My neighbour is building an extension to his house and he has
secured planning permission. The extension is now nearing
completion and, to my horror, it seems much larger and the roofline
is much higher than described on the original plans. I don't
think he has consent for this huge extension. What can I do?
The reason why obtaining planning permission is enshrined in law
when extending a building is that the local authority can decide
whether an extension will do any harm or adversely affect a
neighbourhood. The local authority use planning permission to
dictate to the developer/house owner what they can and cannot do so
that the development does not unfairly infringe on the
neighbourhood, but is built in keeping with the ambience and look
and feel of the area. It is granted with conditions the developer
must comply with so as not to disturb or upset the natural aspect
of the neighbourhood for the good and enjoyment of all people.