Luxury Home Plans Face Final Hurdle in Solihull Village
A final decision on a proposed five-bedroom luxury house in the Solihull village of Dorridge is expected this week, bringing a contentious planning application to a head. The scheme, which seeks to replace an existing property on Woodchester Road with a larger, detached home featuring five bedrooms, a double garage, and a cinema, has been met with significant local opposition.
Neighbour Objections and Committee Scrutiny
The application, submitted by Mr Callinan, originally went before Solihull Council’s planning committee last month. However, councillors deferred their verdict, stating they needed to conduct a site visit to properly assess the property, which they described as a “building site.”
During a public consultation held in the summer, the authority was flooded with objections from neighbours. At the meeting, neighbour Dr Peter Scott voiced the concerns of many, stating: “As neighbours we recognise the need for suitable redevelopment of this site, which is in need of regeneration. Our concern is this proposal is simply too big and is in fact a three-storey house. The proposed design is out of character with other house styles in the road.”
Applicant's Defence and Amended Plans
In defence of the project, planning agent Neil Boddison argued that the existing 1950s dwelling is “architecturally unremarkable” and no longer meets modern family expectations. He stated, “Many property owners along Woodchester Road have modernised their homes in recent years. We believe this proposal represents a proportionate redevelopment, wholly in keeping with the character of the area.”
Ahead of the final decision, the applicant has submitted slightly amended plans. These changes involve repositioning the proposed new home 30cm further forward and reducing the size of the rear patio area.
Officer Recommendation and Final Decision
Despite the objections, council planning officers continue to recommend the scheme for approval, subject to conditions. In their report, they wrote: “The proposal is deemed acceptable and no material harm has been identified that outweighs the benefits of the scheme.”
The final decision is set to be made when the scheme goes before the planning committee’s next session on Wednesday, November 12. The meeting, which is open to the public, will be held at the Civic Suite from 6pm and will also be available to watch live on the council’s website. The application can be viewed on the authority’s website by searching for application PL/2025/00789/PPFL.
