Two-storey home extension at Weir Lodge, 42 Commonside, Westwoodside

What was proposed

The application sought an additional storey, extensions, and a replacement garage attached to the side of the existing bungalow.

“ASSESSMENT Proposal Planning permission is sought to erect an additional storey onto an existing bungalow via extensions, including the demolition of the existing detached garage and the erection of a replacement garage attached to the south side of the dwelling. The additional storey would allow for the existing three bedrooms to be moved to the first floor, as well as three new bedrooms, two en-suite, a bathroom and a snug.”

Officer report

The officers’ recommendation

Officers recommended approval because the amended proposal would preserve local character, the listed building’s setting and neighbouring residential amenity.

“The amended scheme, which removed the originally proposed contemporary materials and now incorporates traditional red brick, would integrate appropriately within this established context. The site lies opposite an area covered by LC11 which protects areas of amenity importance and their open character.”

“The separation distance ensures compliance with the 30-degree test in the SPG, with no material loss of light as a result of the proposals. While four objections were initially received regarding scale, amended plans have addressed these concerns, resulting in three letters of support. The revised scale and design now better reflect the surrounding street scene and would not harm neighbouring residential amenity.”

Officer report

Consultation responses

Conservation officers ultimately raised no objection, Historic England had no comments, and the parish council had no objections but noted the proposal’s size and dominance.

“CONSULTATIONS HER Conservation: 10/02/2026: Initially raised concerns over the scale, massing, materials and style of the proposal and stated it would cause moderate harm to the setting of the adjacent listed building to the east. 10/03/2026: Following the submission of amended plans, considered the new materials help improve the proposal; however, concerns around the overall design and scale remained.”

“It should not impact the listed building; however, it will be a dominant feature and impact the character of the area and the LC11 (pond). Following re-consultation on the amended plans, have the same view and make no additional comments. PUBLICITY The proposal has been advertised by site notice, initially and following receipt of amended plans. A total of 9 comments have been received from neighbours in the area.”

Officer report

Neighbours’ views

Nine neighbour comments comprised three supporting and six objecting responses, with objections focusing on scale, character, dominance, privacy, overshadowing, light and drainage.

“The proposal would be excessive in scale and massing. • The design and overall form would be out of character with the area. • The proposal would disrupt the visual balance and cohesion of the street scene. • The scale and positioning may lead to overlooking, loss of privacy, overshadowing or loss of light affecting neighbouring properties.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The applicant supported the proposal, the ward member shared residents’ concerns, and councillors commented after the site visit.

The committee vote

Councillors moved and seconded approval in line with the officer’s report, and the motion was carried.

“It was then moved by Councillor C Ross and seconded by Councillor C Sherwood –”

“Resolved - That planning permission be granted in accordance with the recommendations contained within the Planning Officer’s report.”

Minutes