Planning & Highways Committee – 11th March 2025
During the Planning Committee Meeting held on March 11, 2025, the committee reviewed several key items, including an apology from Councillor Pemberton and the unanimous approval of the previous meeting’s minutes. The committee discussed two planning applications: the Thatcham Garden Centre proposal for new commercial units and a drive-through café, which raised concerns about traffic flow and access points before the committee voted to raise no objections; and the application for a first-floor extension and loft conversion at 242 Benham Hill, which faced no objections from neighbours and also received a vote of no objection. Additionally, the committee addressed the Local Plan Review, noting a significant response from Natural England and awaiting the inspector’s final report, and deliberated on the procedure and implications of Section 154 Nuisance Obstruction Notices related to vegetation overhanging highways, deciding to seek further information. Action items included requests for clarifications and policy documents from West Berkshire Council regarding obstruction definitions and property boundaries.
