Councillors have approved the conversion of a garden outbuilding in a Hampshire village, despite objections from neighbours. 

The scheme in Heath Road, Wickham, was recommended for permission by Winchester City Council planning officers. 

Kevin Lamport's application sparked an objection from Soberton Parish Council and nine members of the public.

However, the planning committee permitted the scheme on Wednesday, January 10. 

In the officers' report, it said: “The proposal seeks to convert the existing outbuilding into a residential annexe, ancillary to the host dwelling. The existing layout of the outbuilding is maintained by the proposal. 

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Hampshire Chronicle: Plan objectors

“The annexe provides a single bedroom with ensuite bathroom. A combined living, dining, and kitchen area is also provided. There are no external changes to the exterior of the building as built and this has been confirmed as compliant with permitted development criteria. The building can be accessed through a gate to the Northern side of the existing dwelling and parking provision remains as existing.

“The proposed conversion of the existing outbuilding into an ancillary residential annexe does not cause harm to the character and appearance of the surrounding area. The annexe does not constitute the creation of a new dwelling in the countryside and is in accordance with the development plan.”

Joseph McCarthy, of Heath Road, objected: “This will result in the loss of amenity for neighbours. The outbuilding is not close to the host dwelling. This is the size and scale of what could be considered a new house. This is not change of use, it's a retrospective planning application.”

The applicant's agent, Eric Cox, said: “The officers' report is thorough and fully examines the objectors' concerns. The officers have addressed all the matters that need to be satisfied. There are no material planning concerns.”

The committee's chairman, Cllr Jane Rutter, said: “It is an annexe to the house, so I'm sure the applicant will be considerate of the neighbours when using it. There are no planning reasons to turn this down.”

A condition was agreed which said the annexe would not be used as a holiday let or an Air B&B.

The application was permitted with seven votes for and two abstentions.