Stafford BC Planning - Garden Developments

Just wondered if anyone knows what Stafford BC's view is on garden development. One of our neighbours has decided that they would like to build a large house in their garden! We have been asked to comment on the plan. Didn't the government try and stop this sort of thing a few years ago ? I understand that gardens are now classed as greenfield. Would be grateful for any leads on this. Thanks

 

The planning laws are clear and you've been asked to comment as part of the planning process. You have the right to object if you wish and those objections will be considered by the Council before allowing the development to proceed.

 

Yes we have been asked to comment but I just wondered if anyone out there had a view on how the Council view such applications as gardens are now classed as greenfield.

 

An actual house, or a 'summer house'?

 

Large detached house!

 

If it has sufficient access, is in keeping with the area and doesn't overlook too much of your garden etc. then I'm afraid you may be out of luck. Depends on how friendly he is with the local planners really, but you have to remember that Stafford has a quota of new homes to be built so the council will likely look for easy ways to meet it.

 

That's what I am concerned about!

 

No, it doesn't depend on friendliness with planners. It depends on planning guidance, which was changed regarding the definition of gardens as brownfield land:
http://www.communities.gov.uk/statements/corporate/pps3statement

I would think a chat to a planning officer before putting an objection in might be worth while. I haven't checked out local planning policies (but they have to follow national ones) but either a look on Borough Council website or conversing with a planning officer may be worthwhile on that front too.

 

Very relieved to hear that!