| 1. | The site is within the area identified in the Local Development Framework as Metropolitan Green Belt. The Local Development Framework and Government Guidance as set out in Chapter 9 of the National Planning Policy Framework states that inappropriate development is by definition harmful to the Green Belt and should not be approved except in very special circumstances. The 1 no. non-illuminated free standing sign, by reason of its height, scale, size and prominent siting, has a detrimental impact on the appearance, openness and character of the Green Belt and appears an isolated, incongruous feature that is wholly incompatible with its rural surroundings and constitutes inappropriate development in the Green Belt. It is considered that the very special circumstances that have been submitted in this case do not justify such inappropriate development or the harm arising to the character and openness of the Green Belt at this point. The proposal is therefore contrary to Policy DC45 of the LDF Development Control Policies Development Plan Document and Chapter 9 of the NPPF. |
