Appeal 6000427

The appeal is allowed and planning permission is granted for a single storey side/rear extension following the demolition of existing conservatory at [site address] in accordance with the terms of the application, Ref 25/2187/HSE, subject to the following conditions:

The development hereby permitted shall begin not later than three years from the date of this decision.

The development hereby permitted shall be carried out in accordance with the following approved plan reference [name] & Elevations 24.062PL01-2.

The materials to be used in the construction of the external surfaces of the proposed development hereby permitted shall match those used in the existing building.

The site visit was undertaken by a representative of the Inspector whose recommendation is set out below and to which the Inspector has had regard before deciding the appeal scheme. The main issue in which is its effect on the character and appearance of the area.

The appeal property is an end-of-terrace dwelling located within a block of five similar properties. The terrace is positioned within a mixed residential area where dwellings vary in design and scale. The dwelling itself has an L-shaped footprint and appears to have been previously extended with a flat-roofed single-storey extension to the rear, a feature that is consistent with other properties in this terrace block, and a conservatory to the side. The property benefits from a long rear garden and small strip to the side.

In comparison to the original ground floor footprint as shown on plan, the proposed extension would represent a substantial addition. That said, due to the single-storey nature of the proposal, together with the extent of existing built development, and its predominantly rearward siting, the size and scale would not be unduly prominent. The proposal would be largely screened from any public vantage point, and while of sizeable depth, the generous rear garden and end-of-terrace location would prevent it from appearing cramped or overdeveloped. Views from neighbouring properties would be limited and flat-roofed extensions are a common characteristic in the locality. It would therefore not appear incongruous.

As a result, the proposed development would not harm the character or appearance of the area. Accordingly, it would not conflict with Policy D3 of The London Plan, the Spatial Development Strategy for [name] (2021), Policies CDH01 and CDH05 of the Barnet Local Plan 2021-2026 (2025) or guidance contained in Residential Design Guidance Supplementary Planning Document (2016). Amongst other things, these seek to ensure new development contributes positively to its context drawing on local character, materials and rhythm of neighbouring plot and building widths, whilst optimising the capacity of sites.

In addition to the standard time period for commencement of the development, I have set out a condition requiring the development to accord with the approved plans for enforcement purposes. A condition requiring the use of materials matching that of the existing building is also necessary to ensure an appropriate appearance for the development. A condition limiting access to the roof would not be necessary since a separate permission would be required to use it as a balcony.

The appeal scheme would comply with the development plan for the reasons I have set out and there is nothing to suggest a decision other than in accordance therewith. I therefore recommend the appeal is allowed.

I have considered all the submitted evidence and my representative’s report and on that basis the appeal is allowed, and planning permission granted, subject to the conditions set out.