Lucinda House, Moor Lane, The Green, Stalham , NR12 9QD

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

• the effect of the proposed development on the character and appearance of the site and its surroundings, including its biodiversity value
• whether the proposal is consistent with policies relating to housing in rural areas, having regard to the Council's spatial strategy
• whether local shops, services, and facilities would be accessible to the proposed development
• whether suitable living conditions would be provided for occupiers of the proposed development, with regard to external space
• the effect of the proposed development on the living conditions of the occupiers of neighbouring houses

What decided it

The significant and overriding weight of the conflict with development plan policies on spatial strategy and character and appearance, which outweighed the limited benefits of housing delivery, self-build provision, and accessibility.

The limited benefits of housing delivery, self-build provision, economic benefits and accessibility were outweighed by the significant harm to character and appearance and conflict with the spatial strategy, resulting in a finding that the proposal was not sustainable development and permission should be refused.