Single dwelling into 2 flats

[awaitcall]

My friend has had his application rejected to convert single dwelling into 2 flats.

everything was going smoothly no objections, no issues, positive feedback until last minute the planning officer pulls out a paragraph from local core strategy guidance that this property is not within 250 metres from either town

reason for refusal:

The proposal would result in the subdivision of a terrace dwelling into two 2 bed apartments exacerbating the housing imbalance in the local housing market and would not be within, or within walking distance of the 2 Town Centres, nor is it in a canal side location. The proposal is therefore contrary to Policy H1 of the local Core Strategy and the National Planning Policy Framework."

have any of you gurus come across this and what prospects are there for a successful appeal

 

[^woody^]

No prospects if it's contrary to policy.

You'll need to prove that the proposal is not contrary, that the policy is flawed, or there are exceptional circumstances why it should be approved.

It's "flats" btw.

 

[Mottie]

I had exactly the same reasons for refusal from the London Borough of Newham when I wanted to build two one-bed flats on a piece of land we owned. Against policy as they want family homes. Been told I'd get permission for a 3-bed house so currently submitting that application. If it's against policy, it's against policy and there's not a lot you can do about it UNLESS you are a big concern and then if course, they'll let you build some one bedroom apartments as they are allowing Barratts to do just 400 yards away on the old West Ham football ground!

1. The proposed development fails to provide family sized housing for which the Local Authority has identified a shortage of and therefore prioritises over the provision of smaller units. The development is not considered to contribute to a stable, mixed and balanced community as it would further imbalance the housing stock compromising local need. The proposed development is therefore contrary to the National Planning Policy Framework (DCLG, March 2012), Policy 3.8 of The London Plan - The Spatial Development Strategy for London (GLA, consolidated with alterations since 2011 and published March 2016), Policies S1, S6 and H1 of The London Borough of Newham Local Plan: Core Strategy 2012 (Adopted January 2012), and Housing Supplementary Planning Guidance (GLA, March 2016).

 

[Sid1968]

Ok thanx

 

[John D v2.0]

Yes they give each area a score based on transport and amenities proximity and the dwellings density has to be based off that. So if you're above a station you'll be able to build a 10 storey block. Lobby for a bus stop first then you'll get permission

 

[chappers]

UNLESS you are a big concern and then if course, they'll let you build some one bedroom apartments as they are allowing Barratts to do just 400 yards away on the old West Ham football ground!

Large scale mixed development, different rules apply, different mix of property sizes required.