In the more expensive areas of central London, where space is at a premium, it has become fashionable for developers to extend into the basements of residential property. Local authorities are starting to become concerned about the this practice and in a recent high profile case refused planning consent on a townhouse in Kensington.
When the owner took the case to the High Court the judge refused to quash the new planning policy and supported the decision of Kensington and Chelsea Council. The property could not be extended with a controversial, two-storey mega basement.
A strange outcome of this is that the property now looks like a seaside beach hut as the owner has painted it in candy stripes. It is claimed that this is meant as revenge on neighbours who had objected to plans to develop the property.
Contact RR Paice for advice on party-wall issues and residential property.
