Planning Application Details

Due to its scale, flat and domed roof forms and oversized contemporary glazed units, when compared with the simple and low profile pitched roof forms and window openings across the existing cottage the extension would become the visually dominate element of the building and would therefore diminish the historic significance of the existing cottage which is afforded status as a non-designated heritage asset. Further, the loss of the existing front porches would begin to erode the visual understanding of the historic uses of the building. The extensions proposed would undermine the significance of the building by introducing an overly large and competing built form contrary to policies STRAT1, DES1, DES2, ENV1 and ENV6 of the South Oxfordshire Local Plan 2035 and and paragraph 209 of the NPPF which seek to protect heritage assets, the historic environment and rural landscapes across the district.

The site lies in close proximity to large areas of woodland and grassland. Given the characteristics of the surrounding area, there is likely a good local wildlife population of bats and given the age and condition of the existing property there is a possibility that the existing dwelling supports roosting bats. The proposed development would require extensive works to the existing roof. The application is not supported by any preliminary ecological surveys or Preliminary Roost Assessment (PRA). There is insufficient evidence to demonstrate that the proposed development would not result in harm to any protected species or their habitats country to policies ENV2 and ENV3 of the South Oxfordshire Local Plan and paragraphs 180 and 185 to 188 of the NPPF.

The proposal includes the provision of a small covered first floor balcony to the rear of the property and without adequate screening to the side this element would allow for overlooking into the neighbouring residential properties at either side contrary to policies DES6 and H20 of the South Oxfordshire Local Plan 2035.