20-22 Florence Road, BOURNEMOUTH, BH5 1HF

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

• the effect of the proposed development on the character and appearance of the area, including whether it would preserve the setting of the Church of St. Andrew, a Grade II listed building, and that of the Boscombe Manor Conservation Area
• whether the proposed development would provide a suitable mix of housing
• whether the proposed development would make adequate provision for affordable housing
• the effect of the proposed development on the living conditions of future occupiers, as well as the occupiers of No. 24 Florence Road, with particular regard to outlook, daylight, privacy and access to outdoor private space
• whether the proposed development would be constructed in a sustainable manner, taking account of development plan policies

What decided it

The less than substantial harm to the setting of the Grade II listed Church of St. Andrew, which the Inspector found was not outweighed by the benefits of housing delivery on a brownfield site, combined with the Framework's protection for designated heritage assets which disapplied the tilted balance.

The benefits of 22 flats on a brownfield site with potential enhanced biodiversity were afforded significant weight but did not outweigh the less than substantial harm to the setting of the listed building, which alone was substantial; the tilted balance was not invoked due to the Framework's protection for designated heritage assets.