Overview
The complainant (Mr C) raised concerns about the handling by East Lothian Council (the Council) of an application (the Application) for planning consent for a new house on a main road opposite his own property in a conservation village in East Lothian. He was particularly concerned about the likely dominant effect on a former smithy and on parking congestion on the main road.
Specific complaint and conclusion
The complaint which has been investigated is that in recommending approval of the Application, the Council's Transportation Division and planning case officer failed to require compliance with relevant Council planning policy in respect of car-parking provision (partially upheld).
Redress and recommendation
The Ombudsman recommends that the Council review the present procedures for the need for site visits by their Transportation Division officers prior to responding to consultations on planning applications.
The Council accepted that recommendation and will act on it accordingly.