Plan thrown out over 'terracing' fears (From Oxford Mail)

Plan thrown out over 'terracing' fears

2:10pm Monday 15th October 2012 in News

COUNCILLORS concerned about “terracing” in a city street have thrown out a home extension bid on its second attempt.

The application to extend 37 Meadow Prospect, Wolvercote, right up its land boundary was refused by the city council’s west area planning permission on the grounds the bulk and scale of the proposed extension was disproportionate to the existing house.

The plans were submitted by the new owners of the home, who wanted more living space, including a bigger kitchen.

Architect Neil Warner, speaking on behalf of the applicant, said: “We’re confident the proposed extension will not be harmful to the street scene.”

But councillors said the amended plans submitted after permission for a previous application was refused earlier this year didn’t go far enough to address their concerns.

Lib Dem John Goddard, who represents Wolvercote, said: “I regret that other homes in this street have been extended, but I have regularly taken the view that one mistake shouldn’t justify another. I don’t like the application because it does seem to me to be increasing terracing in the area and I feel it’s still out of character.”

Labour’s Colin Cook said: “I think this is an improvement, and I feel our chances of winning this if they appeal would be slim.”