Extensions and balcony at The Old Rectory, Drayton Bassett, Tamworth

What was proposed

The application proposed a front extension, rear infill extension, conservatory and first-floor balcony with a flat roof.

“This application seeks planning permission for the erection of a single storey front extension, rear infill extension, conservatory and the installation of a first floor balcony with a flat roof above.”

“The proposals include the removal of the existing front porch structure and the demolition of the existing rear conservatory. To the front elevation, a first floor balcony is proposed between the two projecting gables, positioned above the main entrance.”

Officer report

The site and its setting

The Old Rectory is a detached home on a large corner plot within the Drayton Bassett Conservation Area.

“The application site relates to The Old Rectory, a detached residential property located on the corner of Salts Lane and Drayton Lane, Drayton Bassett. The dwelling occupies a large, well defined plot with generous private garden areas surrounding the property.”

“The site lies within the Drayton Bassett Conservation Area, which is characterised by a mix of historic buildings and more modern residential development set within a semi rural village context. The application property itself is not statutorily listed nor locally listed. The site also lies within the defined village settlement boundary for Drayton Basset as set out on the Local Plan Policies Maps.”

Officer report

Earlier planning history

A 1985 application for a residential care home for elderly people was approved.

“16.12.1985- L12098- Residential care home for the elderly- Approved.”

Officer report

What officers recommended

Officers recommended approval, considering the works acceptable in design terms and unlikely to harm the Conservation Area or neighbouring amenity.

“The proposed development comprises a single storey front extension, rear infill extension, conservatory and first floor balcony. The majority of the works are located to the side and rear and are considered to be subservient to the host dwelling. The site lies within a Conservation Area. However, the building is not statutorily or locally listed and has been subject to previous alterations.”

“Given the scale, siting and separation distances associated with the proposal, it is not considered that the development would result in any unacceptable impacts on the residential amenity of neighbouring occupiers in terms of loss of light, outlook, privacy or overbearing impact. The proposal is therefore considered to accord with the relevant provisions of the Local Plan and guidance within the Sustainable Design SPD.”

Officer report

What consultees said

The parish council objected, while highways, conservation and tree officers raised no objection, subject to specified details and protections.

“Drayton Bassett Parish Council - The council has discussed this application and resolved to object on two grounds: • The application is in a conservation area. The council do not believe the proposed changes are in keeping with the existing aesthetic in the conservation area. • The application documentation appears to refer to a separate property in parts of the application documentation.”

“Staffordshire County Council (Highways) – No Objections raised. (30/03/2026)”

Officer report

Who spoke

The applicant’s agent made representations before the committee considered the application.

The committee’s decision

The committee approved the application in line with the officer’s recommendations.

“26/00028/FUH - The Old Rectory Salts Lane Drayton Bassett:”

“RESOLVED: Approved in line with officer’s recommendations as set out in the report.”

Minutes

Approval conditions

The recommendation included conditions covering commencement, approved plans, external materials, balcony details and protection of retained trees.

“No development above slab level shall take place until details of the materials to be used in the construction of the external surfaces, including details of the windows (including design and finish) and the balcony (including materials and detailing), have been submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority. The development shall thereafter be carried out in accordance with the approved details.”

“Reason: To ensure a satisfactory appearance of the development and to preserve the character and appearance of the Conservation Area in accordance with Policies BE1 and CP14 of the Lichfield Local Plan Strategy, Policy BE2 of the Local Plan Allocations and the National Planning Policy Framework. 4. All retained trees shall be protected in accordance with the approved Tree Protection Plan.”

Officer report