Solihull Council has granted planning permission for a house extension on Widney Lane, despite concerns over surface water flooding, after adding a condition requiring a flood risk assessment before any development begins.
Extension Proposal and Concerns
Applicant Noreen Shaheen submitted plans for a single-storey side, rear, and front extension, a garage conversion, and a rear outbuilding for a gym at the property in Widney Lane in April. The proposal was called in by ward councillor Max McLoughlin for a decision at the authority’s planning committee meeting on June 17.
Councillors heard that the property had already undergone a loft extension and a single-storey extension under permitted development rights.
Flood Risk Debate
Councillor McLoughlin expressed concerns about surface water flooding, stating: “I understand the applicant's wish to improve their home, nothing I say is a criticism of them. My objection is, as the plans stand, they don’t account for surface level flooding impact on neighbouring amenity.”
He shared an image of the Environment Agency’s flood map for the area, showing orange zones where surface water is expected to flow and collect. “This proposal replaces soft ground with hard surfaces increasing runoff on land that already floods, yet there is no drainage strategy, no flood risk assessment. The extra run off has to go somewhere - neighbouring gardens and Cranmore Infant School behind,” he added.
Committee Decision
Committee chairman Councillor Bob Grinsell noted: “When you visit these sites you look at them front and back and don’t necessarily appreciate the ramifications. I’m going to be suggesting a condition be added for a flood assessment before any development taking place.”
Officer Mark Andrews, the authority's head of planning, design and engagement service, warned: “I completely note concerns. The risk is we have no objections, no comments provided from the lead local flooding authority so please be aware the applicant can choose to appeal to have that condition removed.”
Councillor Grinsell responded: “It is to the benefit of the applicant as well, to be quite frank. I can’t see why they should consider appealing against something that would be to their advantage, as well as their neighbours.”
The committee voted unanimously to approve the application subject to conditions, including the added condition for a flood risk assessment. The meeting was held at the Civic Suite on June 17.
