The most frustrating thing about being on the planning committee, although I thoroughly enjoy it, is not being able to let residents know my views on a planning application prior to the meeting.  If I do this, I lose my vote.

However, this doesn’t stop me being able to guide you through the planning process as your ward councillor and it was great last night to be able to assist a family in their quest to extend their property to house their young family.  The Liberal Democrats, when they were running the council, introduced a facility whereby applicants and objectors have a chance to address the committee on a planning application.  For a residential applicants, this means you are able to put your own personal views across.  Last night’s application in Crescent Road was unanimously approved once the resident had spoken and I supported him through talking about the area in which his property was sited.  It’s great to be able to help!

We were also able to approve another Brentwood West application in Westway after a lengthy discussion about a shed!

In addition to this, some fairly significant applications went through.  Cllr Carter asked for refusal to operate an MOT testing centre in the Wates Way Industrial estate, fearing noise and traffic issues but, unfortunately, this one was approved when everyone voted against this motion.  But we were all pleased to be able to vote for the refurbishment of Merrymeade House (a beautiful building that will be brought back to former glories) and for an assembly hall for the Ursuline in Warley which will give the pupils the opportunity to take their assemblies together and free up a wonderful room for other activities.