Agenda item

The Strategic Lead Planning Policy and Projects Officer introduced a report on the proposed adoption of the Slough Trading Estate Simplified Planning Zone (SPZ).

The Officer advised that the purpose of the report was to allow the Committee to note  the response to the public consultation of the Deposit Draft Simplified Planning Zone (SPZ) scheme for Slough Trading Estate and  propose some minor amendments. The Committee was also requested to  recommend that Cabinet adopt the new SPZ scheme at its  meeting on 14^th July. It was highlighted that the scheme would come into effect on the 12^th November 2014 for a 10 year period.

Members were reminded that the purpose of the SPZ was to allow SEGRO, the owners of the Estate a number of commercial advantages as they sought to deliver bespoke premises which served the needs of modern businesses and provided facilities that were necessary to continue to attract inward investment. These advantages included: 

·  Flexibility to respond quickly and effectively to changes in market demands and tenant requirements

·  Certainty for owners and occupiers about what development was acceptable to the Council under the scheme, and  therefore not require detailed planning approval

·  Speed of development being brought forward – as individual applications were  not required and consistent parameters were established by the SPZ, they were not subject to the normal planning permission timeframes

·  Marketability of the Estate in a way which would enhance its perception  for investment, leading  directly to companies choosing to locate on the Estate.

It was considered that the SPZ would help implement the objectives of the Core Strategy and the Site Allocation Document (which included SEGRO’s Master Plan for the Trading Estate) which together formed the planning framework for the Trading Estate.

Details of the height restrictions in place on the Estate, particularly for those sites close to residential areas were highlighted. In addition, the results of public and statutory consultations were outlined, and  it was confirmed that no significant objections had been received. Subject to a few minor tweaks and conditions, all statutory consultation responses supported the renewal of the SPZ.   Although the Committee supported the renewal of the SPZ there remained some concern over the depth of the Height Controlled Zone along the northern boundary. Following discussion by Members it was proposed that  that the depth of this zone be extended from 15 to 30 metres.  

Members also requested clarity around whether permissions for more controversial actions such as fracking would be covered by the SPZ and the Officer confirmed that such practices would not be included.  The SPZ related   only to basic planning permissions. Anything in addition to this would require further planning permission.

Members questioned whether additional greenery and green spaces could be incorporated into the area as part of the SPZ. It was confirmed that at a minimum, 6% of the site would be given over to landscaping, and that the plan showed strategic landscaping zones, predominantly on the frontage or close to residential areas.

Resolved-  That Cabinet be recommended to adopt the new Slough Trading Estate Simplified Planning Zone Scheme with effect from 12^th November 2014, for 10 years subject to the Height Controlled Zone along the northern boundary being extended in depth from 15 to 30 metres.