August 2024 Appeal success for JPPC – Householder extensions in Freeland, West Oxfordshire

Josh Sharp has had his first appeal success at JPPC. On appeal, planning permission has been granted for the construction of a part single-storey and part two-storey extension to a dwelling in Freeland in West Oxfordshire.

WODC had refused planning permission alleging that the proposed alterations were disproportionately large in comparison to the host dwelling, which had been extended previously, and so would be out of keeping with the prevailing character context as seen in the street scene.

However, JPPC argued that the proposed extensions, which would replace an existing disused domestic garage, would be in keeping with the varied scale and character aesthetic evident in the immediate vicinity.  In a short decision, the planning inspector agreed with JPPC’s interpretation of the relevant development plan policies, and development acceptability.  The inspector opined that while proposed extensions to the dwelling might be large, the affected dwelling was not in a heritage area or of any particular architectural merit, meaning that the council’s application of the guidance for the restriction of the increases in volume of the building through extensions was unduly strict.

As the proposal was found to be in accordance with the relevant planning policies planning permission was granted.