Side and rear extension at 17 Turnpike Road, Blunsdon, Swindon

What was proposed

The application proposed demolishing the attached garage and building a one-and-a-half-storey side and rear extension.

“Proposal: Demolition of existing garage, erection of one and half storey side/rear extension (proposed).”

Officer report

The site

The property is a large detached dwelling with an attached double garage, on a plot subdivided in 2016.

“The application property was initially a pair of semi-detached cottages, which were amalgamated into a single dwelling in the early 1920’s. The plot was originally larger but was subdivided in 2016 whereby the neighbouring dwelling, Maple Tree Cottage was added. At current the plot comprises a large, detached dwelling, with attached double garage.”

“The property is not subject to any special designations and is not within a Conservation Area, or within the setting of any listed buildings, or any other relevant area of special protection.”

Officer report

What people said

The parish council and three neighbours objected over possible overdevelopment, change of use, drainage, parking, design and residential amenity.

“- Overdevelopment of the Plot: The proposed extension represents a significant intensification of an already sizeable property. If approved, it would leave only a minimal garden area, reducing outdoor amenity space. - Suspected Change of Use: Prior to the submission of this application, residents approached the Chair of the Parish Council regarding the potential establishment of a childcare business at this location.”

“Third-Party Representations 6.2 3no objections were received from occupants of neighbouring dwellings, for (in summary) reasons of overdevelopment of the plot, suspected change of use, drainage, design and impact on local character, parking and amenity.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The agent, a parish councillor and two objectors made comments at the meeting.

The committee discussion

Supporters described design, drainage and foundation changes, while objectors raised possible future use, height, overdevelopment, light, drainage and tree concerns.

“The proposals include a flat roof in response to concerns that the development would be overbearing when compared with the neighbouring property. • Changes have been made to the proposals to allow more light to reach the neighbouring property. • The septic tank serving the development has been repaired recently and all drainage issues addressed.”

“There was concern that the development may allow a change of use from garage to residence at some stage. • The proposal includes development below ground level, which means that the development will be two storeys in height. • The local area has seen a significant number of developments consented in recent months and this proposal would only worsen the over-development of the area.”

Minutes

The vote

A proposal to grant permission was seconded and all members voted in favour.

“Councillor Gary Sumner proposed that planning permission be granted, subject to the conditions set out in the Case Officer’s report. Councillor Neil Hopkins seconded the proposal. All Members were in favour of the proposal.”

Minutes

The decision

Planning permission was granted subject to the conditions set out in the case officer’s report.

“Resolved – That planning permission be granted, subject to the conditions set out in the Case Officer’s report.”

Minutes