Construction of a 'granny annexe', erection of rear dormer roof extension granted by appeal

Development Type

Roof extension/ loft conversion
Outbuilding/ Outhouses
New Houses / Flats
Building Regulations

Borough

Dacorum

50A Leverstock Green Rd, Hemel Hempstead, HP3 8PR

Before

After

Development Type

Roof extension and granny-annexe outbuilding

Proposed Development

Construction of a single storey 'granny annexe' to the rear garden. Erection of rear dormer roof extension, three rooflights to the front and alterations to the height of the roof to facilitate a loft conversion.

4D Planning's role

4D Planning were instructed to obtain planning permission from Dacorum Council for a new-build outbuilding which will be used as a self-contained granny-annexe at the back garden of the dwelling. We produced the architectural drawings, planning statements and application documents. We submitted the application and liaised with the planning officer through the assessment period. The application was granted planning permission. We then were instructed to produce the building regulations for Building Control approval of the proposed works. The next project was to apply to raise the height of the roof of the main house, and to apply for planning permission for a rear dormer. Dacorum council were difficult and refused the application on the grounds of not wanting to allow raising the height of the house. We prepared a planning appeal and liaised with the Planning Inspectorate. The appeal was successful and planning permission was eventually granted for the new extended roof and loft conversion.

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Overcoming Challenges in Roof Extension Applications: A Successful Planning Appeal in Dacorum

Obtaining planning permission for a raised roof extension can present significant challenges, particularly due to concerns about its impact on the street scene and potential for setting a “negative” precedent. Councils may be cautious about approving such applications as they can disrupt the architectural harmony of the road. However, 4D Planning successfully navigated these challenges with a successful planning application in Dacorum that sought permission for a raised roof extension with a rear dormer and rooflights.
In this case, the house was located on a hill, and the increased roof height did not negatively affect the street’s character or the neighbouring properties’ amenity. Dacorum Council initially rejected the application for roof extension, citing concerns about visual impact and potential precedent. However, 4D Planning appealed the decision, taking the case to the Planning Inspectorate.
During the planning appeal, the Inspector conducted a thorough assessment and found that Dacorum Council had misjudged the situation. Given the unique topography of the area, where the property’s elevated position meant that the roof extension blended into the overall landscape, the Inspectorate determined that the proposal was not harmful to the character of the street. Consequently, the planning permission was granted on appeal.
This case highlights the importance of having professional planning consultants like 4D Planning to advocate for your project. Their understanding of local planning policies and ability to present compelling arguments during the appeal process can make all the difference in securing approval for challenging proposals. Whether dealing with applications for raised roofs, granny annexe or any other complex developments, their expertise ensures that all relevant factors are considered to achieve the best possible outcome.