PLANS to build a new house in a garden in Winnall have been approved by civic chiefs despite differing opinions.
Arculus Scott Residential Limited applied to the council for permission to build a new house in Baigent Close, as well as demolish an existing outbuilding on the development site and replace it with a new outbuilding.
The plans were approved by Winchester City Council’s planning committee on Wednesday, November 13.
The plans were objected to by Anthony Hill, of Baigent Close, who presented the committee with photographs demonstrating that the new building could cause overshadowing to the neighbouring properties.
Cllr John Tippett-Cooper also voiced an objection on behalf of his ward members, saying: “This is a new house in a small close in a relatively built area and a new, proposed building that would sit on the top of a hill, in addition to another outbuilding that looks to be built even higher. It is the sort of application that if it were proposed in a larger street full of detached homes would result in outcry and real concerns, but in a denser area like this I think their concerns should be even more acute.
“The suggestion that the overshadowing impact in the report will be limited is quite a subjective assessment and is much more extensive than suggested. Mr Hill has given evidence on how this building will overshadow and overlook numbers 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 Baigent Close, and that’s issues that probably aren’t fully addressed in the report for this matter.”
Jeremy Tyrell, the agent for the application, argued: “This application will provide a much-needed additional dwelling in a sustainable and affordable location. The new dwelling itself will be energy efficient, using a fabric-first approach and by virtue of being end of terrace it will improve the energy efficiency of the host dwelling.
“Your officer's report explains the considerations surround the amenity of the neighbouring properties. The levels of over-shadowing mentioned will be minimal and not unreasonable. The development is recommended for permission, and it is considered that it will be in keeping with character with the area”.
Cllr Jane Rutter said she was leaning in favour of approving the application. She said: “I went to see this myself yesterday and I do agree that parking is an issue there.
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“I think this is very tight, but it is a good location, it is a very similar house and it respects the character of the area”.
Cllr Angela Clear said she would not be supporting the application, saying: “I realise there is an additional condition in the update sheet and I am very concerned regarding access to the site, but I am also very concerned regarding the parking.
“There is a lack of designated parking and it doesn’t include any parking provision and that, to me, is still an issue. I know people need to be walking more but a lot of people do still like their cars in the present time”.
Cllr Patrick Cunningham also voiced his concerns with the application, saying: “We must be consistent with our policies and we must be seen to be consistent.”
The committee voted to approve the application, with four members voting in favour, two voting against, and two abstaining.
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