Extensions on Small Cottages

Extensions on Small Cottages

A small cottage is defined as a terraced or end of terrace dwelling, which is either 7 metres, or less in width or is built up to both the side boundaries. This would cover both early Garden City Cottages and more modern dwellings.

The policy advises additions should normally only be at the rear ground floor level. The depth of this extension should not exceed 3 metres, when a neighbouring property has a clear glazed window within one metre of the extension, or 3.65 metres in other cases. Where the garden depth is 12 metres or less, at least 8 metres of garden should be retained. The extension should not detract from the character of the dwelling by reason of its design, size, scale or siting. There are some exceptional circumstances whereby a two-storey extension may be acceptable. These are as follows: -

Two storey side extensions which are of an acceptable design and do not result in a loss of car parking behind the front building line.

A two-storey rear extension may be permitted where:

• The design of the extension and in particular the roof, integrating with the parent dwelling does not give rise to a prominent form of development, have a detrimental impact on the group of dwellings or result in the loss of any intrinsic features;
• The design should generally avoid flat roofs and incorporate careful eaves ridgeline detailing to match the original house
• The proposal will not give rise to a significant overshadowing of neighbouring properties. (e.g. the neighbouring property has an existing single storey rear extension and the closest first floor windows are obscure glazed); and
• Adequate car parking is provided to serve the dwelling, following the extension.

As a general guide, if the above criteria are met, the first floor extension should not be deeper than 1.5 metres.