Building and Planning

My neighbour is building an extension and I want to stop him. What can I do about it?

My neighbour is building an extension and I want to stop him. What can I do about it?

Can only really object if the extension requires planning consent – if the extension is contained within Permitted Development Rights then you can’t object – if you think that it does require planning consent but you haven’t received a planning notice then you may need to consider reporting the work to the council – it is not unheard of for people to build extensions without obtaining planning consent.

 

Assuming than an application has been made anyone can object to planning applications - there are a few things that need to be considered - You have to have a valid objection that is based on planning laws – only these can be taken into account when considering an application – it’s not enough to simply state that you don’t want your neighbour to build it – would you be satisfied if some minor alterations were made e.g. to stop light being blocked or to prevent overlooking? If so, then discuss this with your neighbour, as it may be the easiest and most amicable way to resolve any issues.

 

If you are still unhappy you will need to read the application carefully to ensure that you fully understand the details and establish the relevant issues – then prepare a written statement to the council stating your concerns be based on the planning issues.  It should be sent within the 21 day consultation period to be sure that the council will consider it – remember that your neighbour will be able to see your comments so it is probably best if you let them know your areas of concern in advance so as to reduce any hostility that may arise.  You should also keep the tone of your objection cool and neutral. Inflammatory remarks may cause problems – remember that you have to live next door to them!

 

You can also attend the planning committee meeting where the decision is made – if you notify the council in advance then you should be able to address the meeting for a few minutes – make sure that you have a prepared statement so that you can make all the points that you want to get across – again must focus on the planning issues – the committee is likely to stop you speaking if you digress.

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