Solihull Council planners have refused retrospective permission for an extensive extension at a Shirley home, citing concerns over excessive development raised by neighbours and councillors.
The property on Ufton Close had already undergone a large two-storey side and rear extension, a single-storey rear addition, a hip-to-gable loft conversion with rear dormer window, and construction of a single-storey flat-roof detached outbuilding. Despite council officers initially recommending approval, their assessment stating the additions were “acceptable in terms of size and design” and would not harm neighbouring properties, strong opposition emerged during consultation.
Fifteen formal objections were lodged, including by ward councillors Annette Mackenzie and council leader Karen Grinsell, who highlighted concerns about overdevelopment and the altered character of the street. At the planning committee meeting, residents’ representative Michael Bradley warned that allowing such extensive modifications would undermine the planning process. He noted the property had effectively become a six-bedroom home with an outbuilding comparable in size to a bungalow, raising worries about potential future uses.
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Ward councillor Mark Parker urged committee members to visit the site and consider the visual impact firsthand, describing the extension as stark and out of keeping with the neighbourhood. In response, applicant Salma Hussain explained the family’s pressing need for additional space to accommodate their four children, two of whom have severe learning disabilities. She emphasized that the new accessible bedroom and facilities, funded partly through a disabled facilities grant, aim to provide a safe and dignified environment for her family.
During committee debate, members expressed unease over the retrospective nature of the application. Councillor Sardul Marwa questioned why planning permission was not sought prior to commencing work. Chairman Bob Grinsell criticized the outbuilding as inappropriate and excessive, highlighting limited parking and the narrowness of the close. Councillor Dave Pinwell echoed concerns over the low visual quality, describing the work as a “pig’s breakfast.”
The committee voted seven to one, with one abstention, to refuse the application. Solihull Council plans to initiate enforcement action against the property owner. However, the applicant retains the option to appeal to the government’s planning inspectorate. The decision was made during the meeting held at the Civic Suite on December 15.