19 Russell Street, WINDSOR, SL4 1HQ

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

• the effect of the proposal on the character and appearance of the area, including whether it would preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the Inner Windsor Conservation Area, and its effect on the setting of Alexandra Court
• whether the scheme would provide appropriate living conditions for the occupants of the proposed houses, with particular regard to the availability of outdoor amenity space, and accessibility to the proposed refuse and cycle storage areas
• the effect of the proposal on the safety and convenience of highway users
• whether the proposal would include appropriate sustainability and carbon off-set measures

What decided it

The scheme's failure to preserve or enhance the character and appearance of the Inner Windsor Conservation Area and its harmful effect on the non-designated heritage asset of Alexandra Court, which provides a strong reason for refusal notwithstanding the Council's inability to demonstrate a five-year housing land supply.

The modest public benefits in respect of housing supply contribution and local economic support do not outweigh the less than substantial harm to the Inner Windsor Conservation Area, and the scheme does not benefit from the Framework's presumption in favour of sustainable development due to its conflict with heritage protection policies.