PLANNING COMMITTEE AGENDA - Hartlepool Borough Council

Planning Committee – 25 th February 2009 4.1
2.8 Although the module is large it is not considered to be out of keeping with the
surrounding area. The module is sited close to the boundary of the power station
and in terms of scale is similar to equipment at the power station site. The
application proposes the reuse of a module which otherwise would be scrapped,
therefore the reuse of the module is considered to be sustainable and should be
encouraged. It was recommended that a temporary approval for 5 years was
attached to the previous approval (H/2008/0525), which was similar to the Heerema
approval for a similar structure (which now has permanent approval). However after
further consideration it is considered that the location of the module which is within
an industrial setting and sited adjacent the power station, that it would be difficult to
sustain an objection to removing the condition in terms of visual amenity.
2.9 In terms of the response from National Grid, moderate risk means that if there is
any large scale equipment e.g. cranes etc to erect the building then plans need to be
shown to National Grid for consideration. After discussions National Grid are aware
that the module is onsite as part of Able’s approval for the demolition of offshore
structures and they offer no objection to the scheme.
2.10 In terms of highway safety, the Traffic and Transportation team have confirmed
that there are no major highway implications with the proposed change of use of the
module.
2.11 The development was considered acceptable by the Planning Committee in
December 2008 in terms of the use of the module as offices and the Health and
Safety Executive have no objection to the scheme.
Conclusion
2.12 Having regard to the policies identified in the Hartlepool Local Plan 2006 above
and in particular consideration of the effects of the development on the amenity of
area in terms of outlook and its appearance the development is considered
satisfactory.
RECOMMENDATION – Minded to approve the application subject to no
substantially different objections and the condition below, however the final decision
be delegated to the Development Control Manager:
1. The development hereby permitted shall be carried out in accordance with the
plans and details received by the Local Planning Authority in relation to
application H/2008/0525 on 15th and 19th September 2008, unless otherwise
agreed in writing by the Local Planning Authority.
For the avoidance of doubt.
4.1 Planning 25.02.09 Pl anning apps 13