Automotive House, Grays Place, Slough, SL2 5AF

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

• The effect of the proposal on the character and appearance of the area
• The effect of the proposal on the living conditions of existing occupiers at Intercity House with specific reference to outlook
• Whether the proposal accords with Policy SKL 3 of the Slough Local Development Framework Site Allocations DPD which requires the Stoke Road and Mill Street site allocation to be comprehensively planned
• The effect of the proposal on highway safety with specific reference to the vehicular and pedestrian access
• Whether the proposal would provide a safe and accessible environment for existing and future occupiers
• Whether the proposal makes adequate provision for affordable housing with particular reference to whether there is a need for a late-stage viability review

What decided it

The significant harm to the character and appearance of the area and to the living conditions (outlook) of occupiers of Intercity House significantly and demonstrably outweighed the housing, economic and sustainability benefits.

The significant harm to character/appearance and to neighbours' outlook, weighed against substantial/significant benefits including housing land supply contribution, economic benefits, sustainable location and reduced car use, tipped against the proposal even under the tilted balance in paragraph 11(d).