Plans to build a single-storey home behind 151 Prestbury Road in Cheltenham have been approved, despite concerns from residents that the property is being “squeezed into a garden.” Alex Bumpstead, the applicant, received permission from Cheltenham Borough Council’s planning committee following a meeting on June 19.
The decision came after a previous application for a two-storey dwelling was rejected. Taking planning officers’ advice, Mr. Bumpstead submitted a revised proposal featuring a smaller, single-storey home accompanied by boundary landscaping, which officers deemed acceptable.
Opponents of the project, represented by Lucy Smith, voiced objections regarding the short notice of the officer’s recommendation report, received less than five working days before the meeting. She argued this left insufficient time for meaningful response, especially for those balancing full-time work and family responsibilities.
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Smith also raised issues over the loss of wildlife habitat and described the development as an “overbearing” overuse of the site. She highlighted that the area was previously a private garden until trees were removed and construction machinery altered the land surface. She warned that approving this project could set a precedent for building on other gardens, potentially harming the character and infrastructure of neighborhoods.
Mr. Bumpstead countered by emphasizing that similar garden developments exist in the area and that the current scheme aligns with local planning policies. He noted collaboration with the planning team during pre-application stages led to significant changes, including height reduction and repositioning the dwelling further from neighboring boundaries. Additionally, the design was updated to complement nearby homes. The proposed development accounts for just over 20 percent of the plot.
During committee discussions, Councillor Simon Wheeler acknowledged potential impacts on neighbors but believed the single-storey design would avoid blocking views and stressed the importance of protecting existing silver birch trees. Councillor Adrian Bamford described the planning outcome as reasonable.
However, Councillor Barbara Clark opposed the application, expressing concerns over tree loss and describing the development as cramped, maximizing every bit of space. Ultimately, the committee voted to approve the scheme with eight in favor, two abstentions, and one against.