House extensions and new gates at 109 St. Bernards Road, Olton, Solihull

What officers recommended

Officers recommended approval because the extensions were considered visually acceptable, compatible with the conservation area and not unduly harmful to neighbours.

“This report will demonstrate that the proposed extensions to the dwelling are visually acceptable, will not be harmful to the character and appearance of the Conservation Area, and will not be unduly harmful to neighbouring amenity. Accordingly, given that all other material planning considerations are acceptable, the proposal is compliant with policies P8, P10, P11, P14, P15 and P16 of the Solihull Local Plan and the SPD House Extension Guide.”

Officer report

Objections received

Twenty objections raised concerns about character, original features, precedent, gates, works without permission and protected trees.

“Proposal is not sympathetic to the Arts and Craft character • Loss of original features • Fear of setting a precedent in the area • The proposed gates will create a fortress style • Works commenced without permission • Damage to TPO trees…”

Officer report

Who spoke

A speaker and a councillor spoke against the application, while another speaker supported it.

The committee decision

The committee granted conditional approval, amending conditions 4–7 to require information six weeks beforehand and revise wording for conditions 4 and 6.

“PL/2025/01400/MINFHO 109 ST. BERNARDS ROAD Conditional approval, as per the officer recommendation, with conditions 4-7 to incorporate the following amendments: (4-7) any information that necessitates Local Planning Authority approval shall be provided at least six weeks prior; and (4 and 6) ‘Notwithstanding submitted plans, before work commences.....”

“Informative – any trees subject of a Protection Order must be protected from damage when work is undertaken to instal/replace any fence/gates.”

Minutes