Upward extensions and windows at 1&3 Albert Close, Hackney, London E9

What was proposed

The application proposed an additional storey on both homes and replacement windows at No. 3.

“PROPOSAL: Construction of additional storey to Nos. 1 & 3 Albert Close and replacement of existing windows to No.3 Albert Close.”

Officer report

The site and surroundings

The site comprises adjoining two-storey homes in a mixed residential estate with buildings ranging from two to three storeys.

“SITE CONTEXT 1.1 The application sites are two adjoining two-storey terrace and end-of-terrace single dwelling houses. The host properties are of relatively modern construction and form part of a wider estate that is made of single, two storey and three storey buildings. The building lines and ridge heights of properties within the estate are mixed, with the design of properties differing slightly between different sections of the estate.”

“The surrounding area is predominantly residential in character. The site is not within a conservation area, and there are no listed buildings nearby.”

Officer report

Earlier planning history

A previous application for a single-storey rear extension and replacement windows at No. 1 was granted in 2019.

“2019/2943: Albert Close, Hackney, London, E9 7EX - Erection of a single storey ground floor rear extension and replacement of windows. Granted.”

Officer report

Officers’ recommendation

Officers recommended permission because the design fitted the estate and no significant effects on neighbouring amenity were expected.

“The additional storey and associated alterations are of an appropriate scale and design, and will preserve the character and appearance of the surrounding built context. No significant adverse impacts are anticipated in respect of neighbouring amenity.”

“On balance, and having regard to the objections received, the proposal is considered to comply with the relevant policies of the London Plan (2021) and Hackney Local Plan LP33 (2020). The granting of planning permission is therefore recommended, subject to conditions.”

Officer report

What people said

There were 15 objections and 12 supporting letters, covering privacy, sunlight, design, gardens, parking, overdevelopment and the need for family space.

“Disrupts the established stepped terrace typology. And roofline and massing differences Loss of sunlight to properties in Victoria Park Road Carbon offset contribution Inaccuracies in the BRE report Set precedent for the other other adjoining properties in the terrace No provision for additional parking Communal garden would be affected in terms of casting long shadows and creating a cramped, canyon-like feel. Overdevelopment…”

“Summary of letters of support: The planned renovation is in keeping with the style of our estate. Daylight assessment confirms there is no impact to my property The development represents an appropriate character of the Albert Close estate. I have first-hand experience of the need to create additional space to accommodate a growing family with a similar scheme. It is essential for buildings to have the flexibility to adapt to the evolving needs of families.”

Officer report

Who spoke

Cllr Penny Wrout and two other speakers objected, while two supporters spoke for the application.

Members’ discussion

Discussion covered the BRE assessment, communal garden impacts and whether gardens behind Victoria Park Road met BRE requirements.

“During the course of a discussion a number of points were raised including the following; • On a point of clarification regarding the Building Research Establishment (BRE) assessment, the BRE did not mandate assessment for spaces such as the communal garden area mentioned by concerned local resident. The assessment was more concerned with larger areas or back gardens. An assessment had…”

Minutes

The decision

The committee granted planning permission subject to conditions.

“To grant planning permission subject to conditions…”

Minutes

Conditions attached

Conditions required commencement within three years, compliance with approved plans, joint works, matching materials and four bird nesting boxes.

“- Commencement within three years The development hereby permitted must be begun not later than three years after the date of this permission.”

“8.1.5-Bird/Swift boxes The development hereby approved shall provide a minimum of 4 bird nesting boxes/bricks close to eaves level of the development. Details in the form of elevation plans and detailed specifications must be provided. The bricks/boxes shall be retained thereafter in perpetuity.”

Officer report