Garage-to-home conversion at 20 Chester Crescent, Lee-on-the-Solent

What was proposed

The application proposed converting a detached garage into a self-contained one-bedroom dwelling, with a garden and parking area.

“The wider application site relates to the curtilage of a substantial, detached two-storey dwellinghouse with accommodation in the roof located on the north side of Chester Crescent. This dwelling is set back from the back edge of the footway by some 24.9m and has a large landscaped area for off-road parking via a dropped kerb, enclosed by a boundary wall and gate some 1.5m high. At the front of the property is a detached garage which is the subject of this application.”

“It is proposed to convert the detached garage to a 1 bedroom dwelling. On the first floor, within the roof, would be a bedroom and ensuite. On the ground floor would be an open plan kitchen and living room with a utility. There would also be a study and a toilet. Externally, the garage door would be replaced with bi-fold doors. An 8.6m long garden is proposed to the east which would be enclosed with fencing. A parking area is proposed south of the garage.”

Officer report

Earlier applications

Earlier proposals for extensions, roof alterations and a replacement garage were refused or permitted, with one refusal later allowed on appeal.

“21/00607/FULL - erection of two storey side and rear extension and single storey side extension (after demolition of existing garage), erection of dormer extensions on rear and front roof slopes with front roof terrace and installation of windows on side roof slope - refused 31.01.22”

“21/00231/FULL - erection of part single and part two-storey side and rear extensions with cat slide roof on western roof slope (after demolition of existing garage and rear extensions), erection of dormer on front roof slope to include roof terrace, installation of 2no.”

Officer report

Consultation and public views

Consultees raised no objections subject to waste, habitat mitigation, fire safety and building regulation matters, and two letters supported the application.

“Hampshire Fire And Rescue Service No objection, subject to complying with fire safety regulations.”

“Building Control No objection, however, the internal layout may require alteration to comply with Building Regulation requirements for means of escape in the event of fire.”

Officer report

What the agent said

The agent said the site had an unusually large frontage, the proposal was unobtrusive, parking was adequate and there had been no objections.

The committee’s decision

The Board resolved to refuse the application.

“RESOLVED: That application 25/00052/FULL be refused.”

Minutes