Single-storey rear extension at 55 Hillgate Place, Kensington, London W8

What was proposed

The application proposed a single-storey rear infill extension and an extension to the rear of the dwelling’s closet wing.

“/PP/25/04518:2 3.1 55 Hillgate Place is a single dwelling containing three storeys. The building is located within a terrace group of 22 buildings. Each house within this terrace group is painted a different pastel colour. 3.2The building is located within the Kensington Conservation Area 4.The proposal and any relevant planning history 4.1The proposal is for a single storey infill extension to rear of the dwelling house and an extension to the rear of the closet wing.”

Officer report

The main planning issues

The assessment considered conservation character, neighbouring living conditions and sustainable drainage, with drainage information required before construction.

“The application is supported by a RES in accordance with CD16 of the Local Plan. 6.3The decisive issues are: iWhether the proposed development would preserve or enhance the character and appearance of the building and wider conservation area; iiWhether the proposal would continue to ensure good living conditions of neighbouring occupiers; and iiiThe potential impact on sustainable drainage.”

“Sustainable drainage 6.10Policy GB12 of the Local Plan requires development to contribute towards a reduction in the rate and volume of surface water run-off into the combined sewer network through measures that promote multifunctional benefits. No Sustainable Drainage Strategy was submitted with the application to outline any efforts made to reduce runoff. The applicant will be required to submit this information to the Local Planning Authority before any works commence.”

Officer report

What people said

Thirty-four letters raised concerns including inaccurate drawings, overlooking, loss of light, enclosure, overdevelopment, conservation harm and garden encroachment.

“/PP/25/04518:5 7.112 nearby owners/occupiers were notified directly of the application. The application was advertised in the Gazette on 01/08/2025. A statutory notice advertising the application was posted near the site on 01/08/2025. 8.34 letters were receivedobjecting to the application, summarised as: CommentResponse 1 Objector raised concerns regarding: ·Misleading and inaccurate Drawings and Photographs. ·False Representation of Roof & Rear of 55 Hillgate place to No.”

“/PP/25/04518:6 existing level. Existing plans show an existing infill extension. The proposed plans suggest the use of slate tiles to match existing. However, none of the rear extensions in Hillgate Place have ever used slate tiles for infills. All rear extensions have used London bricks and the roofs are entirely flat (not sloping). Objects to the removal of the L shape rear garden that is typical for the area. Extension exceed the general rear building line.”

Officer report

Who spoke

An objector addressed the committee against the application, and members were told about additional objections including one from a councillor.

The committee vote

The committee voted by majority not to adopt the officer recommendation, with one councillor abstaining.

“Resolved by majority (with Cllr Areti abstaining): to not adopt the officer recommendation to approve planning permission.”

Minutes