WINCHESTER planners have approved an application for a new dwelling in the city centre, despite local concerns.

The plan is to construct a new three-bed dwelling house facing Edgar Road, submitted by a 'Mr Sowden' of 10 St Cross Road.

However, concerns were brought to the planning committee about the impact on the local area, with 26 letters of objection submitted.

Concerns were also raised as the new building would overlooking neighbouring properties, including Du Boulay’s, a Winchester College boarding house.

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In the planning statement, it said: “In order to reduce any potential overlooking into the surrounding gardens from the terrace, it is proposed to install an opaque glass balustrade which will measure 2.1m above floor level on each side and 1.4m to the front of the terrace.”

Representing the local objectors was Robert Carter who lives next door at 12 St Cross Road.

Mr Carter said: “There are too many issues raised by objectors that planners have chosen to ignore. It's quite preposterous to claim that the problem over overlooking to the rear of the proposed site will be solved by putting up an opaque glass balcony. This will be 1.4m high. Any adult of average height can look over it. The planners haven't mentioned the rest of the elevation is covered with windows and balconies which would intrude on neighbour's privacy.

“The front of the building looks directly into the boys' dormitories at Du Boulay’s which contravenes the 2004 Children's Act which places a duty of care on local authorities. If the applicant cared about the local community, they wouldn't be doing this.”

Ward councillor Charles Radcliffe said: “Ultimately, the question should be whether the loss of privacy and other amenities, the risk of overdevelopment and the impact on the character of the street are of significant concern to justify withholding planning permission in this case.”

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The agent representing the applicant was unable to attend the meeting, so Jack Sowden gave supporting comments. He said: “The building is in place of two garages that have no use to the area. The development seeks to contribute to the streetscape and wider area. The proposed scheme looks to improve the site and be a high quality house for the local area.”

Cllr Michael Read asked the planning officer, Catherine Watson, about the problem of the building overlooking on neighbour's.

Ms Watson said: “The balcony won't be used all year round. I have assessed that the level of harm caused by overlooking would not be so significant to justify refusal of the application.”

Cllr Jane Rutter suggested adding swift boxes to the landscaping of the plan to improve bio-diversity.

Cllr Therese Evans, chair of the planning committee, said: “I can't see any material planning reason to refuse this application. I think it fits in with the street scene.”

The application was approved with five votes four, one against and two abstaining. An amendment was made to add the swift boxes.

 

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