Single-storey side extension at 45 Bench Road, Fairfield, Buxton

“The application site relates to 45 Bench Road, a two-storey hipped roof semi-detached dwelling finished in render and located on the western side of Bench Road. The property sits directly opposite the Fairfield recreational ground and lies within the built-up area boundary of Buxton.”

“The property benefits from a modest rear garden, and existing flat roof side extension and an area of hardstanding capable of accommodating 1 vehicle.”

“The adopted High Peak Design Guide (2018) advises that extensions should appear subordinate to the host dwelling. The existing dwelling has a width of 6.7m, whilst the proposed extension would measure 4.1m in width. Although the proposal would increase the overall width of the dwelling by more than 50%, the scale of the extension is considered necessary in order to provide safe and functional living accommodation for a disabled occupant.”

“On balance, it is considered that the degree of harm arising from the scale and prominence of the extension within the street scene, and its relationship with the original dwelling, would be limited and would not significantly alter the character or appearance of the area. This harm is outweighed by the clear and demonstrable need to provide suitable accommodation to meet the requirements of a disabled occupier.”

“Initial comments Based on the appraisal of the development proposals the Highways Development Management Manager on behalf of the County Council, under Article 18 of the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order, 2015 recommends that the application is deferred pending additional information.”

“Revised Comments Further to previous LHA comments to this application, the application now proposes the provision of an additional parking space to the front of the dwelling. Whilst the parking provision of two spaces is below that required in DCC’s parking guidance for a four bedroomed dwelling and is not ideal, it is considered that the potential for additional roadside parking generated by the dwelling can be accommodated on Bench Road or roads within its vicinity without…”

“Site Notice Expired: 26 th February 2026 Neighbour Letters Expired: 09 th January 2026 Press Notice N/A”

“By the end of the consultation period, no neighbouring comments have been received.”

“The revised plans now include a hipped roof form, which despite its width, would ensure the extension compliments the hipped roof form of the host dwelling. The external materials proposed in the construction of the extension would match those of the existing dwellinghouse. Given that the extension would be located to the side of the property, it would be highly visible from Bench Road and would therefore have an impact on the street scene.”

“On balance, the proposal is considered acceptable in terms of design when considering the outlined circumstances. There would be limited harm to the character and appearance of the surrounding area and there would be no adverse impact on residential amenity or highway safety. It is therefore considered to be in accordance with the relevant policies put forward in the Local Plan and NPPF. Therefore, the application is recommended for approval.”

“Standard Time Limit 2. Development to be carried out accordance with approved plans 3. Materials to match the host dwelling…”

“That the application be approved as set out in the report; and…”

“That in the event of any changes being needed to the wording of the Committee’s decision (such as to delete, vary or add conditions/informatives/planning obligations or reasons for approval/refusal) prior to the decision being issued, the Head of Development Services be delegated authority to do so in consultation with the Chair of the Committee, provided that the changes do not exceed the substantive nature of the Committee’s decision.”