Single-storey sauna outbuilding at 21 Ark Royal Close, Hartlepool

“This application seeks retrospective planning permission for the erection of a single storey sauna outbuilding in the rear garden of 21 Ark Royal Close.”

“The submitted plans detail that the erected structure/outbuilding has a height of approximately 2.26 metres, and a maximum height of approximately 2.76 metres to the top of the chimney/flue. The structure measures approximately 3 metres in length x approximately 2.33 metres in width and is positioned towards the north west corner of the rear garden of the property, positioned on a southeast-northwest axis with the glazed access door in the front (south east) elevation.”

“The application site relates to a two-storey detached, South-facing residential property located in the Seaton Carew ward of Hartlepool. The property is bounded by No. Ark Royal Close to the West, and No. Ark Royal Close to the East. The property benefits from private rear amenity space to the North. Beyond this, Nos. 24 and 25 Ark Royal Close are present to the rear (north).”

“There is no known planning history relating to the application site.”

“For the reasons detailed in the report, the retrospective development of an outbuilding to serve a sauna is considered to be acceptable and is of a scale, design and appearance that is not harmful to the character of the host property and…”

“Smoke and Odour: The stove is enclosed and designed for domestic use, and only approved fuels (Duraflame logs) will be used, which are permitted for smoke-control areas. The external chimney is unlikely to cause nuisance to neighbouring properties under normal domestic use. Based on the submitted information and typical use, Environmental Protection considers that smoke and odour emissions are unlikely to cause nuisance to neighbouring properties.”

“Cleveland Fire: It appears that Cleveland Fire Brigade were not originally asked to consult on this application. During planning consultations Cleveland Fire Brigade only look to provide comment on Fire appliance access & Firefighting facilities with this specific application highlighting no concerns for either.”

“The application was advertised by way of neighbour letters. To date, there have been 3 letters of representation received, with 1 objection, 1 support and 1 indicating ‘do not object’.”

“The concerns/objection raised can be summarised as follows: • Size and scale of the outbuilding • Fire hazard • Health and safety breach…”

“The development hereby approved shall be in accordance with the following plans and details; Location Plan (at a scale of 1:1250) and supporting information including elevation plans (not to scale) date received by the Local Planning Authority 22/12/2025; and annotated photographs, date received by the Local Planning Authority 03/02/2026. To define the permission.”