Decision details

The Committee received an application for full planning permission.

The application sought approval for demolition of existing rear shed and construction of a bike store, ground floor extension, first floor extension, attic conversion incorporating rear dormers and installation of emergency exit door to side elevation.

The Planner referred to the amendment sheet which stated there was an error in paragraph 8.9 of the Officer’s report which gives an incorrect measurement for the depth of the first floor extension.

The Committee received a representation in objection to the application from a resident of Madras Road.

The representation covered the following issues:

       i.          The first floor extension would block the neighbour’s view; plus create a sense of enclosure and loss of light.

     ii.          Expected noise nuisance from the side alley which acted as the access route to the rear property units.

   iii.          Queried bin storage arrangements.

Councillor Baigent (Romsey Ward Councillor) addressed the Committee about the application.

The representation covered the following issues:

       i.          Much of Romsey housing was Victorian back to back houses with little amenity space.

     ii.          Asked the Planning Committee to consider the need for accommodation as well as appropriate amenity space for modern housing.

   iii.          Back garden developments could lead to a loss of open space due to buildings, bin and bike storage.

   iv.          The proposed building and courtyard would be in front of the existing neighbour’s window.

    v.          Queried if the 1 proposed kitchen was sufficient/suitable facility for potentially 12 people who could occupy the building as a House in Multiple Occupation.

   vi.          Queried if the kitchen emergency exit was appropriate.

 vii.          The units would be approached from the rear of the property. This was unusual and unsatisfactory.

viii.          The development would impact on its own occupants’ and neighbours’ amenities:

a.    Noise.

b.    Smell.

c.    Overdevelopment of site in an already crowded area.

d.    Pollution.

e.    Loss of privacy.

   ix.          The development would exacerbate existing traffic flow and parking issues.

    x.          Queried if appropriate bin and cycle storage would be provided.

The Committee:

Resolved (by 5 votes to 3) to grant the application for planning permission in accordance with the officer recommendation, for the reasons set out in the officer report, and subject to the conditions recommended by the officers.