Spring Paddock, Gaydon Road, Bishops Itchington, Southam, Warks, CV47 2QX

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

• whether the elements of the proposal are each acceptable in principle
• the effect of the development on the character and appearance of the area
• whether it has been shown that any impact on protected species would be minimised
• if any harm is found in connection with any/all of the above, whether any adverse impacts significantly and demonstrably outweigh the scheme's benefits

What decided it

The combined harms arising from the lack of functional need for the dwelling, the unacceptable visual impact of the barn on the rural character and appearance of the area, and the failure to demonstrate that protected species would not be adversely affected, when taken together, significantly and demonstrably outweighed the benefits of housing delivery in a district with a shortfall.

The harms from the principle of development, character and appearance impact, and failure to demonstrate biodiversity protection significantly and demonstrably outweighed the benefits of one additional dwelling and moderate economic benefits, despite the Local Planning Authority's inability to demonstrate a five-year housing land supply.