Plans to squeeze two homes on former garage site in Surrey branded 'unneighbourly'
A planning row brewing on a Surrey street shows how even the smallest developments can stir up big local feelings.
On paper, it’s a modest infill scheme but the plans have provoked controversy with residents claiming it “conflicts with the principles of good neighbourliness”.
Plans have been put forward to squeeze a pair of semi-detached homes into the site of two old garages at 116-118 Pavilion Gardens in Staines.
Demolishing the existing garages, the two new homes would be built on either side of the existing semi-detached properties.
But residents have attacked the proposals as an “eyesore” and an “overdevelopment”.
Over 30 letters of objection have been sent in with people complaining it will block light, exacerbate traffic problems near the school and could end up as short-term lets – not benefiting the community.
One resident said “the design conflicts with the principles of good neighbourliness” as the new homes will feature two windows in the side of the house, directly facing the next-door properties.
A contentious application, Councillor Daniel Geraci and Councillor Michele Gibson have called in the scheme due to their concerns about the density, layout, parking issues and room sizes.
Members of Spelthorne Borough Council will make the final call at a planning meeting on August 20.
According to officers, the new houses would be in keeping with the rest of the street, make efficient use of land, stay under two storeys and match the existing residential look.
Planning documents state the proposed homes have been designed to reflect the appearance of the street with off-street parking provided.
No objections have been made by Surrey Highways on road safety grounds.
But Spelthorne council cannot currently prove it has enough land for five years’ worth of new homes.
The shortfall means the balance is tipped in favour of building the homes unless the harm is deemed ‘significant’.