In the opinion of the Local Planning Authority, it has not been satisfactorily demonstrated, through the submission of a valid financial viability assessment, that an affordable housing contribution cannot be included within part of the development proposal. The proposal is therefore contrary to Core Policies B and J which require the provision of a proportion of affordable housing in new housing developments within the service villages, of which Sleights is one, unless a viability assessment demonstrates that the provision of affordable housing is not financially viable.
In the opinion of the Local Planning Authority the scale, height, massing and density of the proposed dwellings would result in an overbearing impact on both the street scene of Coach Road and the residential amenities enjoyed by neighbouring properties, to the detriment of the character of the immediate and wider area. The development would therefore be contrary to Development Policy 3 of the Local Development Plan which seeks to maintain and enhance the distinctive character of the National Park by ensuring that the scale, height, massing, and design are compatible with surrounding buildings; and that the standards of design details are high and complement that of the local vernacular.