Issue - meetings

Construction of single-storey front extension and first floor rear extension, conversion of garage into habitable accommodation and internal alterations, alterations to fenestration and extension of driveway.

Recommendation: That planning permission be granted.

The application was for construction of a single storey front extension and first floor rear extension, conversion of garage into habitable accommodation and internal alterations, alterations to fenestration and extension of driveway at 69 Sycamore Road, Croxley Green, Rickmansworth.

The application was before the Committee as it had been called in by Croxley Green Parish Council if officers were minded to approve.

The Planning Officer advised that there was no update.

Parish Councillor Andrew Gallagher of Croxley Green Parish Council spoke against the application.

Kim Gardner, neighbour, spoke against the application.

Halit Ertas, agent, spoke in favour of the application.

The Committee noted a number of objections raised by the speakers against the application.  These included the character of the extensions; the impact of the front extension on the street scene; and concerns about impact on neighbouring amenity, particularly overshadowing of the garden and privacy concerns.

The Committee noted that the application site comprised one property within a terrace of three properties which were similar in style.  Whilst the proposal would involve change, for the reasons set out in the report officers were not of the view that the front extension would cause demonstrable harm to the character and appearance of the street scene.  With regard to the impact on neighbours, the front extension had a depth of 2m, and officers did not consider that it would cause harm to the neighbouring amenity.  The rear extension also complied with guidance and there was not considered to be any harm arising from the siting of any windows as part of the proposal.  Full considerations of these issues were set out in the officer’s report.

A Committee Member suggested that a site visit take place, in order to better understand the impact of the proposal on the street scene and neighbouring properties.   Another Committee Member questioned the need for a site visit given that the proposal was compliant with relevant policies.

Councillor Lloyd proposed, and Councillor Drury seconded, deferral of the application for a site visit.  On being put to the vote this proposal was agreed, the voting being 7 For, 2 Against, 1 Abstention.

RESOLVED: That the application is deferred for a site visit.