UPVC sash-style window at 7 Lower Green, Wolverhampton

What was proposed

The application proposed replacing the remaining first-floor street-facing timber sash window with a UPVC sash-style window.

“Planning application no. 25/01290/FUL Site 7 Lower Green, Wolverhampton, WV6 9AH Proposal Installation of a UPVC sash style window to replace an existing first floor timber sash window…”

“Summary recommendation 1.1 Grant with conditions. Application site 2.1 The application site is a two-storey terraced house located in a residential area on Lower Green, within the Tettenhall Greens Conservation Area.”

Officer report

Earlier applications and appeal

An earlier application was refused, but an appeal allowed the two already-installed first-floor UPVC windows.

“Relevant Planning History 4.1 Application Ref: 23/00444/FUL – Retrospective application for two first-floor UPVC windows, replacement of the remaining first-floor timber window, and proposed replacement of the ground-floor bay timber windows with double-glazed UPVC windows on the front elevation. Decision: Refused on 10.11.2023.”

Officer report

The main planning issue

The main issue was whether the replacement window would preserve or enhance the conservation area’s character or appearance.

“Appraisal 9.1 The main issue is whether the development preserves or enhances the character or appearance of the Tettenhall Greens Conservation Area. Section 72(1) of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 requires special attention to be paid to the desirability of preserving or enhancing the character or appearance of the conservation area. Conservation Areas are designated heritage assets.”

“The current proposal seeks to replace the remaining timber sash window with a UPVC sash-style window matching the two previously approved windows. Given the recent appeal decision and the consistency in design and appearance, the proposal would preserve the character of the property and the Conservation Area. It complies with development plan policies aimed at conserving heritage assets.”

Officer report

What people objected to

One organisation objected to further UPVC windows, enforcement concerns and effects on the terrace’s appearance and conservation efforts.

“Publicity 6.1 One objection was received by the Lower Green Residents’ Association Tettenhall District Community Trust, summarised as follows: • Enforcement action should require [name withheld] to replace unlawful UPVC windows with timber frames. • Future appeals to be heard in person and grant Rule 6 status to the association. • Enforce Tettenhall Neighbourhood Plan policies (heritage protection, character, views).”

Officer report

Who spoke

A speaker addressed the committee in opposition, while the applicant addressed it in support.

What members discussed

Members discussed the window’s age and condition, its visibility from the footpath, and the possibility of a refusal being overturned.

“It was commented that replacement of the window was necessary due to its age and condition, although there was some deliberation on how easy it was to discern any visible difference to existing windows from the footpath. It was also noted that the decision may go against a precedent already set and be overturned if refused. Councillor Alan Butt moved the recommendations within the report and Councillor Gillian Wildman seconded the recommendations.”

Minutes

The committee’s decision

The committee granted permission subject to approved plans and details, and prior agreement of the window reveal details.

“Resolved: That planning application 25/01290/FUL be granted subject to conditions including: • The development to be carried in accordance with the approved plans and details. • Details of the window reveal shall be agreed prior to the installation.”

Minutes