Greenwich Council Refusal Overturned for Side and Rear Extension

We’re pleased to share a recent planning appeal victory where we successfully overturned a refusal issued by Greenwich Council for a two-storey side extension and a single-storey rear extension to a semi-detached home.

Our client first contacted us for a Free No Obligation Consultation, which took just 15 minutes to assess the viability of a planning appeal. After reviewing the refusal reasons, we confirmed the case had strong potential and took it out of the local authority’s hands by submitting a formal appeal to the Planning Inspectorate.
🔍 Refusal Reasons:

Greenwich Council originally refused the application on the basis that the proposed extensions would appear dominant, unsympathetic, and would unbalance the pair of semi-detached houses—creating a so-called “terracing effect”. The Council believed the proposal would cause harm to the character of both the property and the wider area.
🛠️ Our Strategy:

We prepared a 32-page, 7500-word appeal statement, demonstrating how the proposal:

Took design cues from nearby properties, including similar side extensions.

Complied with the Royal Borough of Greenwich Urban Design Guide SPD 2023.

Maintained appropriate setbacks, ridge heights, and subordinate proportions.

Preserved the rhythm of space between dwellings due to the area’s varied building forms.

Would have no negative impact on neighbour amenity or the local streetscape.

We also referenced relevant planning policies and successful appeal precedents, many of which we had personally won, strengthening the case further.
🏛️ Appeal Outcome:

An independent Planning Inspector visited the site on 23rd January, and by 5th February, the appeal was allowed in full. The Inspector concluded that:

The design was subordinate and coherent.

The extensions would not result in harmful terracing or imbalance.

The proposal would enhance rather than harm the local character.

📢 If You’ve Been Refused:

We know how frustrating and confusing the planning system can be. Many clients come to us after receiving a refusal with little or no explanation from the council.

If your planning application has been refused and you want a professional opinion, visit www.PlanningAppealsUK.com and request a Free No Obligation Consultation. We’re here to help.

Greenwich Council Refusal Overturned for Side and Rear Extension

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