‘Garden grab’ plans refused
PROPOSALS TO build two homes on a garden in Shelf have been rejected by planning councillors, with one describing the scheme as “a classic example of garden grabbing.”
Mrs Philippa Kermotschuk applied to build two detatched homes on part of a garden at Bridle Stile and Calderdale planning officers said they should be permitted.
But Planning Committee councillors were not convinced and agreed to reject the plans which they felt were too overbearing. Sixteen letters of objection were received over the plans, citing privacy, highways and drainage concerns.
Agent Roger Lee, for the applicant, did not believe concerns over the size of the homs, when compared with others nearby, were warranted.
“I don’t think it’s a development that is out of keeping. In terms of scale there’s not a lot of difference there,” he said.
He also rebutted claims a proposed septic tank would not be large enough to cater for the two properties.
But Coun David Kirton (Con, Hipperholme and Lightcliffe) said: “I just feel the development we have seen in front of us is completely overbearing and in my opinion is a classic example of garden grabbing.
“I can see one dwelling in there, not two.”
Coun Paul Bellenger (Lib Dem, Greetland and Stainland) said he was unconvinced the application should be allowed and proposed members go against officers’ recommendation and refuse permission instead.
“Personally, I feel it is overdevelopment,” he said.
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