Planning refused for 'overbearing' extension

The plans are for a two-storey extension and loft conversion on Hopwood Lane

Plans for a two-storey extension on a house in Halifax have been refused on the grounds it would be "overbearing".

Naser Khan applied to build the extension on the house on Hopwood Lane and convert the loft, adding dormer windows.

There had been one objection from a resident concerned over loss of daylight and that it would "overwhelm" the setting of the block of houses.

There was one letter of support, but Calderdale Council’s Planning Committee refused permission, saying it would have an "unacceptable impact on the street scene".

'Detract from the scene'

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the supporter felt it would bring more light to that part of the street.

Planning officers said: "The recommendation to refuse planning permission has been made because the proposed two-storey side extension if constructed would have an unacceptable impact on the street scene as well as the living conditions of a house on Hopwood Lane.

"The two proposed large front dormers would, because of their scale and design, relate poorly to the prominent front elevation of the dwelling and would detract from the appearance of the wider street scene."

Councillor Mohammed Shazad Fazal proposed councillors should go against planning officers’ recommendations and permit the plans, but his proposal was not seconded.

"There is a dire need for more accommodation in that particular area," he said.

Committee chair, Councillor Colin Hutchinson, said grounds for refusal were largely in terms of the design and the “overbearing” nature of it on neighbouring properties.

Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North or tell us a story you think we should be covering here.