A RETROSPECTIVE application for outbuilding works has been approved despite neighbour concerns over intrusion.
The application was submitted Worcester City Council for a replacement workshop, store, and pergola at a residential property at 31 Corfe Avenue.
It sought permission for a timber outbuilding with a mono-pitched roof and an adjoining pergola, both of which had already been constructed.
The workshop replaces a smaller outbuilding previously on the site and is finished in horizontal timber cladding with a single-ply rubber roof.
During the consultation process, one neighbouring resident raised strong objections, arguing that the new structure was significantly larger and more visually intrusive than the original shed.
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The occupant of 33 Corfe Avenue, said: “The structure that has been constructed is materially larger, taller and more visually prominent than the previous shed that occupied the site.
“In my view, it is by no means a like-for-like replacement of the former shed and should be assessed on its own planning merits rather than simply being described as a ‘replacement’ structure.”
Concerns were also raised about the building’s proximity to the boundary, its impact on outlook and amenity, and potential fire safety risks due to its timber construction and nearby electrical supply.
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The neighbour said: “The scale, height, length and massing of the structure make it highly overbearing when viewed from my property and garden.
“I respectfully request that the retrospective planning application be refused.”
Despite these concerns, the council’s planning officer concluded that the development was acceptable in terms of design, scale, and impact on neighbouring properties.
In the officer’s report, it was noted that while the workshop is larger than the previous structure, it remains subordinate to the main dwelling and is not considered excessively overbearing.
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The report stated: “The scale of the workshop is not considered so excessive as to result in an unacceptable overbearing impact, loss of outlook or sense of enclosure.”
The council’s tree officer also raised no objection, noting that the development was unlikely to cause additional harm to a neighbouring cherry tree.
As a condition of approval, the front elevation of the workshop must be stained dark brown to reduce its visual impact and help it blend more effectively with its surroundings.