The application site is to the south of an existing development site of 5 dwellings with the approved access to those properties to the west boundary. Due to the restricted size of the site resulting from the constructed access the proposal would represent an overdevelopment which would result in a cramped and contrived appearance, contrary to the scale and character of existing plots within the immediate area and therefore would be out of keeping with the established pattern of residential development within the locality. The proposal would be contrary to Policies T3a and D2 of the Sedgemoor District Local Plan and Section 12 of the National Planning Policy Framework.

The extensive network of existing watercourses across the district are of critical importance in managing flood risk. Development located in close proximity to them must not therefore prevent their ongoing function, including ensuring appropriate access and maintenance arrangements in the interests of managing flood risk. Development within the buffer zone of such watercourses would result in a restriction in the ability to maintain such features. Due to the restricted size of the plot the proposed dwelling and associated boundary treatments would be within close proximity of the existing watercourse to the north boundary of the site. The buffer provided on the northern bank of the watercourse to the north of the dwelling has already been reduced to 6m and the development now proposed would reduce this further. This would impact on access for routine inspection and maintenance of the watercourse, which would potentially result in an increase in flood risk to the site and neighbouring properties. The proposal is therefore contrary to Policy D1 of the Sedgemoor Local Plan and Section 14 of the National Planning Policy Framework.