Statement on Refusal of Pinewood Planning Applications from the Chairman of the Planning Committee, Mrs. Jacquetta Lowen-Cooper

The Pinewood proposal is one of the most contentious and difficult planning applications that the Council has had to deal with for many years.

Pinewood acknowledge that their proposals are contrary to Green Belt policy, but they argued very strongly that there were exceptional reasons for allowing their proposals.

All parties including objectors, Pinewood themselves and councillors were able to present their views to the Committee. The Committee then had a full discussion of the issues and carefully considered all the arguments for and against the proposals before coming to the decision that it would refuse to give permission for the proposed development.

The Committee was firmly of the view that to have allowed this development of over 110 acres in the Green Belt and Colne Valley Park, would not only have caused significant degradation to the local environment and quality of life of local residents but would also have set a precedent thus potentially undermining the Council’s future ability to resist inappropriate Green Belt developments elsewhere in the District.

The Council has a strong track record of defending the Green Belt against inappropriate development for the wider benefit of all those who live and work in the District. The very fact South Bucks remains such a desirable place to live is due in no small part to the protection afforded by our Green Belt policies.

However it is also important to stress that this decision should not be seen as anti-Pinewood. The Council fully recognises the importance of Pinewood to the local and the wider economy and has been very supportive of the company over many years. We hope to be able to continue in that support of Pinewood’s existing thriving site.

It is of course open to Pinewood to appeal the Council’s refusal decision and if they do so then a Government Inspector will hold an Inquiry and decide whether to support the Council’s refusal or to grant permission against the local decision. The Council will continue to defend its Green Belt policies and this decision robustly and actively in the event of an appeal.

ends.