2 Stillhouse Lane, Bristol, BS3 4EB

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

• whether the proposed development would be suitably located in relation to flood risk
• whether the living conditions of future occupiers of the proposed development would be sufficient, with particular regard to internal space, natural light, outlook and ventilation
• whether satisfactory waste (refuse and recycling) and bicycle storage would be provided
• the effect of the proposed development on the character and appearance of the Bedminster CA
• whether the proposed development would result in an unacceptable loss of employment land
• whether the housing mix would be suitable
• whether the energy requirements of the proposed development would be acceptable

What decided it

The failure to demonstrate that there are no reasonably available sites appropriate for the proposed development in areas with a lower risk of flooding, combined with the inadequate living conditions for future occupiers and insufficient waste and bicycle storage, provided clear reasons for refusal that outweighed the substantial benefits of housing supply.

The significant benefits of housing supply in an area with substantial shortfall, use of previously developed land, and economic and environmental benefits were outweighed by significant and unacceptable harm from flood risk, inadequate living conditions for future occupiers, and prejudice to the adjoining site's development potential.