CHANGES to an approved ten-property development have prompted fears about an ‘unacceptable loss of privacy’.
Carrington Homes Ltd is seeking approval to alter a feature of an agreed planning application for Wellington Avenue in Princes Risborough.
It entails switching a previously approved rooflight on the rear of one unit serving a bedroom, with a small dormer window.
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Earlier plans “involved more extensive alterations” – however the dormer window is the ‘only addition’, according to council documents.
Outline permission for the demolition of two existing bungalows at the site in favour of nine two-bedroom apartments and a single two-bed bungalow with new access was approved in 2018.
A subsequent application relating to “appearance, scale and landscaping” was granted later that year.
This application seeks to amend the latter.
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Cllrs Alan Turner and David Knights initially raised concerns. The former called in the matter for committee scrutiny.
“The addition of…dormer windows on the rear elevation will produce an unacceptable level of overlooking into neighbouring properties to the rear of the development,” said Cllr Turner.
He added: “I also confirm that I wish to speak on this application at committee as ward councillor.”
His claim is contested by council officers: “It is considered that the dormer window would not give rise to any significant overlooking to the private amenity space of the dwellings to the rear above that of the previously approved rooflight.”
The matter is due for debate during a West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee, on Tuesday, February 2.
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