388 Chessington Road, West Ewell, KT19 9EG

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

• the effect of the proposed development on the character and appearance of the area
• the effect of the proposed development on protected species
• whether or not the mandatory biodiversity net gain (BNG) requirements are met
• the effect of the proposed development on the living conditions of neighbouring occupiers, with particular reference to privacy
• whether or not the proposed development would provide adequate living conditions for future occupiers, with particular reference to the provision of living space

What decided it

The substantial and demonstrable conflict with development plan policies on character and appearance, combined with unresolved concerns about protected species and biodiversity net gain, outweighed the limited housing and socio-economic benefits of four dwellings, such that the proposal did not constitute sustainable development.

The adverse impacts of harmful effects on character and appearance, undemonstrated protected species mitigation, and unmet biodiversity net gain requirements significantly and demonstrably outweighed the limited benefits of four dwellings and socio-economic gains, such that the presumption in favour of sustainable development did not apply.