Bexley Council opposes planning permission changes (From News Shopper)
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Bexley Council opposes planning permission changes
12:04pm Monday 7th January 2013 in News By Sam Christie
CONTROVERSIAL changes which would allow homeowners to build extensions without planning permission have been opposed by Bexley Council.
Last year the Government unveiled proposals to relax planning laws in an attempt to boost growth in the construction sector.
Should the plans be approved, it would increase the maximum depth of single storey rear extensions to eight metres for detached houses and six metres for any other type of house.
In response to the consultation, Bexley Council strongly opposed the changes and said it usually restricts terraced or semi-detached properties to 3.5m in depth and 3.1m in height.
Cllr Linda Bailey, cabinet member for economic development and regeneration, said: "The consultation states that the planning application process adds little value in many cases. I don't accept that.
“The planning process adds very real value for those who would otherwise be adversely affected by unsuitable building works.”
Other concerns included the cost of mediating on neighbour disputes and the changes would limit the council’s ability to impose restrictive conditions, like preventing a flat roof being used as a balcony.
