Two roof terraces at Balham High Road, London SW12

“The applicant seeks planning permission for the formation of 2 x roof terraces above the four storey back additions, with 1.7m high obscure glazed screen to surround and the installation of 2 x associated access doors to the rear dormers of top floor Flats D and I.”

“The roof terraces would measure approximately 3.5 metres in depth and 2.7 metres in width, resulting in a total area of approximately 9.45 square metres. The terraces would be set back 1 metre from the rear elevation and 1 metre from the side eaves. To ensure privacy, the terrace would be enclosed with obscured glazing measuring 1.7 metres in height to both the side and rear.”

“SITE DETAILS: The application site consists of two, four-storey mid-terrace properties. No. 7 has a part two/part four-storey back addition and rear roof extension with commercial use at ground/basement level and flats on upper floors. No. 8 has a part two part four-storey back addition and a roof extension and has commercial use at ground floor with residential use above. Similar properties adjoin the application site.”

“Official Official noise, vibration, traffic congestion, air pollution, overshadowing, overbearing, unsatisfactory outlook, privacy or sunlight/daylight. The elevated nature of the terraces would allow increased opportunity for overlooking neighbouring properties, but with the obscure glazed screening conditioned to 1.7m high to sides and rear, the screen surrounding the terrace would mitigate against overlooking opportunities.”

“Officers’ note that the minimum required amenity space for a newly constructed two bedroom or less units is 10sq.m, so the size as proposed is in alignment with this policy aspiration. Taking this into account, it is considered that the proposal would not increase the potential for significant noise disturbance to the neighbours, to the extent that would warrant a refusal.”

“A fire statement has therefore been submitted for the minor residential development. It notes that the proposals are constructed in an appropriate way to minimise the risk of fire spread, there are suitable and convenient means of escape and there is suitable access and equipment for firefighting which is appropriate for the size and use of the development.”

“Official Official 3.4 Consequently, the proposal is considered to have adequately addressed fire safety at this initial planning and design stage. The proposal would therefore accord with policy D12 of the London Plan (2021). Conclusion 4.1 The design and scale of the proposal would provide an acceptable scheme, which would not harm the character or appearance of the surrounding area.”

“Objections have been submitted in relation to the proposed roof terrace at Flats 7D and 8I Station Parade Balham High Road . The concerns raised can be summarised as follows: • Loss of light and overshadowing Objectors expressed concern over the potential loss of daylight/sunlight to their windows, rooflights supplying their rooms. • Overlooking and loss of privacy…”

“Official Official Concerns that the roof terrace would directly overlook neighbouring properties, including gardens, bedrooms, and living areas. • Noise and disturbance The potential for increased noise and disturbance arising from use of the roof terrace with fears of large gatherings and general disruption. • Visual impact and loss of outlook The roof terraces and screening would be visually intrusive.”

“External Consultation Responses: summarised as: TfL - London Underground: No objection.”

“RESOLVED – (Unanimous) that planning permission be granted for the reasons set out in the report, noting the additional information as set out in the late items of correspondence paper.”

“Official Official Prior to commencement of use of the terrace as shown on drawing number 25:9077:08 REV A, the obscure glazed screening to each side and rear at a minimum height of 1.7m above finished floor level shall be installed. The screening shall be retained and maintained as such thereafter.”