Plans for pet shelter turned down again

2:57pm Monday 26th February 2007

AN ANIMAL-LOVING Rendcomb woman will have to go back to the drawing board for a third time after plans for a pet shelter were again turned down.

Joan Timmins had wanted to create a special shelter in the grounds of her home at Springfield House for dogs, cats, ducks and chickens.

But her plans were turned down back in November when councillors on Cotswold District Council's planning committee decided it would have a negative impact on the local surroundings.

Last week her latest plans, for a similar but smaller constuction in wood were also knocked back after the committee again decided it would harm the nearby landscape.

One objector, Richard Norton, spoke to the meeting about why he felt the plans were inappropriate. He said the shelter would be visible from the Whiteway and would spoil the view in the area, which is part of the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Several councillors expressed concerns over the distance from the proposed shelter and Mrs Timmins' home.

Cllr Sue Herdman said: "I have nothing against the building at all but it is in the wrong position. I would be happy if it was down by either of the garages but not here."

Cllr David Broad, member for the neighbouring ward of Chedworth, said Mrs Timmins' property was already visible from Chedworth Airfield and a new building would have a disproportionate effect on the ANOB.

Local residents also wrote to CDC about their concerns over what they saw as a potential eyesore in an attractive area.

Councillors voted against officer recommendations and turned down the application on the grounds the building was not in a suitable position.

After the meeting Mrs Timmins refused to comment other than to say the decision was "unfair".

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