Council applies to develop copse site

TWO homes could be built on land owned by Sonning Common Parish Council.

The council has applied for outline planning permission to develop the 0.18-hectare site on the corner of Wood Lane and Brinds Close.

The three-bedroom homes would be built on the land, which is known as Brinds Copse. They would have a shared access and two parking spaces each.

A bus stop in Wood Lane would have to be moved to create the access.

South Oxfordshire District Council planning officers have said the site is appropriate for infill development.



There are two beech trees on the site which were rated by arborculturalist Hugo Loudon as being of “moderate” quality or value with a life expectancy of 20-plus years.

The council wants to fell one of the trees and plant four others and to landscape the site.

In its application, the council said: “The site is currently clear, with the exception of protected beech trees, forming a corner plot with a detached dwelling immediately adjacent to the east along Wood Lane and a detached garage block to the west.

“To the south of the site exists an abandoned builders’ yard, currently the subject of a planning application for residential development.

“The proposed buildings are sited to the north-east of the adjacent dwelling.

“The elevation overlooking the site does not incorporate any window openings. There will be no impact in terms of loss of daylight upon neighbouring properties.”

The council plans to sell the land if the application is approved.

Consultation on the plan ends on November 19 and the district council should make a decision by December 17.