SD23A/0055
Subdivision of the existing 130sq.m house into 2 separate dwellings, reinstating the original 3 bedroom house at no.13 Whitechurch Hill with an internal area of 78sq.m and creating a new 2 bedroom dwelling no. 13A Whitechurch Hill which has a proposed internal area of 70sq.m; The proposal includes the demolition of an existing entrance porch and the construction of a 20.8sq.m, flat roofed extension on the ground floor, to the side and rear of the proposed house, no.13A Whitechurch Hill. The proposal also includes a new entrance door to the front of no. 13A; The existing brick and pebbledash finish on the external walls will be retained, while the extension will have a render finish to match the colour of the existing pebbledash; A shared entrance driveway will serve both properties and a low block wall will separate the 2 entrances; The application includes all proposed below ground services and all associated site works.
Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development constitutes over-development of a restricted site, providing substandard residential accommodation for the existing dwelling and creating a significant traffic hazard through the intensification of an inadequate vehicular access.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The subdivision would result in the original house (No. 13) falling significantly below minimum standards for gross floor area, internal storage, and bedroom sizes, thereby reducing its residential amenity.
- The intensification of the existing access point on a site with restricted frontage and insufficient turning area would create a traffic hazard for both motorists and pedestrians.
- While the principle of infill development is supported under the 'RES' zoning, the current proposal fails to integrate satisfactorily and does not justify the provision of substandard accommodation.