Solihull Council has suffered its fourth planning appeal loss within weeks after a government inspector overturned its refusal of a loft conversion at a property in Castle Bromwich.
The Planning Inspectorate granted permission for a hip to gable loft conversion at a home in Woodford Avenue, reversing the council's decision from last November.
Background of the Application
Applicant Abbas Yusuf initially sought permission for the loft conversion in July 2025. The plans included roof lights to the front elevation, internal modifications on the first floor to access the loft, and a new window on the first floor side elevation.
During the public consultation, Castle Bromwich Parish Council objected, arguing that changing the symmetrical front elevation would negatively impact the streetscene. The objection stated: "This street solely contains semi-detached houses which are attractively planned and any changes to the skyline will be in contravention of planning policies which seek to retain the distinctiveness of the area."
Council's Refusal
Mark Andrews, Solihull Council's head of planning, design and engagement service, issued the refusal decision, stating: "The proposed development by reason of its bulk, scale, massing and design would not respect the character of the original dwelling resulting in a discordant structure that detracts from the visual amenity of the application property, unbalances the symmetry between the pair of semi-detached houses, and appears as an incongruous addition to the street scene."
Appeal Decision
Mr. Yusuf appealed to the Planning Inspectorate, and inspector Eleni Marshall conducted a site visit last month. In her decision, she overturned the council's refusal and granted permission subject to conditions.
The inspector wrote: "There is no evidence before me which would suggest the appeal site does not benefit from permitted development rights. I find that it is entirely plausible, and a realistic prospect, that the appellant would seek to pursue the alterations via or within the scope of permitted development and this is a factor which I give significant weight in the consideration of this appeal. On this basis I find this is sufficient to mean that the appeal should be allowed."
Pattern of Lost Appeals
This decision marks the fourth planning appeal lost by Solihull Council within weeks. Other recent successful appeals include an extension to a property in Shirley, another home extension in Knowle, and a new wall and gate at a property in Lovelace Avenue.
To view the full appeal decision on the Woodford Avenue property, search for application PL/2025/01372/MINFHO on the Solihull Council planning portal.
