Issue - decisions

The Committee received an application for retrospective planning permission.

The application sought approval for the erection of a single storey garage extension to the rear (south), a single storey extension to the east side including front bay, attic conversion incorporating dormer windows to the front (north) and rear (south), and a sunken balcony to the east side.

The Committee received a representation in objection to the application from a resident of 3 Wynborne Close.

The representation covered the following issues:

       i.          Objected to the sunken balcony on the east side.

     ii.          Raised the following concerns:

a.    It was not necessary to have a balcony, a window would let in light / air.

b.    Overlooking.

c.    Impact on neighbours’ amenities.

   iii.          Took issue with:

a.    Actions taken by the Planning Department during the application process.

b.    The recommendation for retrospective planning permission.

c.    Building work undertaken did not match the approval given.

Councillor Todd-Jones (Arbury Ward Councillor) addressed the Committee about the application.

       i.          Referred to paragraph 2.3 on P234 and paragraph 7.1 on P237. Specifically the Design & Access Statement in the previously approved application.

a.    Obscured glazing had been recommended.

b.    The Statement said neighbouring properties would not be overlooked.

     ii.          The application did not satisfy Local Plan policy 3.14b (extended building) as work did not match approved plans. The design as approved was acceptable however.

   iii.          No. 6 Wynborne Close’s amenity space was now overlooked by the Applicant’s balcony, obscure film on the windows would not mitigate this.

The Committee:

Resolved (by 7 votes to 1) to grant the application for retrospective 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.