Appeal 6007702

The appeal is allowed and planning permission is granted for extensions and alterations to dwelling at [site address] in accordance with the terms of the application, Ref S26/0042 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 drawing nos SB-06, SB-07, SB-08 and SB-09.

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.

The main issue is the effect of the proposal upon the character and appearance of the area.

The appeal property is a large, detached dwelling situated amongst other residential properties. The design of the dwelling mirrors its neighbour, both of which are constructed in an L-shape design. Otherwise, there are a variety of housing designs and materials around the appeal site. Properties on the same side of the road as the dwelling are generally set back with front gardens. There are several examples of gables and dormers facing towards [site address] nearby.

The proposal would make alterations to the front of the dwelling. The design of the extensions would echo the distinctive form of the existing property by retaining the L-shape and would use matching materials and detailing on gable frontages. The scheme includes an additional gable end on the front of the dwelling and although the exact design is not seen within the area, gable frontages are a common feature, and they would not therefore negatively draw the eye. The alterations are relatively minor when taking the size of the dwelling and appeal site into account and there would still be ample space to the front of the property. There is no doubt that some symmetry between the appeal property and the neighbouring dwelling would be lost. However, combining the reasons above with the location of the site amongst a diverse range of property types, the proposal would not cause harm to the character and appearance of the area.

It would therefore comply with the requirements of Policy DE1 of the South Kesteven District Council Local Plan 2020 which is concerned with development making a positive contribution to local distinctiveness amongst other things.

Other than the time limit condition, it is necessary to ensure that the development is carried out in accordance with the approved plans for certainty. The plans also show matching materials to the existing dwelling. Therefore, there is no need for a further condition.

For the reasons given above, the appeal scheme would comply with the development plan and there is nothing compelling to suggest a decision other than in accordance. I therefore recommend that the appeal should be allowed.

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