Appeal against a refusal of planning permission for a change to the roof materials on a new house

Appeal Allowed (Full Planning Permission Granted) on 10 October 2024

Tonbridge & Malling

1A Croft Close,
Tonbridge,
Kent
TN10 4LA

Council: Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council

Our client had obtained planning permission for a new bungalow in Tonbridge & Malling and built it as planned, apart from some minor modifications to the design.

The main change was a switch from concrete roof tiles to a grey metal roof.

The Council’s refusal centered solely on the use of the metal roof, citing concerns about its impact on the character of the area.

We felt the council’s position to be stubborn and unreasonable. The area has a diverse character with mixed architectural styles, including traditional semi-detached homes and modern infill developments.

The immediate surroundings feature varied building materials and designs, with no consistent aesthetic.

While the metal roof is unique within Croft Close, other contemporary buildings in nearby streets had roofs with similar materials and colour.

The appeal inspector was happy with the roof, taking the view that its crisp, contemporary design positively contributed to the area.

The diverse architectural styles and materials within the area provided an appropriate context for the bungalow’s distinct appearance. The inspector noted that the street itself lacked uniformity, with an eclectic mix of homes of differing heights, materials, and setbacks.

The appeal was allowed, as the inspector concluded that the metal roof and overall design did not harm the character and appearance of the area.

This case highlights how architectural diversity and context can influence the assessment of modern developments in traditionally styled neighbourhoods.

Although council planners can be difficult when it comes to the choice of materials, we find that appeal inspectors show much more flexibility.

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