Birchlands, Lords Moor Lane, Strensall, York, YO32 5XF

Planning appeal 6005895 at Birchlands, Lords Moor Lane, Strensall, York, YO32 5XF (City of York Council) was dismissed on 29 May 2026 by Inspector Caines A, by written representations. The main issue, as the Inspector framed it: The effect of the development on the integrity of the Strensall Common Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

detached house to the rear

Authority: City of York Council
Appeal type: minor · Planning Appeal
Procedure: Written Representations
Development: residential · Minor Dwellings
Inspector: Caines A
Postcode: YO32 5XF

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

The effect of the development on the integrity of the Strensall Common Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)

What decided it

The proposal results in a net increase in residential units within the 400 metre exclusion zone around Strensall Common SAC and SSSI, and adverse effects on the integrity of the site cannot be ruled out, contrary to Policy GI2a of the adopted Local Plan and paragraph 195 of the Framework.

The limited benefit of a single market dwelling and positive sustainability features were outweighed by the conflict with the development plan and the statutory protection afforded to the SAC and SSSI, with habitats protection providing a strong reason for refusal that overrides the presumption in favour of sustainable development.

What the Inspector cited

Development plan policies: Policy GI2Policy GI2aPolicy DH1
National Planning Policy Framework: Paragraph 11Paragraph 193Paragraph 195
Judgments: Mansell v Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council (2017)

How the Inspector dealt with each one is set out in the app, in order: the development plan, national policy, housing land supply, other considerations and the planning balance, beside the letter.

See how each was applied

The decision letter

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The main issues, what decided it, the planning balance and the policies and judgments listed as cited are read from the published letter by Town Planner Pro and are our summary, not the Inspector’s words; the letter itself is the record. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Research, not advice.