Local council unable to demolish unsightly bungalow extension thanks to Class AA permitted development rule.

In the quiet rural village of Shirrell Heath, Hampshire, a local bungalow has become the centre of a heated debate. The controversial extension, completed under permitted development rights (Class AA), has raised objections from local residents and councillors alike, due to its modern, urban style and stark contrast with the surrounding dwellings.

The extension, now standing at 18 metres tall, has increased the height of the original bungalow and transformed it into a two-story structure. Its materials, including white render and grey hanging walls, deviate significantly from the original brick and slate, a fact that J. M. Allman, a local, has pointed out in his objection.

Sandra Emery, another resident, claims the extension is 95% bigger than the original bungalow and is harmful to the rural character of the area due to its modern, grey coloring and fake slate. She, along with other locals, have expressed their displeasure, stating that the extension is out of character and not in keeping with the area's appearance.

Cllr Brian Laming echoes these sentiments, expressing his disagreement with the extension. He believes it is not in keeping with the area and does not blend in with the surrounding dwellings. Cllr Patrick Cunningham, however, while acknowledging the extension's difference from the original bungalow, considered it to blend in with other buildings in the neighborhood, comparing it to a barn at the end of the lane that quickly blends into the landscape.

Despite the protests, the extension was allowed to remain by Winchester City Council. The planning committee granted retrospective planning permission for the extension due to its distance from public spaces (21m) and unobtrusive windows to neighbors. Cllr Cunningham, however, would have refused permission for the extension if it were not obscured by other properties.

Cllr Jane Rutter, while acknowledging the extension's difference from the original bungalow, considered it to blend in with other buildings in the neighborhood. However, Cllr Cunningham found the extension to be a "dull, uninspiring, grey box" and regretted the use of white render and grey hanging walls instead of brick and slate. The extension has been described as an "eyesore" and "a dull, uninspiring, grey box."

Joy and Derek Morgan, local residents, sent letters of objection to the extension, stating it is obtrusive and out of character with the surrounding dwellings. Despite the controversy, the extension now stands out in its rural surroundings, a stark contrast to the surrounding dwellings.

Local council unable to demolish unsightly bungalow extension thanks to Class AA permitted development rule.