BCP Council (Bournemouth area): Neil McKeon has recently won an appeal against BCP Council and secured planning permission for garage alterations serving an apartment building on West Cliff Road.
The applicant approached Pure Town Planning following the refusal of an application to improve the accessibility of a large garage by replacing two doors with a single door. The proposal appeared to be straightforward, but the LPA refused the application on grounds it would result in an inappropriate alteration which would be out of keeping with the character and appearance of the area, whilst also negatively impacting the West Overcliff Drive Conservation Area.
Having assessed the proposal and the LPA’s objection, Neil advised the applicant that the decision should be challenged at appeal. A robust appeal statement was prepared which rebutted the reasons for refusal, with particular focus on the perceived conservation area impacts – given that the application site itself was adjacent to, but not within said conservation area.
The appeal decision confirmed that the existing garage block was already inconsistent with a variety of design changes and so the proposal would not detract from the character of the site. The Inspector’s decision acknowledged the improvements made to the garage to provide enhanced accessibility, whilst avoiding any harm to the adjacent conservation area by way of any form for visual impact. The LPA’s decision was subsequently overturned and the appeal was allowed – thereby allowing the applicant to fully utilise the garage with improved accessibility for the future.
While frustrating to the applicant to take it to appeal, it does show that such decisions can be successfully challenged in order to get the right outcome. If you have recently been refused planning permission and would like to discuss the possibility of appeal, then why not call Pure Town Planning on 01202 585524 or email info@puretownplanning.co.uk to see how we can help you.