Solihull's planning committee chairman has strongly criticised an applicant who built a home with significant alterations before obtaining planning permission. Councillor Bob Grinsell made the remarks during the committee meeting on June 17, where a retrospective application for changes to a property in Birch Tree Grove was discussed.
Background of the application
The applicant, Caroline Ownsworth, had previously secured permission in 2022 to demolish an existing home and construct a two-storey dwelling on the site. However, the committee was presented with a new application seeking approval for multiple modifications to the approved plans. Senior planning officer Matt Preece detailed the changes, which included a reduction in the height of the eaves, alterations to the depth of the dwelling and first floor, design changes, modifications to fenestration, and the addition of solar panels on the roof.
Neighbour objections and officer recommendation
During a public consultation, 20 objections were submitted by neighbours. Concerns raised included the new home being out of character with the area, overdevelopment, and the potential for further changes under permitted development rights. Despite these objections, planning officers recommended approval, subject to conditions that included the removal of these rights.
The chairman expressed disappointment that the applicant did not speak during the public section of the meeting. He stated: “I have been aware of this application for two years or maybe even longer. The applicant seems to have pushed all of the boundaries to the nth degree and done it in such a piecemeal fashion that it has elongated this process.”
Chairman's criticism and warning
Cllr Grinsell criticised the applicant for failing to consult with neighbours and noted that officers had been frustrated by the drawn-out process. He added: “I sincerely hope the applicant is listening that we as Solihull’s planning committee do not look kindly on this application - and other retrospective applications that come before us. If you are going to build something, get permission. Don’t build it before you have got the permission.”
He warned that any potential developer should heed this message: “If that carries through to any potential developer that will ease their burden as well as ours.”
Committee decision
Despite the criticism, councillors voted unanimously to approve the application, subject to conditions. The application, referenced as PL/2024/02216/VAR, can be viewed on Solihull Council's planning portal.
