Plans to turn a garage into a new home at the back of a town centre property in Burnham-On-Sea have sparked concerns from residents and councillors this week.
The owner of a garage to the rear of 35 College Street in Burnham has submitted a full planning application to extend it into a dwelling.
At a meeting of the Town Council’s Planning Applications Committee on Wednesday (January 30th), members heard from two residents in neighbouring properties who raised concerns about a potential loss of privacy, restricted road access, a lack of parking and a new 23ft wall reducing lights in gardens.
Cllr Peter Clatyon said: “I have sympathies for those residents who say it would result in a loss of privacy. It would have very restricted parking and it looks like an over-development to me.”
Cllr Martin Cox agreed, adding: “This would be an over-development that would set a precedent when space is already at a minimum.”
And Cllr Nick Tolley agreed: “It would be an over-development of the site that would also increase traffic problems.”
Cllr Louise Parkin said: “I echo those comments. Shearn Lane at the back of the property is a very narrow lane. How in god the developers will get there without causing great inconvenience is beyond me.”
Cllr John Parkes agreed, adding: “We have to be very careful to be consistent and not set a precedent.”
Cllr Andy Brewer said there was also an objection from the Methodist Church next door who say the window of the vestry would be affected if the plans go ahead.
Councillors agreed to object against the proposals on the basis of its being an over-development, affecting privacy, and setting a “dangerous precedent” for more development in Burnham town centre.
A final decision on the application – reference number 11/18/127 – will be taken by Sedgemoor District Council in the coming weeks. Comments can be made to Sedgemoor District Council’s Planning Department until February 5th.
