Rear extension and dormers at Down Hill, Bishopstone, Swindon

What was proposed

The application proposed a first-floor rear extension, three pitched front dormers, partial roof demolition and specified tree works.

“Proposal: Erection of proposed first floor rear extension and replacement front pitched roof dormers. Partial demolition of the existing roof to facilitate the extension and dormers. Work to existing trees in rear garden as outlined in the tree works plan.”

“This application seeks full planning permission for the erection of a first-floor rear extension, the replacement of front flat roof dormer with 3no. pitched dormers and works to trees within the property. The first floor rear extension would consist of a double gabled projection from the rear slope of the existing roofline with no increase to the footprint of the property. The larger of the two gables would extend 6.4m from the existing ridgeline.”

Officer report

The site and surroundings

The detached dormer bungalow sits in Bishopstone Conservation Area, with a village pond opposite and open fields beyond its elevated rear garden.

“The application site consists of a detached dormer bungalow located in the village of Bishopstone. The dwelling sits on Oxon Place within a row of individually designed properties of varying ages and architectural styles and set back from the road. Directly opposite the property lies the village pond. To the rear, the garden is in a largely elevated position with regard to the host dwelling with open fields beyond the rear boundary.”

Officer report

Earlier planning history

Earlier permissions covered side and rear extensions, rear dormers and garage demolition, while a larger extension proposal was refused.

“Planning Permission T/92/0124 granted February April 1992. - Erection of side/rear extensions and rear dormer windows.”

“Planning Permission T/91/0699. Refused July 1991. - Demolition of existing garage erection of two storey side and rear extensions with integral balconies.”

Officer report

Consultation responses

The parish council did not object, the conservation officer supported the works, and no third-party representations were received.

“Bishopstone Parish Council do not object to the application.”

“Replacing the box dormer with three gable dormers and upgrading PVCu casements to timber-effect will enhance the property's appearance within the Conservation Area. • Proposed tree works are of a scale which does not negatively affect the Conservation Area. • The potential impact and harm to the setting of the neighbouring non-designated heritage asset (The Rails) is considered to be negligible.”

Officer report

Who spoke

No submissions were made at the meeting either supporting or opposing the application.

The committee vote

A proposal to grant permission was made, seconded and supported by all councillors.

“Councillor Jake Chandler 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 Councillors were in favour of the proposal.”

Minutes

The final decision

Planning permission was granted subject to the conditions set out for the approved development and tree works.

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

Minutes

Conditions attached

The permission required commencement within three years, compliance with approved plans and materials, and implementation of the specified tree works within two years.

“The development hereby permitted shall be constructed using external facing materials as outlined on the approved plans. Such facing materials shall be retained thereafter in their approved form. Reason: To ensure that the appearance of the development is satisfactory.”

“This council has NO OBJECTION to the following works being undertaken: • 3no. Mature Beech Trees; Crown reduction and removal of dead branches. • 2no. Coppiced Hazels; Remove whips. • 1no. Damson; Fell to ground level. The agreed works should be implemented within two years of the date of this permission and that only the works detailed above be implemented. Reason: To preserve the amenity of the conservation area. Informatives.”

Officer report