Homes in garden rejected

One objector claimed the density of the houses on the site showed that “the application is trying to make as much money as possible without considering the site’s context.”

Planners said the financial purpose of the proposal was not a material planning consideration. The housing scheme was refused as it would remove the garden of the house, which dates back to the 1860s.

The application failed to demonstrate that it would not harm biodiversity. It would have an overlooking and overbearing impact on neighbouring properties and it would remove numerous mature trees and tree groupings that are protected by a Tree Preservation Order.

A spokesperson for Huddersfield Civic Society commented: “This application was entirely misconceived. It looked like garden-grabbing and over-development at its most desperate without regard for planning process requirements, the environment, trees, neighbours, the listed building and the character of the Edgerton Conservation Area.

“Huddersfield Civic Society, the Yorkshire Gardens Trust, English Heritage, local businesses and residents and others objected on grounds that included a lack of competent documentation and many planning policies.

“The planning officer was left with no option other than to refuse it.”