Neighbours object to garage conversion

A FRESH attempt to convert the garage of a Peppard home has been opposed by neighbours.

Simon Bower wants to create ancillary accommodation at his property in Esther Carling Lane.

A previous attempt to convert the garage was refused by South Oxfordshire District Council last year.

The planning authority said the move would be equivalent to creating an independent unit and that “bricking-in” the garage doors would be out of keeping with the character and appearance of the area.

Mr Bower has now submitted a revised application, in which he argues that although the accommodation is detached it doesn’t constitute a separate dwelling.

He has also retained the existing garage doors and removed windows and skylights that would have been visible from the street.

Mr Bower said that all windows and skylights will only be visible from the main dwelling and will not detract from the existing street scene.

But Amanda Clements, who also lives in Esther Carling Lane, said the development would set a “dangerous” precedent.

She said: “This new application has only minor amendments concerning the placement of Velux windows and doors.

“It also fails to address the main objection that this application will represent a substantial change of use from a garage to living accommodation.”

Neighbour Janet King said: “I object to this application as it is an overdevelopment of a small site and would be out of keeping with the other garages nearby.

“It would also be visually intrusive to neighbouring properties and impact on the limited parking spaces in the area.”

Neighbour Pamela Brock said: “Such a development could set a precedent for further garage conversions on the estate, which would have implications for vehicle parking in the limited space available.”

Peppard Parish Council recommended the application is refused on the grounds privacy and that it would be “difficult” to use for ancillary purposes.

The district council will make a final decision by September 16.