New home more appropriate than extension - councillors

Objectors claim the proposed construction of a two storey extension to a house at Northland to accommodate a lift and bathroom facilities would result in unacceptable loss of light and disturbance to boundary walls.

While planning officers expressed their willingness to allow the application, councillors have requested further talks before making a final decision.

Alderman David Hilditch told Monday’s meeting of the Borough Council: “I am sympathetic to the needs, but there are concerns among neighbours.”

Alderman May Beattie, who said she had visited the site and been concerned about the potential impact on neighbours, added: “The man is in need, but maybe different accommodation would be more suitable.”

Cllr Jim Brown agreed: “There is potential for overshadowing. There is already a single storey development which causes overshadowing, so a double storey development further down the block would add to that.

“The Housing Executive has a responsibility to house people with disabilities; this is not a suitable alternative. They should be getting on the ball with regard to the provision of proper accommodation.”

A final decision on a proposed replacement dwelling at Knockagh Road, initially rejected by Planning Service, has been deferred to allow further discussion by the Planning sub committee.

Planners stated that there are “no overriding reasons” for a dwelling to be built at the location envisaged and that no “substantially intact” building currently exists at the site.

The rejection, on similar grounds, of a proposed replacement dwelling at Rawbrae Road was upheld, as was the refusal of permission for a two storey dwelling and garage at Upper Road, Greenisland, described as being out of keeping with its site and the surrounding area.