Agenda item

Single storey rear extension.

Public Participation

Mr David Shearer spoke in objection to the application

Mrs Jaqueline Shearer spoke in objection to the application

The Senior Planning Officer introduced the application for a proposed single storey rear kitchen extension and link, which would not result in any demonstrable harm to the character or setting of the existing house which was a grade II listed building, nor would it have a harmful impact on the appearance of the wider Cholderton Conservation Area.

Following an earlier application for an identical development which was refused planning permission on 19 March 2015 and dismissed at appeal on 15 October 2015, the application was accompanied by a Sun Study and BRE compliance statement which indicated that the proposed extension would not cause loss of light to the neighbouring property.  The Sun Study has been independently scrutinised by another expert in this field and found to be sound.

Appendix A of the report detailed the appeals decision, listing the two reasons for refusal, of which reason one had not been supported by the Inspector, which left reason two standing. The application was recommended for approval.

Members of the Committee then had the opportunity to ask technical questions of the Officers. It was noted that the sun study was aimed at providing a rounded view through the year.

Members of the public then had the opportunity to present their views to the Committee, as detailed above.

The Unitary Division Member Cllr John Smale then addressed the Committee stating that the size of the development was 60% of the original property size, which he felt to be overdevelopment on this plot. The development was too close, only 0.8m from the neighbouring boundary. His concerns had been raised with the Parish Meeting who supported them, however did not wish to speak at the meeting.

The Committee discussed the application, noting that on a previous site visit to the development site and the neighbouring property it was felt that the development would result in an unacceptable loss of light and overshadowing to the neighbouring property, which included ambient light as well as direct sunlight. It was felt that a development of 60% the size of the original property was excessive for a property in the existing row of Victorian cottages. The sun study took readings at staggered times of the day, including at 8am and again at 10am, missing the sun which had risen to a point where it shone on the neighbouring property at 8.09am until it passed before 10am, thus not providing a reflective account.

Cllr John Smale moved a motion for refusal with reasons; this was seconded by Cllr Chris Devine.

Following debate on the reasons for refusal, an amendment to the motions reason for refusal to take out ‘loss of light’ was put forward by Cllr Westmoreland, this was seconded by Cllr Smale.

Resolved

That the application be REFUSED for the following reasons:

1. The proposed single storey extension by reason of its height and proximity to the boundary with No 23/24 Cholderrton (Saddlestone Cottage) would have an adverse impact on the amenities of No 23/24 Cholderton in particular overshadowing contrary to core policy57 (vii) of the Wiltshire Core Strategy.