Plans that will see a residential property in Winnersh used for commercial filming have been approved, having originally been refused in October 2023.
Mr and Mrs Pandey has applied for permission for a change of use for their property at Rivermead on Robin Hood Way in Winnersh from residential to include commercial filming use.
The original planning application noted the filming is generally by crews from regional Indian television studios, and a lot of the filming takes place within the property which is furnished with a mix of British and Asian furnishings.
Last week Wokingham Borough Council approved the plans, despite a large number of objections.
It said that commercial filming would be permitted to take place for no more than 28 days per year, and that the landowner needs to maintain an up-to-date register of filming dates together with the company name, addresses and contact details.
It said: “In granting this permission the local planning authority has had regard to the special circumstances of the case and the material considerations.
“A commercial use in this location may not be acceptable in all instances and to prevent the loss of single family house in the borough.”
It also imposed noise restrictions and limits of when commercial filming can take place.
The approval also included the need for the implementation of a car park management plan.
Objections to the plan included those from several councillors, as well as from Winnersh Parish council.
Councillor Prue Bray noted the adverse impact on neighbouring residential properties, and from: “.. problems caused by the number of vehicles that are parking on the road.”
Cllr Paul Fishwick noted that: “.. although there is some off-street parking available, on many occasions numerous types of vehicles are parked on the street causing an issue for local residents and visitors.”
The planning and transport committee of Winnersh Parish Council said: “The commercial activity within the residential area is a major concern.
“This area is not suitable for the increased traffic and footfall.”
The committee also raised its concerns regarding noise and light pollution.
Wokingham Borough Council approved the plans on February 19.
