PLANNING STATEMENT Mr R W Carr Hi Range Limited Wychnor Bridges Wychnor Burton-on-Trent Staffordshire DE13 8BZ Planning Statement
1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 This Planning Statement has been prepared to accompany a revised planning application submitted to East Staffordshire Borough Council on behalf of Hi Range Limited and seeks retrospective planning permission for the retention of a building and land for use in connection with the heliport, helicopter hire and training. This application is made following a meeting held with Mrs Downes and Mr Malkin of East Staffordshire Borough Council on 8th February 2012. This is a revised application which seeks to overcome the previous reasons for refusing application P/2011/00823/JPM in December 2011 (see Appendix 1).
Planning History 1.2 The planning history of the application site is summarised in the table below.
Application No. Description Decision Date PA/04020/04 Additional factory building Approved 4th October 1984 PA/04020/05 Use of industrial buildings as Approved 6th August 1985 stonemasons PA/04020/009 Continued use of building as Approved 6th February 1995 stonemasons without compliance with Condition 1 of planning permission PA/04020/05 dated 6th August 1985 CU/04020/011 Change of use for the repair and Approved 19th June 1995 sale of helicopter components LE/04020/014 Lawful development relating to Approved 6th March 2007 the use of the hardstanding areas for parking of up to 30 vehicles for repair, stripping and dismantling of vehicles, staff and customer parking, storage of waste oil, batteries and other vehicle parts
Hi Range Limited, Wychnor Bridges, Mr R W Carr 2 Wychnor, Burton-on-Trent DE13 8BZ Planning Statement
and for the renovation, sale and distribution of vehicle parts, 75% of sales by mail order. PA/04020/016/SM Retention of a part 2 storey part Approved 27th October 2007 single storey detached building P/2011/00823/JPM Retention of a building and land Refused 2nd December 2011 for use in connection with the heliport, helicopter hire and training ENF/2011/00089 Enforcement Notice in relation to Appeal 6th January 2012 the use of land as a heliport, Pending helicopter hire and training without planning permission
The Application Site 1.3 Staffordshire Heliport is located immediately to the east of the A38 dual carriageway at Wychnor Bridges, Staffordshire. The application site comprises the southern half of the site of Hi Range Limited and comprises a 10 metre x 10 metre helipad to the east of the site and to the west of the site a single storey flat roofed building which is used to accommodate the administration connected with the use as a heliport. The southern boundary of the site is defined by an unnamed water course which the submitted Flood Risk Assessment states takes flows from the surrounding land and acts as overflow side weir from the Trent and Mersey Canal. The River Trent is located some 225 metres to the south of the site. The Trent and Mersey Canal is some 100 metres distant on the western side of the A38. To the north the site adjoins the premises of Hi Range Limited that undertakes a range of industrial uses relating to the repair, stripping and dismantling of vehicles and vehicle parts. 1.4 The nearest residential properties to the application site are Lock Cottage approximately 150 metres to the north and Wychnor Bridges Farm, approximately 200 metres to the northeast. The settlement of Wychnor is located to the west of the application site
Hi Range Limited, Wychnor Bridges, Mr R W Carr 3 Wychnor, Burton-on-Trent DE13 8BZ Planning Statement
and the A38. The dwellings at Wychnor are approximately 350 - 400 metres from the heliport at the closest point. The settlements of Efflinch and Catholme lie to the north of the site with the village of Alrewas at the south of the site. All of these settlements are in excess of 1 kilometre from the heliport. 1.5 The vehicular access to the application site is via the existing vehicular access to Hi Range Limited which is a priority junction off the A38 immediately to the north of the Hi Range premises.
The Application Proposals 1.6 Planning permission is sought for the retention of a building and the retention of the use of land in connection with the heliport, helicopter hire and training at Hi Range, Wychnor.
Hi Range Limited, Wychnor Bridges, Mr R W Carr 4 Wychnor, Burton-on-Trent DE13 8BZ Planning Statement
2.0 PLANNING POLICY
The Development Plan 2.1 The Development Plan includes the Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Joint Structure Plan 1996 - 2011 and the South Staffordshire District Local Plan.
Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Joint Structure Plan 1996 - 2011 2.2 The Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Joint Structure Plan 1996 - 2011 was adopted on the 10th May 2001 and was amended in accordance with the ruling of the High Court on the 5th February 2002. 2.3 Structure Plan Policy D1 states that sustainable forms and patterns of new development will be sought which include concentrating as much new development as possible within the fabric of existing urban areas and considering all possibilities for re-use of land and buildings. Structure Plan Policy D2 relates to the design and environmental quality of development and requires that development should generally conserve and, where possible improve, the quality of life and the environment. In this respect the development should "be informed by, or sympathetic to, the character and qualities of its surroundings, in its location, scale and design". Structure Plan Policy D2 also requires development to be "designed to relate to its surrounding context whilst not excluding innovative and creative designs". 2.4 Structure Plan Policy R3 relates to recreational facilities in the countryside and indicates that proposals for the development of
Hi Range Limited, Wychnor Bridges, Mr R W Carr 5 Wychnor, Burton-on-Trent DE13 8BZ Planning Statement
facilities and the use of land and water resources for sport and recreation in the countryside away from the urban fringe will be permitted provided that they involve activities more suited to sites away from built up areas; they will not have unacceptable adverse impact on the environment, natural and cultural heritage areas with countryside protection, any traffic generated can be accommodated on the road system without undue adverse effect; the form, bulk and general design of the development including any necessary new buildings respect the character and the countryside. 2.5 Structure Plan Policy T19 relates to airfields and heliports and states that proposals for the development of new facilities for private business and recreational flying will be assessed in terms of the impact upon the surrounding environment, landscape and local settlements; the economic and employment advantages, access from the main population and employment centres in the city and county and neighbouring areas; and the existence of suitably located alternative flying facilities. In the explanatory memorandum to the Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Structure Plan it states (paragraph 8.82) that the County and City Councils acknowledge the demand for small scale business and recreational flying. If demand cannot be met within existing facilities, new development will be considered. Such proposals “will be assessed against economic benefits and environmental considerations, such as aircraft noise, increases in road traffic, visual intrusion, energy use and air pollution”. 2.6 Structure Plan Policy E7 states that the needs of existing industry will be supported “by permitting firms to extend or expand unless unacceptable environmental conditions would result”.
Hi Range Limited, Wychnor Bridges, Mr R W Carr 6 Wychnor, Burton-on-Trent DE13 8BZ Planning Statement
2.7 Structure Plan Policy T1A requires the development proposals to be located, sited and designed so that the most convenient, safe and attractive choice of transport mode is progressively (a) avoidance of unnecessary travel; (b) walking and cycling; (c) public transport, with rail preferred to road; and (d) private vehicles. 2.8 Structure Plan Policy NC1 states that the countryside will be safeguarded for its own sake and that non-renewable and natural resources will be afforded protection. New buildings in the open countryside will be strictly controlled. Development which is acceptable with respect to other Structure Plan Policies should respect the character of the countryside and maintain or improve the environment.
East Staffordshire Local Plan 2.9 The East Staffordshire Local Plan was adopted in July 2006. Local Plan Policy NE1 relates to development outside of development boundaries and states that planning permission will not be granted for development in such locations unless it cannot reasonably be located within a Development Boundary and is either essential to the efficient working of the rural economy, development otherwise appropriate within the countryside or development close to an existing settlement providing facilities for the general public or local community which are reasonably accessible by bicycle or by public transport. Local Plan Policy BE1 relates to design and indicates that the Council will approve applications for development which respond positively to the context of the area surrounding the site of the application and in themselves exhibit a high quality of design which corresponds to or enhances surrounding development.
Hi Range Limited, Wychnor Bridges, Mr R W Carr 7 Wychnor, Burton-on-Trent DE13 8BZ Planning Statement
2.10 Local Plan Policy T1 states that the Borough Council will not permit development where it would unacceptably harm the safety and efficient use of the highways network, or compromise the implementation of the local transport plan area strategies. Local Plan Policy T2 states that planning permission will not be granted for a development which by reason for its traffic generation or otherwise would have a significant adverse effect on the safe and expeditious movement of long distance through traffic on the trunk road network.
Hi Range Limited, Wychnor Bridges, Mr R W Carr 8 Wychnor, Burton-on-Trent DE13 8BZ Planning Statement
3.0 PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 3.1 The application proposals comprise two parts: The first part is the operational development relating to the retention of a building to accommodate the administrative function of the heliport and the second part is the use of the site as a heliport. It is evident from the Planning Officer’s Delegated Report in respect of the previous application on this site (P/2011/00823/JPM – Appendix 2) that the Planning Officer raises no concerns in respect of the design, appearance and siting of the proposed building. The building is sited immediately to the south of the existing buildings at Hi Range and in this respect the Planning Officer states:
“In relation to the buildings these are hidden in the street scene by the existing buildings relating to Hi Range and given their low level portable scale, and the proximity to existing buildings and the A38 it is not considered they are damaging to the character and appearance of the street scene in this location.”
3.2 Highway safety was an issue that was raised during the course of the previous application on this site by local residents and is indeed identified by the Council as a reason for issuing the Enforcement Notice dated 6th January 2012 (Appendix 3). However, it is evident that the Highways Agency have previously raised no objections to the development (see Appendix 4) subject to display of signage on the A38 advising the motorist of the likelihood of low flying helicopters. It is evident from the Planning Officer’s Delegated Report (Appendix 2) that this “could be secured via condition
Hi Range Limited, Wychnor Bridges, Mr R W Carr 9 Wychnor, Burton-on-Trent DE13 8BZ Planning Statement
and therefore it is not considered that refusal on highway safety grounds could be substantiated”. 3.3 In the light of the above, it is submitted that the two outstanding issues to be addressed in this revised application are:
1. Whether or not the development impacts upon the living conditions of local residents. 2. Whether or not the use of the site as a heliport is an acceptable form of development in this rural location.
Issue 1: Living Conditions 3.4 It is evident from the Planning Officer’s Delegated Report in respect of the previous application (Appendix 2) that Environmental Health had requested the submission of a Noise Assessment in relation to the scheme “which has not been forthcoming; therefore the impact of the heliport on local settlements cannot be accurately considered and no option is available to the LPA other than to refuse the scheme”. 3.5 This revised planning application is accompanied by a Noise Assessment undertaken by Walker Beak Mason, Consultants in Noise and Vibration. The Noise Assessment considers noise from helicopter activity associated with the helicopter training school at Staffordshire Heliport. This includes results of baseline noise monitoring to determine the existing noise environmental in the nearest residential property to the heliport and provides an assessment of noise from helicopter activity associated with the helicopter training facility. 3.6 Walker Beak Mason summarises that:-
Hi Range Limited, Wychnor Bridges, Mr R W Carr 10 Wychnor, Burton-on-Trent DE13 8BZ Planning Statement
“based on the findings of the helicopter noise modelling as presented in this report and comparison with the existing average ambient noise levels, the heliport development would not give rise to a significant noise impact at the settlements of Efflinch, Catholme and Alrewas. At residential locations very close to the heliport (e.g. Lock Cottage), noise levels from the heliport are unlikely to be significant due to the high levels of existing road traffic noise from the adjacent A38 dual carriageway.
At the village of Wychnor and the dwellings adjacent to the canal, the majority of helicopter activity is at or below the average ambient noise levels. Calculated noise level due to helicopter activity only exceed the average ambient noise levels by up to 4 dB due to use of the R44 helicopter, which, as indicated in the report, is only used for around 20% of flight activity. It is considered that the noise impact from the proposed heliport would generally not be significant for these dwellings.”
Issue 2: Principle of Development 3.7 The Council’s reasons for refusing the previous application on this site (P/2011/00823/JPM) alleged that the use constitutes unnecessary development in the countryside contrary to Structure Plan Policy T19. Structure Plan Policy T19 states that proposals for the use of existing operational airfields or heliports and their development of new facilities for private business and recreational flying will be assessed against four criteria. It is now proposed to assess the proposed development in the context of these criteria.
Hi Range Limited, Wychnor Bridges, Mr R W Carr 11 Wychnor, Burton-on-Trent DE13 8BZ Planning Statement
Criterion (a) – The impact upon the surrounding environment, landscape and local settlements 3.8 The application site is located in a rural area outside of any designated Development Boundary. It is inevitable that a heliport would be located in a rural area since, as the Planning Officer states in his Delegated Report (Appendix 2) “the use is such that it could not reasonably be located within a Development Boundary, or adjoining a large number of residential dwellings”. 3.9 The application site is located immediately adjacent to the A38. The heliport has been established within the planning unit of Hi Range Limited, the lawful use of which includes a mixed use for the repair, stripping and dismantling of vehicles, storage of waste oil, batteries and other vehicle parts and for the renovation, sale and distribution of vehicle parts; and repair and sale of helicopter components. In other words, the heliport has been established on previously developed land. 3.10 The application site sits at a slightly lower level than the metalled surface of the A38(T). The buildings at the application site have been sited immediately adjacent to the existing site boundary immediately to the south of the existing range of buildings at Hi Range. Sited in the manner proposed and having regard to the fact that they are relatively low structures, having a maximum height of 2.5 metres, ensures that their visual impact is limited. This is accepted by the Planning Officer in his previous Delegated Report (Appendix 2) in which he states:
Hi Range Limited, Wychnor Bridges, Mr R W Carr 12 Wychnor, Burton-on-Trent DE13 8BZ Planning Statement
“In relation to the buildings these are hidden in the street by the existing buildings relating to Hi Range and given their low level portable scale, and the proximity of existing buildings and the A38 it is not considered they are damaging to the character and appearance of the street scene in this location.”
3.11 No part of the application site is within or adjacent to a Scheduled Ancient Monument, Conservation Area or Listed Building. No part of the site is located within or adjacent to a site of special scientific interest, a local nature reserve or any other designated site of ecological interest. 3.12 As discussed in respect of Issue 1 above, the application site is some distance from the nearest residential property. Having regard to the Noise Assessment submitted with this application, the continued use of the site as a heliport will not, subject to the use of appropriate conditions upon any planning permission that may be granted, result in unacceptable noise and disturbance to nearby residents.
Criterion (b) – The economic and employment advantages 3.13 The Government has advised (Policy EC10.1 of PPS4) that local planning authorities should adopt “a positive and constructive approach towards planning applications for economic development”. This is supported by Structure Plan Policy E7 that states that the needs of existing industry will be supported “by permitting firms to extend or expand unless unacceptable environmental conditions would result”.
Hi Range Limited, Wychnor Bridges, Mr R W Carr 13 Wychnor, Burton-on-Trent DE13 8BZ Planning Statement
3.14 The establishment of a heliport at the site of Hi Range was pursued by the applicant in order to diversify his activities from the site and assist in him being able to address the current economic conditions. As a consequence, the establishment of the heliport assists in safeguarding the jobs of the four full and one part time persons presently employed at the site and has in itself resulted in the creation of an additional position for the helicopter pilot. 3.15 The establishment of a heliport on the A38 makes a contribution to the economy of East Staffordshire insofar as it enables visitors to Burton-on-Trent and the surrounding area to arrive by helicopter, which is a particular consideration to executives of large international companies. The establishment of the heliport at the application site thus enables existing businesses and activities to offer access to their premises by helicopter where previously that facility did not exist. 3.16 The application proposals are considered to be consistent with the policies and general approach provided for economic development in securing employment in rural areas in line with the “Planning for Growth Agenda. The Planning for Growth Agenda followed a statement by the Rt Hon Greg Clarke which was published on 23rd March 2011 in the context of the previous day’s budget. The statement set out the steps the Government expects local authorities to take with immediate effect, namely a strong presumption in favour of sustainable development. 3.17 The proposed development would make use of previously developed land enabling an existing business to diversify, providing employment and economic activity. In this respect the proposed development is considered to be entirely consistent with the Planning for Growth Agenda.
Hi Range Limited, Wychnor Bridges, Mr R W Carr 14 Wychnor, Burton-on-Trent DE13 8BZ Planning Statement
Criterion (c) – Access for the main population and employment cities in the county and neighbouring areas 3.18 The application site is well located relative to the main centres of population. The site is located some 9 kilometres to the south-west of Burton-on-Trent, some 10 kilometres to the north-east of Lichfield City Centre, 2 kilometres to the north-east of Alrewas and 2 kilometres to the south of Barton under Needwood. Rugeley is located some 13 kilometres to the west of the site with Burntwood a similar distance to the south-west. Swadlincote is located some 12 kilometres to the north-east of the site and Tamworth is located some 12 kilometres to the south of the site. The application site is located immediately alongside the A38(T). Consequently, the site enjoys good access from the main population and employment centres, the city and county and neighbouring areas.
Criterion (d) – The existence of suitably located alternative flying facilities 3.19 It is evident from the reason for refusing the previous application in December 2011 (ref: PA/2011/00823/JPM – Appendix 1) and the Planning Officer’s Delegated Report (Appendix 2) that the principal concern of the Planning Authority was that the proposed development did not meet with Criterion (d) of Policy T19 insofar as the Planning Officer considered that Staffordshire Helicopters “could operate from an existing airfield, and there is no functional need for the creation of a new heliport in this location”. In this context, the Planning Officer identified the following airfields within the East Staffs catchment area:
Hi Range Limited, Wychnor Bridges, Mr R W Carr 15 Wychnor, Burton-on-Trent DE13 8BZ Planning Statement
1. East Midlands 2. Derby Airfield at Egginton 3. Tatenhill Airfield 4. Sittles Farm 5. Corks Farm 6. Abbotts Bromley 7. Shenstone Farm 8. Roddige 9. Darley Moor
East Midlands Airport 3.20 East Midlands Airport is a fully functional international airport offering commercial flights to destinations across the world. The provision of a heliport providing training for pilots and recreational flights would conflict with its operation.
Derby Airfield 3.21 Derby Airfield was established during the 1990s after it was forced to move from its previous site at Burnaston to accommodate the Toyota development. Planning permission (ref: 9/1290/0907/A – Appendix 5) was granted by the Secretary of State following his decision to call the application in for determination. It is evident from the Secretary of State’s decision at Appendix 5 that Condition ix specifically states “no training of helicopter pilots shall take place at the airfield, and there shall be no more than 20 helicopter flights per month.” In these circumstances it is respectfully submitted that Staffordshire Helicopters could not relocate from Hi Range to Derby Airfield since the existing planning permission would prevent its use for helicopter training.
Hi Range Limited, Wychnor Bridges, Mr R W Carr 16 Wychnor, Burton-on-Trent DE13 8BZ Planning Statement
Furthermore, the planning permission also limits the extent of which the helicopters can use the site for business purposes.
Tatenhill Airfield 3.22 The Planning Officer states in his Report “Out of these airfields it is known that Tatenhill has the capacity to allow Staffordshire Helicopters to function from the site, and they were previously based in Tatenhill;” 3.23 It is not known where the Planning Authority derived its information to make this statement. What is apparent is that on grounds of safety, it is difficult, if not impossible, for a heliport to operate alongside an existing airfield. In this respect, reference is made to an email from David Wood, the Chief Flying Instructor of Tatenhill Aviation, dated 10th February 2012 (see Appendix 6). In this email Mr Wood states:
“The Civil Aviation Authority requirements for helicopter training at a licensed aerodrome require that a helicopter must not operate closer than 60 metres from a fixed wing aircraft. This is due to the considerable downwash generated from helicopters which is very hazardous to fixed wing aircraft on landing or taking off.
The land used by Tatenhill Aviation meets the minimum requirements for fixed wing training at a licensed aerodrome ie, a runway with a safety run off strip of 50 metres either side of the runway. The rest of the airfield is fenced off and is used as
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farmland so is not viable for aircraft or helicopter movements, therefore Tatenhill Airfield is not suitable for helicopter training.”
Sittles Farm 3.24 The Planning Officer in his Delegated Report (Appendix 2) identifies Sittles Farm and Roddige as two separate airfields. It is apparent from visiting the site that Roddige and Sittles Farm are located adjacent to each other such that Lichfield District Council, in whose administrative area the airfields fall, have confirmed that they are treated as one airfield by the Planning Authority. 3.25 Enclosed as Appendix 7 is a copy of planning permission 05/01050/COU which was granted by Lichfield District Council to Sittles Flying Club. It will be noted from this planning permission that first of all it is a temporary planning permission expiring on 31st May 2011. (Research of Lichfield District Council’s Planning Register indicates that there has been no renewal of this temporary permission.) The reasons stated for imposing Condition 1 upon planning permission 05/01050/COU was “because of the uncertainties regarding the extent of mineral extraction in this area…”. In other words, the site has no long term future due to the fact that it is in an area that is likely to be the subject of mineral extraction. 3.26 Notwithstanding the obvious constraint of minerals at Sittles Farm, it should further be noted from planning permission 05/01050/COU that Condition 4 limits the aircraft used from the site to the “Quasar 582 or similar aircraft with no greater noise emission unless otherwise agreed in writing by the Local Planning Authority”. In other words, helicopters could not
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operate from the site since it would be in breach of the planning permission. Furthermore, having regard to the comments made by David Wood, the Chief Flying Instructor at Tatenhill Aviation, helicopters would create a considerable downwash which would be hazardous to fixed wing aircraft on landing or taking off.
Corks Farm 3.27 Corks Farm is located at Streethay Farm, on the northern fringe of Lichfield. There was no planning permission for the airfield. It became established by having been used for in excess of 10 years. The vehicular access to the airfield at Corks Farm is made via an unmanned level crossing across the Lichfield to Burton-on-Trent railway line; the only alternative access is a narrow tunnel beneath the railway line. Corks Farm made a planning application to retain a number of hangars adjacent to the airfield which were the subject of enforcement proceedings by Lichfield District Council. That application (ref: 09/01299/FUL) was refused in January 2010 (see Appendix 8). The second reason for refusal was that “the development would result in increased usage of an unmanned level crossing which would be likely to result in increased danger to the public and may prejudice future improvement of rail services using the line”. This reason for refusal followed an objection made by Network Rail. Planning permission (ref: 10/00749/FUL – Appendix 9) was subsequently granted in February 2011. The consent was only granted following negotiations with Network Rail on the basis that as the airfield was established by having been used for more than 10 years, the question of whether or not the hangars were retained did not affect the extent to which the unmanned level crossing or the existing
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tunnel beneath the railway would be used. The introduction of helicopters at Corks Farm would require planning permission. Any introduction of helicopters would increase the likelihood of the unmanned level crossing of the tunnel beneath the railway being used and hence is likely to attract objections from Network Rail. 3.28 Notwithstanding the above, having regard to the email from David Wood, Chief Flying Instructor at Tatenhill Aviation, the introduction of helicopters at Corks Farm is likely to prove hazardous to fixed wing aircraft on landing or taking off. 3.29 A further complication at Corks Farm is the fact that the current line proposed for HS2 passes directly through the airfield. In these circumstances there is little or no prospect of helicopters being able to operate from Corks Farm.
Abbotts Bromley 3.30 Abbots Bromley Airfield is located at Yeatsall Farm, Yeatsall Lane, Abbots Bromley. The airstrip comprises a grass airstrip adjacent to an operational farm. The airstrip is understood to be used by fixed wing aircraft. The site was granted a Certificate of Lawfulness (ref: LD/11528/006) in February 2000. Having regard to the comments of the Chief Flying Instructor at Tatenhill Aviation (see Appendix 6), the airfield does not look sufficiently large enough to accommodate both fixed wing and helicopters at the site.
Shenstone Farm 3.31 Shenstone Farm Airfield is operated by Shenstone Flying Group. It is evident from research from the planning history of the site that an application (ref: L920318) was made in response to initial enforcement action, to retain the airfield. That application was
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never determined. It is also evident from researching aerial photographs of the site that the airstrip has moved as a consequence of the construction of the M6 Toll. The site is located in Green Belt. It is understood that the grass strip is used by micro lights and light aircraft which would preclude use of helicopters. It is also understood that the airfield is full and does not allow visiting aircraft.
Roddige 3.32 See Sittles Farm above.
Darley Moor 3.33 Darley Moor is a former World War 2 airfield. The airfield now provides a number of uses including a motorcycle and road racing circuit. The airfield at Darley Moor is operated by Airways Airsports who offer facilities for hand gliding, paragliding and micro lighting (see pages from website at Appendix 10). Having regard to the submissions made in respect of Tatenhill Airfield above, it is evident that helicopter training could not be accommodated alongside the other air activities undertaken at Darley Moor.
3.34 In the light of the above submissions it is respectfully submitted there are no other airfields in close proximity to the site which could provide a realistic base for Staffordshire Helicopters. 3.35 It is respectfully submitted that in the light of the above circumstances the proposed development is entirely consistent with Structure Plan Policy T19.
Hi Range Limited, Wychnor Bridges, Mr R W Carr 21 Wychnor, Burton-on-Trent DE13 8BZ Planning Statement
Conclusions 3.36 In the context of the fact that the heliport has been established within the planning unit operated by Hi Range and having regard to its lawful employment use, the use of the site as a heliport, helicopter hire and training would have no greater impact upon the character and appearance of the surrounding countryside than its lawful use. 3.37 It has been demonstrated through the preparation and submission of a Noise Assessment that the use of the site as a heliport does not give rise to material harm to the living conditions of any nearby residential property by reason of noise and disturbance or any other adverse effect. The application site is relatively isolated from existing residential properties and is located immediately alongside the A38(T). Appropriate conditions can be used upon any planning permission that may be granted to safeguard the living conditions of any residential properties in the vicinity of the application site. 3.38 It is respectfully submitted that the use of the site as a heliport is entirely consistent with Structure Plan T19. The use of the site as a heliport is a use that realistically has to be located outside of any existing Development Boundary, away from concentrations of residential development, and hence needs to be located in a rural area. The proposed development can proceed without having any adverse impact upon the surrounding environment, its landscape or upon local settlement. The site enjoys good access to the main population and employment centres within East Staffordshire and the wider area. The proposed development supports employment and thus assists in the diversification of the rural economy entirely in line with the government’s Planning for Growth Agenda.
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3.39 In the light of the above circumstances, planning permission should be granted.
CET/3862 23rd February 2012
Hi Range Limited, Wychnor Bridges, Mr R W Carr 23 Wychnor, Burton-on-Trent DE13 8BZ Planning Statement
4.0 LIST OF APPENDICES
Appendix 1: Decision Notice P/2011/00823/JPM : dated 2nd December 2011
Appendix 2: Planning Officer’s Delegated Report P/2011/0923/JPM
Appendix 3: Enforcement Notice dated 6th January 2012
Appendix 4 : Consultation Response from Highways Agency dated 9th August 2011
Appendix 5 : Planning Permission 9/1290/0907/F : Airspeed Aviation Ltd : dated 3rd August 1992
Appendix 6: Email from David Wood, Chief Flying Instructor at Tatenhill Airfield dated 10th February 2012
Appendix 7: Planning Permission 05/01050/COU: Sittles Flying Club Ltd, Sittles Farm, Stockford Lane, Lichfield, WS13 8QR : dated 19th June 2006
Appendix 8: Decision Notice 09/01299/FUL : Streethay Farm, Burton Road, Lichfield : dated 28th January 2010
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Appendix 9: Planning Permission 10/00749/FUL : Streethay Farm, Burton Road, Lichfield : dated 22nd February 2011
Appendix 10: Pages from Airways Airsports Website
CET/3862 22nd February 2012
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TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING ACT 1990 REFUSAL OF PERMISSION FOR DEVELOPMENT
Date valid application received: 19/07/2011 Application No: P/2011/00823/JPM
Name and address of Agent Name and address of Applicant
AJM Planning Associates Ltd Hi Range Ltd East Wing Wychnor Bridges Wrottesley Hall Wychnor Codsall Staffordshire Wolverhampton DE13 8BZ WV8 2HT
EAST STAFFORDSHIRE BOROUGH COUNCIL in pursuance of powers under the above mentioned Act hereby REFUSES to permit:
Retention of a building and land for use in connection with the heliport, helicopter hire and training Hi Range Ltd, Lichfield Road, Wychnor, Staffordshire, DE13 8BZ in accordance with the submitted documents and plans, for the reason(s) specified hereunder:
1 Staffordshire Structure Plan Saved Policy T19 requires applications for the development of new airfields and heliports to be assessed against various criteria including the impact on the surrounding environment, landscape and local settlements, and the existence of suitably located alternative flying facilities. The application site offers training, recreational flying and re-fuelling from the site and therefore constitutes an operational heliport. There are other airfields in close proximity to the site and therefore alternative flying facilities are available. In light of these alternative sites, and unrefuted evidence that the use of the site results in unacceptable noise and disturbance to nearby residents, the proposal constitutes unnecessary new development in the countryside which is detrimental to the amenities of occupiers of nearby dwellings contrary to Staffordshire Structure Plan Saved Policies T19 and D2, East Staffordshire Local Plan Saved Policies NE1 and BE1, and the provisions of Planning Policy Guidance Note 24.
This application is refused by the under signed under powers delegated by the Borough Council in accordance with the provisions of Section 101 of the Local Government Act 1972.
Dated: 2nd December 2011 Signed:
Page 1 of 1 Philip Somerfield B.A. Dip T.P., D.M.S. M.R.T.P.I Head of Regulatory Services The Maltsters, Wetmore Road, Burton upon Trent, Staffordshire DE14 1LS www.eaststaffsbc.gov.uk Helping Conservation – Printed on recycled paper Decision Notice Del – PA Refuse
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Hi Range Limited, Wychnor Bridges, Mr R W Carr 29 Wychnor, Burton-on-Trent DE13 8BZ
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E Planning Permission 9/1290/0907/F : Airspeed Aviation Ltd : N dated 3rd August 1992 D
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Hi Range Limited, Wychnor Bridges, Mr R W Carr 30 Wychnor, Burton-on-Trent DE13 8BZ
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Email from David Wood, E Chief Flying Instructor, N at Tatenhill Airfield dated 10th February 2012 D
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Hi Range Limited, Wychnor Bridges, Mr R W Carr 31 Wychnor, Burton-on-Trent DE13 8BZ Clare Ford
From: Andy Collett [[email protected]] Sent: 10 February 2012 10:23 To: [email protected] Subject: Fwd: Helicopter operations at Tatenhill
Hi Chris please find letter below from CFI at Tatenhill Airfield it's not possible to operate anyway as it turns out they only have 50 mts either side of the runway
Cheers
Andy Collett Staffordshire Helicopters Training Ltd Staffordshire Heliport Lichfield Road Wychnor DE13 8BZ www.staffordshirehelicopters.com
Tel: 01283 575164 Mob: 07974 944720 www.flyhelis.com
Begin forwarded message:
From: dave wood
To whom it may concern Re Helicopter operations at Tatenhill airfield.
The Civil Aviation Authority requirements for helicopter training at a licenced aerodrome require that a helicopter must not operate closer than 60 Meters from a fixed wing aircraft, this is due to the considerable down wash generated from helicopters which is very hazardous to fixed wing aircraft on landing or taking off. The land used by Tatenhill Aviation meets the minimum requirements for fixed wing training at a licenced aerodrome i.e.a runway with a safety run off strip 50 meters ether side of the runway.The rest of the airfield is fenced off and is used as farm land so is not available for aircraft or helicopter movements,therefor Tatenhill airfield is not suitable for helicopter training.
David Wood. Chief flying instructor Tatenhill Aviation
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E Planning Permission 05/01050/COU : Sittles Flying Club Ltd, Sittles Farm, N Stockford Lane, Lichfield, WS13 8QR : th dated 19 June 2006 D
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Hi Range Limited, Wychnor Bridges, Mr R W Carr 32 Wychnor, Burton-on-Trent DE13 8BZ
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E Decision Notice 09/01299/FUL : Streethay Farm, Burton Road, Lichfield : N dated 28th January 2010 D
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Hi Range Limited, Wychnor Bridges, Mr R W Carr 33 Wychnor, Burton-on-Trent DE13 8BZ
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E Planning Permission 10/00749/FUL : Streethay Farm, Burton Road, Lichfield : N dated 22nd February 2011 D
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Hi Range Limited, Wychnor Bridges, Mr R W Carr 34 Wychnor, Burton-on-Trent DE13 8BZ
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Hi Range Limited, Wychnor Bridges, Mr R W Carr 35 Wychnor, Burton-on-Trent DE13 8BZ Paragliding - learn to paraglide hang glide paramotor microlight. Training courses and... Page 1 of 2
Paragliding, Hang gliding, Paramotor and Microlight School offering courses and tuition in the Midlands, the Derbyshire Peak District and France.
Airways New Products Weekend 24/ 25th March
If you want to see or demo any new kit, you must fill out a short form on our online shop and simply add the items to your wish list. To let us know you÷re coming simply use the ’ ÷Contact Us÷÷link at the bottom of the shop page or if can÷t find the kit you÷d like to demo on our shop, let us know using this link. To ensure we have the kit you wish to try out, please fill out the form and tick the newsletter box from this link and log onto our shop to let us know if you are coming!
Run By Champions Airways Airsports is run by pilots who areÀcommitted to sharing their love of flyingÀwith anyone wanting to learn to paraglide.ÀOur instructors range from aÀthree-times World Champion, World Record holders, British Cross Country Champion, British Distance Record Holder, Royal Aeroclub Gold Medal winnerÀandÀtwo members of the British Paragliding Team.À See a short video of some of our activities at the bottom of this page. Airways Airsports were chosen to teach Blue Peter presenter, Matt Baker, to fly.À We flew with him on his successful Tandem World Record breaking flight.À We are currently teaching a second Blue Peter presenter to fly (Spring 2010). But you don÷t have to take our word for it as you can see what the Free Flight Magazine, Skywings, thought of us by downloading their Hang gliding & Paragliding review of Airways Airsports.
The Next Step Thanks for taking the time to find our site. Whether you are looking for a pleasure flight in a Tandem Hang Glider or a full
http://www.airways-airsports.com/ 02/03/2012 Paragliding - learn to paraglide hang glide paramotor microlight. Training courses and... Page 2 of 2
Paragliding course, we hope your visit will be the start of one of the most exciting, demanding and rewarding adventures you will ever consider undertaking. Don't forget Airways Airsports produce more Hang glider, Paraglider, and Paramotor pilots than any other school offering Hang gliding tuition, Paragliding courses and ParamotorÀtraining in the UK. Choose your passion - Hang gliding, Paragliding, Paramotoring or Microlight flying.
Learn Paragliding, Hangliding, Paramotoring and how to Microlight at our BHPA & BMAA schools in the Peak District of Derbyshire and the AlpsÀin France. We have been teaching people to fly for nearly 20 years and in that time have earned an enviable reputation as the only full time professionally run Paragliding, Hang gliding and Microlight Airpark in the UK and now France.
10,000ft paraglidingÀballoon drop
You can now purchase Paragliding courses and vouchers online.
Write a review © Paragliding, Hangliding, Paramotoring and Microlight Training in the Derbyshire Peak District
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Airways Airsports, Ashbourne, Derbyshire | 01335 344 308 | Paragliding, Hangliding, Paramotoring and Microlight BHPA / BMAA school
Access level: public
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Airways Airsports - content area
Hang gliding - An Introduction Hang gliding is the nearest weÀcan come to flying like aÀbird.ÀÀ Flying face down, with the wing above you, letting the movement of your body steer you around the sky - the feeling is exhillarating and unique. Come and learn hang gliding with our expert team including three timesÀWorld Champion, Judy Leden MBE;ÀWorld Record holders, Judy Leden & Chris Dawes & British Team members.À You will not find a more dedicated & professional team of pilots to teach you to fly.
Hang gliders fly faster, climb better and have the best glide characteristics of all the free flight disciplines. Although slightly more demanding to learn, they allow pilots to fly in a wider range of wind and weather conditions than paragliders.ÀModernÀhang glidersÀlaunch from winches andÀaerotowÀbehind microlightsÀas well as flyingÀfrom hills.À If you want to enj oyÀthe freedom of the skies, then hang gliding is for you - come and learn hang gliding inÀthe Derbyshire Peak District. Hang glider and paraglider tows at Airways...
Learn Hang Gliding Airways Airsports offer the widest range of hang gliding courses of any school in the UK. You will learn toÀhang glide in the Derbyshire Peak District using the most efficient and progressive method available.....tandem hang gliding using aerotowing. This is the latest syllabus which can see you qualified within weeks or months rather than years.ÀBecause all your flights will be up to 3,000 feet,Àover the course of your trainingÀyou spend hours in the air rather than
http://www.airways-airsports.com/hanggliding 02/03/2012 Hang Gliding - An Introduction | Airways Airsports Page 2 of 2
minutes, with an instructor at your side to help you.À Once we have taught you to hang glide, conversion to hill or powered hang gliding is a straightforward step.
. Whether you are an experienced pilot wishing to convert to hang gliding, a lapsed hang glider pilot feeling rusty,Àor a complete beginner, you can train at your own speed, a day at a time, weekends or weekdays, or come for longer periods to progress more quickly.À
Unique Facilities Although most of our students come to the Derbyshire Peak District to learn to hang glide fromÀsurrounding areas like Manchester, Sheffield, Nottingham, Birmingham and Stoke on Trent we also attract hang gliding students from across the UK thanks to our unique facilities. We always fly from our airfield in Ashbourne, so there is no "changing site" if the wind direction changesPlease click on the buttons on the left to find out more.
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Airways Airsports, Ashbourne, Derbyshire | 01335 344 308 | Paragliding, Hangliding, Paramotoring and Microlight BHPA / BMAA school
Access level: public
http://www.airways-airsports.com/hanggliding 02/03/2012 Paragliding - Learn to Paraglide | Airways Airsports Page 1 of 1
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Paragliding - Learn to Fly a Paraglider
Learn to paraglide with Airways Airsports - Àone of the UK's most successful Paragliding schools, running paragliding courses in the Derbyshire Peak DistrictÀinÀthe Midlands.
AÀparaglider isÀa flying machine that is small enough to fit under the stairs, light enough to carry in a rucksack yet with the performance to keep you in the air for hours. Airways Airsports isÀa BHPA (British Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association) accredited school.À We can offer youÀthe quickest and easiest paragliding lessons to get youÀairborne as soon as possible as a solo pilot.
Paragliding Lessons We offer every variation of paragliding training and paragliding tuition; from paragliderÀtandem flights and beginner paraglidingÀcourses, to Club Pilot paragliding courses, conversion endorsements for hill flying, paramotoring and winch flying. Each year at Airways Airsports, over 100 paragliding qualifications are achieved by students ranging in age from 15 to 85, men and women from all walks of life. You can train at your own speed, a day at a time, weekends or weekdays, or come for longer periods to progress quicker. Please clickÀfor detailed information onÀParagliding coursesÀ& costsÀand Paragliding endorsements we offer.
Paragliding Equipment We have an on-site Paragliding Shop with paragliders for sale, paragliding equipment including harness, helmet, reserve parachute and instruments.À You can also visit our online paragliding shop:Àhttp:/ / shop.airways-airsports.com/
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Airways Airsports, Ashbourne, Derbyshire | 01335 344 308 | Paragliding, Hangliding, Paramotoring and Microlight BHPA / BMAA school
Access level: public
http://www.airways-airsports.com/paragliding 02/03/2012 Microlights - An Introduction | Airways Airsports Page 1 of 2
Airways Airsports - content area
Microlight Aviation - An Introduction Modern microlight aircraft are great fun to fly. Return to the roots of aviation with these small and versatile aircraft. All our microlight instructors are flying enthusiasts and you will really enjoy your experience of microlighting at Airways Airsports, whether you come for a trial flight, or for a full training course.
Microlight Aircraft .
If you want to learn to fly a microlight then microlight schools in Derbyshire don't come with a better package than at Airways Airsports A microlight is a small, light aircraft whose maximum take off weight doesn’t exceed 450 kg. Modern equipment and teaching methods mean that learning to fly a microlight aircraft has never been more straightforward.
Some microlights are virt ually indistinguishable from light aircraft to the casual observer. The main difference with all microlight s is that they are relatively cheap to purchase, maintain and learn to fly.
Microlight Lessons A microlight licence is simpler t o get than a conventional aircraft licence.ÀIt Àtypically requires lessÀflying time andÀcan substantially reduce the cost of get ting yourÀlicence when compared to the general aviation route. When you consider that microlights can take off and land from almost any flat area of land, you can see why they appeal t o people wanting a relatively straight forward route into powered aviat ion.
Micro light Types At Airways Airsports we offer full courses and conversions on t he most modern varieties of both t he maj or types of microlight; Flexwing and Fixed wing.
Please click on the links on the left Àfor more informat ion on these aircraft and course options.
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Airways Airsports, Ashbourne, Derbyshire | 01335 344 308 | Paragliding, Hangliding, Paramotoring and Microlight BHPA / BMAA school
Access level: public
http://www.airways-airsports.com/microlighting 02/03/2012 PLANNING STATEMENT Mr R W Carr Hi Range Limited Wychnor Bridges, Wychnor Burton-on-Trent DE13 8BZ
Our Reference: CET/3862 Date: 22nd February 2012
CT Planning Limited Trafalgar House 20a Market Street Lichfield Staffordshire WS13 6LH Tel: 01543 418779 Fax: 0844 854 9787 Email: [email protected]