Agenda item

Part two storey, part single storey side/rear extension, enlargement of roof space to create additional habitable roof space, creation of basement level, porch to front and single storey outbuilding to rear for use as a gym

Recommendations: Approval

RESOLVED: That the application be approved as per officer’s recommendation and changes in the addendum.

Part two storey, part single storey side/rear extension, enlargement of roof space to create additional habitable roof space, creation of basement level, porch to front and single storey outbuilding to rear for use as a gym.

Officers provided an overview of the application, highlighted the addendum and made a recommendation for approval.

A petitioner spoke in objection of the application and provided a chronology of events. It was submitted that the revised amendments in the application were inadequate and the poor quality of plans did not address the concerns raised. The plans did not include key information, lacked in dimensions and there were inconsistencies. Reference was made to the petitioner’s addendum document that was circulated to Members prior to the meeting, and it was explained that the bulk of the proposed development had not been resolved and there were uncertainties regarding the basement. It was submitted that the basement would provide non-essential living room space in an already large five bedroom property. It was further submitted that the development was unnecessary, inadequately planned and posed a risk on other properties. The Committee was urged to reject the application.

A representative for the applicant addressed the Committee and explained that there was no over dominance. The previous application was refused due to the size and bulk which failed to harmonise with the original dwelling. Following discussion with officers, a revised application was submitted with the removal of the two storey extension. There were already similar extensions in the street that had been approved and development would only be carried out during specific times to avoid causing disruption to neighbouring properties. It was submitted that, as highlighted in the officer’s report, the proposed development would not have a detrimental impact on neighbouring properties and the basement plans had been assessed by officers who raised no objections. It was reiterated that any concerns could be secured by conditions and the property would not be used for rental purposes. The Committee was requested to uphold the planning officer’s recommendation for approval.

Councillor John Hensley spoke as Ward Councillor and questioned whether a ground water assessment and shadow assessment had been undertaken. 

It was clarified that the revised plans that had been circulated to Members were the correct plans and there were no discrepancies. A summary of key differences between the previous and current application was also provided for Members. Members were asked to only consider the verified documentation.

It was noted that the flood sustainable urban drainage (SuD) strategy had been conditioned pre commencement. Officers confirmed that they were confident that there would be no issues with flooding however the form that it would take still needed to be agreed. This would need to be approved prior to any commencement of works. 

The relationship with neighbouring properties was discussed and Members were reasonably comfortable with the reduction in size and scale. Clarification was sought on the basement terrace area landscaping. The Committee noted that the applicant had taken steps to address previous concerns, and the application was now in compliance with policies. It was further noted that there was a favourable sun and day light assessment. 

The Committee was satisfied that the suggested conditions would be robust. As such, the officer’s recommendation was moved and seconded. Upon being put to a vote, there were six votes in favour of the motion and two abstentions.

RESOLVED: That the application be approved as per officer’s recommendation subjecting to the amendment to condition 8 regarding the terracing around the basement and changes in the addendum.