An extension in east Reading was begrudgingly approved by Reading Borough Council’s (RBC) planning committee, with several councillors expressing disappointment.
The development at 31 Windermere Road in Church ward will bring the property right up to the edge of its neighbours’ boundary.
Councillors Chris Maskell and Ruth McEwan opposed the development, while several other councillors expressed their disappointment at having to approve the plans.
Cllr Maskell said: “It always amazes me that we allow developers to go right up to the boundary.”
Councillor Karen Rowland added: “I feel very bad for the person who lives next door to someone that wishes to be as unneighbourly as this development is.
There’s really nothing we can do. Regretfully, I have to support the report.”
The application was approved by the Reading Borough Council (RBC) planning applications committee on November 7.
Residents opposed the application at the previous committee meeting on October 10, where a decision was deferred to view the property and what impact the extension would have.
Suzanna Lucas, neighbour at 29 Windermere Road, said: “I am committed to objecting to this proposed development by Adams Estate Agents.
“I feel the planning officer is biased in their favour and is clearly ignoring RBC guidelines regarding extensions in respect of gapping and terracing and I am dedicated to protecting the beautiful 1930’s spacious design and patterning in my road.”
Officers clarified at the latest committee meeting that the extension would not cross the boundary and therefore would not cause significant harm.
The neighbour would be able to do the same extension if they wished.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel