Single-storey side extension at 16 Guessens Road, Welwyn Garden City

“This application seeks planning permission for the erection of a single storey side extension ‘garden room’ to the southern elevation of the building, this would join onto the approved rear extension to create a wraparound feature. The proposals also include additional planting and the replacement of an existing fence with a native hedge between the driveway garden.”

“The proposed side extension ‘winter garden’ is largely glazed with a dark metal frame and ‘floating’ roof. The proposal would measure approximately 3m wide, 6m deep and approximately 3m in height. The structure is set back from the front elevation by 4.6m.”

“16 Guessens Road is located on a prominent corner plot within Welwyn Garden City. The existing dwelling faces onto the road and has a vehicular access onto both Guessens Road and Guessens Walk. 1.2 16 Guessens Road is a detached two storey property on a sizable plot of land, which follows a strong linear pattern of well-spaced dwellings along Guessens Road. The dwelling is built in a traditional vernacular.”

“Permission was granted in July 2024 (6/2024/0957/HOUSE) for the erection of a part single, part double storey rear extension, replacement bay window, replacement garage and landscape works. These works are approximately 80% complete and therefore are shown as existing on the submitted plans. Various attempts have been made in the past to include a single storey side extension within the proposals, and this has been refused and twice dismissed at appeal.”

“Application number: 6/2024/0958/HOUSE Decision: Refused and dismissed at appeal Decision Date: July 2024 Proposal: Erection of single storey side, part single, part double storey rear extension and replacement garage. Insertion of rear rooflights. Replacement front door. Landscape and boundary treatment…”

“Overall, the proposed extension, by reason of its siting and contemporary design, would fail to relate well to the character and proportions of the existing locally important building, the surrounding context or the street scene. The proposed development would therefore fail to respect the character of the dwelling or preserve or enhance the character and appearance of the Welwyn Garden City Conservation Area.”

“Accordingly, the proposal fails to preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the Conservation Area. In this respect, the proposal is contrary to Policies SP15 and SADM15 of the Local Plan. The development also fails to comply with the conservation requirements of the NPPF and Section 72 of the Planning (Listed Building and Conservation Areas) Act 1990.”

“The application was advertised by means of neighbour notification letters a site notice and a press advertisement. Four representations have been received, each supporting the application. All representations received are published in full on the Council’s website and are summarised below:”

“This application follows several applications for extensions and alterations, two of which were dismissed at appeal and one that was approved (ref: 6/2024/0957/HOUSE). The approved scheme included a replacement bay window to the side (south) elevation but otherwise the extensions were contained to the rear. • The proposed extension would have a very contemporary design, with a dark metal frame, a large quantity of glazing and a deep, overhanging roof.”

“The following points were raised during the discussion: • Concern was raised by a member at the design of the extension which in their view would not be in keeping with the design principles of the original designers of the garden city. • A member praised the design commenting that the building retained the shape of the building and it was still possible to see the original style of the building. • A member questioned whether nearby properties had been similarly extended.”

“Resolved: (for 8, against 1, abstain 0) To approve planning permission subject to officers drafting necessary planning conditions.”