Conditions / Refusal Reasons
The proposed development, which seeks to retain an unauthorised commercial development, would not constitute a sustainable form of development. The site is located in a countryside location outside of any settlement, poor in terms of accessibility and safe and convenient access for all users and lacking in sustainable transport options and infrastructure to accommodate sustainable modes of transport to and from the site. Consequently it is not a suitable location for economic development to be sited, having a high reliance on the use of private motor vehicles. The development is therefore in conflict with policies STRAT1, EMP10, TRANS2 and TRANS5 of the South Oxfordshire Local Plan, the Oxfordshire County Council Local Transport and Connectivity Plan 2022-2050 and National Planning Policy Framework.
The proposed development would introduce commercial activity on to the site. This together with any requirement for replacement facilities and further built form on the site resulting from the loss of the use of an existing building which serves and provides facilities for the recreational fishery use on the site would be detrimental to the visual amenities and rural character of the area contrary to Policies STRAT1, EMP10 and ENV1 of the South Oxfordshire Local Plan and National Planning Policy Framework which seek to protect the countryside from harmful development.
In making this decision the Council has followed the requirements in paragraph 38 of the National Planning Policy Framework, but as the proposal is contrary to established planning principles in relation to sustainable development for the above reason, it has not been possible to suggest potential solutions to the scheme as submitted.
(Show Map - opens in new window)
