Case Study : Roof Extension and Terrace

BRIEF

We were asked to assist after a third attempt at a planning application for new floor space with roof terrace on a Victorian London townhouse was refused.

KEY ISSUES

Homeowner; Appraisal and Strategy; Planning Appeal; Specialist Reports; London.

LPA

London Borough of Camden

CHALLENGES

Camden Council had refused the application due to its "overbearing" nature, citing issues of overshadowing, privacy and outlook.

Since this was the third refusal on this scheme, and the extra space was desperately needed, we were approached to provide professional representation to take the latest refusal to the Planning Inspectorate for appeal.

SOLUTION

We built a case which focused on the poor methodology that Camden Council used to assess issues of overshadowing and outlook. We submitted our own independently assessed study which correctly followed BRE guidelines and British Standard 8206 – 2: 2008 – 'Lighting for Buildings – Part 2: Code of Practice for Daylighting'.

We provided a comprehensive built context assessment and analysis, identifying the minimal impact of the roof extension and terrace, looking specifically at building orientation, distances, massing, built pattern, and precedent.

To further add significant weight to our arguments, we highlighted the sustainable nature of the development; it provided a new, three bedroom flat in an excellent location and met the specific housing needs of the authority area; all important and material planning points and we won the appeal for our client.