Sometimes, homeowners want to take a small, run-down house on a large site and really transform it through large-scale extensions. They have big dreams of substantially increasing the floor area and creating a completely modernised home.
The planners aren’t always keen on these kinds of proposals. All councils have guidance on house extensions and most say that extensions should be as small as possible, should not fundamentally change the original architectural design and character of the house, should not be too visible on the streetscene etc.
But it is not fair to rule out a complete reimagining of a house as long as the design is good and there is no harm to any neighbours.
In this case, our clients had big plans – they proposed single- and two-storey side and rear extensions, roof extensions, a porch and relocated front entrance door, a new vehicle access, and outbuilding to be used as a home gym and various other smaller changes.
The planners took fright – it was far too comprehensive a redevelopment for their tastes. The good news is that we appealed the decision and the government’s independent appeal inspector agreed with us that the extensions and alterations were well designed and would not cause any harm to the area.
It is important to read and understand the council’s supplementary planning guidance when it comes to extensions, but you do not have to follow it to the letter as long as your proposal is good quality and does not cause any harm.
If you have applied for larger home extensions and been refused, contact us for some help and advice.
