Home extensions and reconfiguration at 3 Beech Avenue, Wivenhoe, Colchester

What was proposed

The application proposed internal changes, extensions, a taller roof, open-plan living space, a porch, a bedroom and a terrace.

“Description of the Proposal 5.1 The application seeks planning permission for Internal reconfiguration and extensions to the existing 1.5 storey dwelling.”

“The proposed development would increase the height of the existing 6.5m dwelling to an overall height of approximately 7.5m to the highest point. The proposed development includes an overall height extension to the host dwelling, extensions and internal alterations. The proposed extension at ground floor would provide an open plan living, kitchen, dining area and a single storey side porch entrance.”

Officer report

Earlier planning decision

Permission had previously been granted under delegated powers, but that decision was quashed because the application had to be decided by the committee.

“Procedural Matter 2.1 The application was previously determined under Delegated Authority and planning permission was granted. However, the Council's Constitution requires that applications submitted by Elected Members must be determined by the Planning Committee rather than under delegated powers. The decision was therefore issued in error and the Council took steps to quash the decision.”

“A Consent Order quashing the decision was issued by the Court on 17 th July 2026 and the previous planning decision no longer has effect.”

Officer report

Consultation responses

Environmental Protection raised no objection subject to conditions, while the town council and one neighbour raised concerns about height and loss of light.

“Environmental Protection: No objection subject to conditions to control the hours of work during demolition/construction and to secure the appropriate process should any unexpected contamination be found.”

“The consultation exercises have resulted in one neighbour objection. The objection concerns the following, “The planned increase of height to the original building will restrict the daylight to my property, that is already limited to the windows on that side of my house.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The planning officer presented the application, and the development manager answered members’ questions about height, daylight, privacy, parking and processing.

The vote

A proposal to accept the application as recommended was seconded and approved unanimously.

“To ensure full visibility moving forward, the planning department has updated its official report template to include a mandatory verification statement, requiring officers to explicitly double-check and document whether an applicant was an elected member or staff member. A proposal to accept the application as per the recommendation was seconded. RESOLVED (UNANIMOUSLY)that:the application for Planning Permission be approved as per Officer Recommendation.”

Minutes

The decision

Planning permission was approved in line with the officer recommendation, subject to conditions covering timing, approved details, materials, working hours, vegetation and contamination.

“APPROVAL of planning permission subject to the following conditions:”

“Unexpected Contamination In the event that historic land contamination is found at any time when carrying out works in relation to the development, it must be reported in writing immediately to the Local Planning Authority and all development shall cease immediately.”

Officer report