The Dulwich Estate

5. Extensions

All extensions are subject to approval under the Scheme of Management regardless of whether planning permission from the local authority is required or received:

The Scheme of Management requires that no material alteration is to be made to the external appearance of any building or structure on an enfranchised property and no new or additional building or structure is to be erected without the prior written approval of the Managers.

The Managers of the Scheme are the Incorporated Trustees of The Dulwich Estate and written approval or alterations is provided to applicants by way of a Licence.

Extensions permanently alter the appearance and character of a property. Normally, the Managers will expect the character of the property to be maintained. The quality of design and the impact on neighbouring properties and the streetscape will be carefully assessed when considering an application.

Rear Extensions

The size of the original property and the density of development are factors which will determine the appropriate size of an extension. Extensions should not be obtrusive to neighbours in terms of adversely impacting on their amenity. Generally, it is better to avoid building up to the boundary. Existing extensions will also be taken into consideration and there may be cases where no further extension can be approved. Where an existing extension has been built which is out of character with the property, a licence for further works may be conditional on removal of or alteration to this.

Side Extensions

Side extensions, particularly those visible from the street, may result in infilling between buildings, which can have an undesirable impact on the general streetscape and character of the Dulwich Estate. There is a general presumption on the part of the Managers not to permit extensions which would result in infilling. Extensions which would result in terracing will not normally be permitted. However, each case is considered upon its individual merits.

The following factors specific to an individual property are taken into account by the Managers when considering a licence application for a side extension:

1. Where spaces between buildings are a significant element in the composition of a group of buildings, the conservation of the group will generally take precedence over individual requirements;

2. Significant views between buildings from the street or neighbouring properties are to be retained;

3. Where a passage gives direct access from front to rear gardens, this passage is to be retained. The space between properties often contributes to the amenity of neighbours; easy access from front to rear avoids the need for bin and other storage space in the front garden;

4. The impact on the amenity of neighbours will be taken into account when considering applications for extensions.

Front Extensions

Extensions at the front of a property are unlikely to be approved. Proposals such as enclosing porches will change the original character of the property and thus are unlikely to be acceptable; each application will however, be considered on its merit.

Conversion of Garages

The conversion of garages for residential use may result in a loss of off street parking. In most cases, in order for the works to be approved, it will be necessary to demonstrate that at least two cars can be parked on the existing drive. It is the policy of the Managers to retain front gardens and not to permit these to be reduced to provide off street parking.

 

Please also refer to the General Guidance Notes For Freeholders Of Property Subject To The Scheme of Management Making Application For Building Or Tree Works.

March 2004

Documents

Download document in PDF format Extensions Guidance Notes (PDF 247kb)