Issue - meetings

Alterations to convert former offices to 21 apartments (Listed Building within a Conservation Area) at Wesley House, Huddersfield Road, Birstall, Batley,

Contact: Nina Sayers, Planning Services

Ward affected: Birstall and Birkenshaw

Determination of the application delegated.

The Committee considered Application 2024/92105 for alterations to convert former offices to 21 apartments (Listed Building within a Conservation Area) at Wesley House, Huddersfield Road, Birstall, Batley.

Under the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 37, the Committee received a representation from Phil Bakes (on behalf of the applicant).

RESOLVED -

That determination of the application and the issuing of the decision notice be delegated to the Head of Planning and Development in order to assess the bat survey, with regard to the roof and potential habitat value, and re-consult with Kirklees Council Ecology Team. Further to which:

(i)             If no bats, or bat roosts are found, or Kirklees Ecology conclude that suitable conditions may be imposed to mitigate anticipated impacts, approve the application subject to conditions, including those set out in the report, as set out below:

1.    Three years to commence development.

2.    Development to be carried out in accordance with the approved plans and specifications.

3.    Roof lights to be conservation type, flush with the roof slope.

4.    Pointing and mortar to be in keeping with existing.

5.    If any additional ventilation is required, prior consent needed from the Local Planning Authority.

6.    Any existing original features shall be retained and protected.

7.    Obscure glazing to side elevation opening.

8.    Waste storage shall be appropriately located.

9.    Ecological mitigation (subject to bat survey outcome),

together with an additional condition in respect of a Construction Management Plan, to include specific provisions to protect the existing gravestones within the site.

(ii)            if bats are found and are inhabiting / roosting in a manner that would preclude the development so as to form a strong reason for refusal, determine the application on that basis.

A recorded vote was taken, in accordance with Council Procedure Rule 42(5), as set out below:

For: Councillors Armer, Homewood, Pinnock, Sokhal and Thompson (5 votes)

Against: Councillor Scott (1 vote)