dimension of 7m for a double garage, of greater concern is the length of the garages which appear to be just over 5m at the longest point which is well below the required length of 6.5m. Considering how the garage also needs to accommodate cycle parking, these dimensions are of a concern to the LHA and is likely to lead to the garage not being used for car parking, leading to vehicles of occupiers parking elsewhere within the development. It will certainly be the case that the smaller of the two spaces within the double garage would only be likely to be able to park a smart car.
There are no concerns in respect of the remainder of the car parking spaces although the applicant should ensure that all spaces are a minimum of 2.4m in width and 4.8m in length, with parallel spaces needing to be a minimum of 6m in length.

Condition 19 ' Cycle Parking Provision
The overall number of cycle parking spaces proposed (60 in total) results in a standard of more than 1 space per unit and this is considered to be acceptable from a LHA viewpoint.

Although it is not clear from the plans provided, I am assuming that the two red blocks shown on the eastern side of Building D are secure and covered cycle parking structures? This is clear in respect of Building E but not for Building D. This needs to be clarified.

In view of the very small internal dimensions, I would question whether or not the integral garages serving Building C would provide enough space to be able to accommodate parked cars as well as 2 bicycles. I would suggest that the provision of a shed or similar structure within the rear garden area of each property may be more appropriate.

In view of the above-mentioned concerns, I am not currently able to recommend to the discharge of these conditions.

Regards



Scott Smy
Transport Development Coordinator

Officer authorised to sign on behalf of the Service
Director for Strategic Planning & Infrastructure