A former councillor has insisted there is 'no harm' in converting a garden outbuilding into a self-contained home, as planners in Walsall prepare to decide on the application next week.
Background of the application
The property at 255 Birmingham Road was already converted into five flats in 2019 after receiving permission. Now, a garden outbuilding has been turned into a separate dwelling, but planning officers have recommended refusal for the second time.
Last year, a similar application was rejected on grounds of causing significant harm to the area's character, amenity space, and cycle storage. The latest report states these issues have not been resolved.
Inconsistencies noted
The report highlights several inconsistencies, including whether the garage is single or double and whether amenity space for the new dwelling is shared with residents of the main building.
Access to the new home is via the quiet cul-de-sac of Brookhouse Road.
Former councillor's view
Former ward councillor Waheed Rasab disagreed with the refusal recommendation, bringing the application to the planning committee meeting on June 18. He stated the plans represent an opportunity to create new homes, cause no significant harm to amenities, and are similar to approved schemes elsewhere in Walsall.
