Objection to garage conversion

A COUPLE’S plans to convert a garage into a house have been described as “unneighbourly”.

Mark and Rachel Lane want to put a first floor extension on top of the garage at the house in Elizabeth Road to create a new dwelling.

The couple, who live in Western Road, say there is enough room for the  development.

A design and access statement by Binnacle Design, of Damer Gardens, Henley, says: “The proposal shows there is adequate open space for each of the dwellings in the rear garden, providing the necessary amenity space.

“The intention is to retain one medium-sized dwelling and to create one small dwelling, which we understand addresses concerns expressed by Henley Town Council recently regarding losing medium-sized family homes in Henley and places for people to downsize to due to over-extending.”



But the council’s planning committee has recommended that the application is refused.

Chairman David Nimmo Smith said the plot was “incredibly small” and Deputy Mayor Julian Brookes said the extension would be over-development and unneighbourly.

Councillor Simon Smith said he was opposed to the loss of a garage.

South Oxfordshire District Council, the planning authority, will make a decision by January 14.