Extensions Allowed at Appeal in Westminster
Householder planning appeal success in Westminster for a rear extension in Maida Vale. I overturned refusal by addressing scale and conservation concerns, proving no harm to the area.
PLANNING APPEAL SUCCESSWESTMINSTERLONDON
Andrew Ransome
5/13/20262 min read
In 2014, I won a householder planning appeal against Westminster for a rear extension to a residential property in Maida Vale
The scheme proposed a modest extension designed to enhance internal living space while remaining proportionate to the host dwelling.
Located within the Maida Vale Conservation Area, the design needed to carefully balance additional accommodation with the architectural character of the building and its surroundings.
The objective was to deliver a functional improvement to the property without compromising its visual integrity or heritage context.
The Planning Issue
The application had been refused by Westminster City Council, who argued that the extension was not sufficiently subservient to the host dwelling and would harm both the building and the character of the conservation area.
Through the planning appeal, I challenged this position with a clear, evidence-led case.
A key argument was that the extension would not be visible from public viewpoints, with only very limited private views available. As such, any perceived impact on the conservation area was negligible.
I also demonstrated that the scale and design of the extension were proportionate and consistent with similar schemes previously approved by the Council, reinforcing the case for a balanced and consistent decision.
The Planning Inspector agreed with my position and allowed the appeal, confirming that the extension would not harm the character or appearance of the conservation area.
Planning Appeal Advice
If you have a development project and you have received a planning refusal, contact me for practical advice on whether an appeal is the right option and how to proceed.
Andrew Ransome MRTPI - Email: andrew@andrewransome.co.uk
About me
Andrew Ransome is a Planning Director and a Chartered Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), with more than two decades of experience in town planning.
He specialises in delivering strategic planning solutions for complex developments across both rural and urban environments, helping clients navigate planning challenges and unlock development opportunities. Connect with Andrew on Linkedin.
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