A contentious project for an annexe has reluctantly been given the go-ahead despite fears it could be turned into a new home.
A controversial annexe project has been approved, sparking concerns it could become a new home.
The property at Culver Lane and Eascourt Avenue has seen significant changes, including tree removals and a gravel driveway installation.
The owner is now constructing a garage and a larger outbuilding for a playroom or gym, with a home office on the upper floor.
This contentious development was discussed at a Wokingham Borough Council planning meeting, where councillors expressed worries about the outbuilding potentially housing a bedroom.
Tim Marsh from the Whitegates Residents Association noted that a similar proposal had previously been rejected due to its height and mass.
He stated, "It was refused on the grounds of excessive height and massing, resulting in an incongruous and visually intrusive form of development."
Despite these concerns, planning officer Tariq Bailey-Biggs recommended approval, stipulating that the outbuilding must remain ancillary to the main house.
Brian Conlon, the council's operational lead development manager, warned that enforcement action would be taken if the outbuilding is transformed into a separate residence.
He explained, "If it’s let out to someone outside the family unit, a material change of use occurs."
Cllr Carol Jewell (Liberal Democrats, South Lake) highlighted challenges in planning enforcement, sharing concerns about proof of subletting issues.
She mentioned, "I was told if the family living at the end of the garden has meals in the main house, it’s fine; if they have their own kitchen, it isn’t."
The plan was approved on Wednesday, September 10. You can view the application by searching for reference 251346 on the council's planning portal.
James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter
