Garden home appeal rejected

A homeowner's bid to build a new two-storey house and garage in the back garden of his Whetstone semi has been thrown out on appeal by a government planning inspector. 

The inspector, Mark Harrison, upheld the original refusal of the development by Blaby District Council, saying the scheme would harm the character of the area and provide poor living conditions for future occupants. 

The planning application from Ashley Kershaw, owner of the semi-detached, corner plot property in Victoria Road, was submitted to the Council in November last year. 

He sought to build a two-bed, two-storey house plus detached double garage in the large garden of his Edwardian semi, with a frontage out onto Charnwood Avenue. 

Planning officers refused the application, using delegated authority in January, saying the new build would be an over-development of the space, out of keeping with the rest of the neighbourhood and offer unacceptable amenities. 

Four months later, in May, Mr Kershaw appealed the decision to the government's planning inspectorate. 

Examining the pros and cons of the scheme, inspector Mr Harrison, said the benefit of adding one extra home in the area was outweighed by a number of negatives.  

He said the new house would disrupt the 'established rhythm of the street scene' and offer unacceptable amenities to any future occupants. 

Councillor Mike Shirley, Porfolio Holder for Planning, Strategic Growth and Environment, said: "We are pleased the government inspector has agreed with our planning officers and decided this development is unwelcome and unacceptable in this location.  

"If your home is set within considerable grounds, as many traditional properties are, it can be easy to think building new properties is a beneficial use of that 'spare' land. In some circumstances that can be the case. 

"However, this proposed new home would have appeared contrived and cramped in its surroundings. Even its design with obscurely glazed and non-opening first floor windows to prevent over-looking, point to obvious overcrowding. While we are aware of the need to build homes in the District, any development, however small or large, must be well-thought out and appropriate." 

Councillor Mike Shirley
Portfolio Holder for Planning, Strategic Growth and Environment