Energy-efficient home extension at Valdaine, The Hurst, Kingsley, Frodsham

What is proposed

The application proposes an extension, roof alterations, insulation, solar panels, garage conversion, external render and an air source heat pump.

“Description of development: Single storey flat roof extension with external timber cladding. Raising of pitched roof to dwelling to allow for additional insulation and integration of solar panels to front roof slope. External insulation and off-white render to existing elevations. Conversion of garage to habitable space with new front window to replace garage door. Installation of air source heat pump to rear.”

Officer report

The site

The site is a detached house within the settlement boundary, Green Belt and Conservation Area, beside Well Lane.

“The site comprises an existing two-storey detached dwelling. The property is sited at the northern end of The Hurst, on the corner with Well Lane to the west. The area around the site is characterised by dwellings of varying architectural forms.”

“The site is situated within the Kingsley identified settlement boundary, is within the Green Belt and is also within the Kingsley Conservation Area.”

Officer report

Earlier permissions

Earlier permissions covered a pitched roof to the detached garage and a two-storey house and garage.

“05-0179-FUL - Pitched roof to existing detached garage – Permission 2005”

“APP/2002/0480 - Two storey house and garage – Permission 2005”

Officer report

Officers’ recommendation

Officers recommended approval because the development would be acceptable overall, with environmental benefits and no unacceptable harm, subject to conditions.

“There would be some environmental benefits to the proposal through the additional insulation to the roof and elevations of the dwelling, along with the solar panels and air source heat pump. It is considered that the development would have no unacceptable impact on residential amenity, would not be inappropriate development in the Green Belt, and would result in no material harm to the Conservation Area.”

“Overall, having regard to the development plan as a whole and all material planning considerations, the proposal is considered to be acceptable subject to conditions. It is therefore recommended that the application be approved.”

Officer report

Design and environmental effects

The proposal would alter the property’s character but was considered compatible with surrounding buildings, while improving insulation and adding renewable energy measures.

“The proposal also includes adding further insulation to the pitched roof that comprises raising the roof by 100mm, reinstating the slate tiles and the installation of integrated solar panels to the front roof slope. Given the extent of the external insulation proposed, detailed section drawings should be secured by condition, along with details of materials.”

“In conclusion, the increase in roof height, reinstatement of the roof slates, solar panels and alterations to the garage are considered to be in keeping with the character and appearance of the original building.”

Officer report

Consultation and objections

The parish council had no objection subject to guidance and conservation requirements, and no neighbour representations were received.

“All consultation responses and representations received are available for members to view in full on the electronic case file via the Council’s website.”

“Kinglsey Parish Council: No objection, subject to the proposal meeting the provisions of the Supplementary Planning Document: House Extensions and Domestic Outbuildings SPD and agreements of the Conservation & Design Officer.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The applicant spoke to the committee, and ten members considered the application after one councillor left for the item.

Members’ question

Members asked whether the proposed rendering would fit the surrounding area, and officers said similar rendered properties already existed locally.

“Members queried if the proposed rendering would be in keeping with character of the surrounding area, officers advised there were already other properties with this style of rendering in the locality and so the application would not look out of place.”

Minutes

The vote

The proposal to approve the application with the report and late information conditions passed unanimously.

“A proposal to approve the application, subject to the conditions set out in the report and the late information report was passed unanimously.”

Minutes

Conditions attached

The conditions require timely commencement, compliance with amended plans, approved construction details and installation of the heat pump as agreed.

“Development must commence within 3 years. Development must be carried out in accordance with the amended plans. Prior to the commencement of development, details of the following must be submitted for approval: • proposed roof and eaves • render and external wall insulation • Window to be installed in the front elevation of the garage…”

“The air source heat pump shall be installed in accordance with the agreed details.”

Officer report