COUNCILLORS have approved plans for a two-storey side extension to a property in Rainford despite objections raised over the proposals.

An application for the erection of a two-storey side extension to the site, on Heyes Grove, came before the planning committee on Tuesday, May 21.

As recommended, it was approved subject to conditions.

A report to the committee said the property is a detached dormer bungalow, which is set within a primarily residential area.

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It added: “Heyes Grove is a cul-de-sac accessed via Heyes Avenue and consists of 17 similarly designed detached dormer bungalows, three detached bungalows, and a two-storey detached dwelling.

“The property has had no previous extensions. The site is bordered on all sides by residential properties.”

The application was publicised by way of neighbour notification letters expiring on March 19, with 14 individual letters of objection and four letters of support received.

Furthermore, upon receipt of amended plans additional neighbour notification letters were sent out expiring on April 30, with six individual letters of objection and one letter of support received. The main points raised in these objections included it still being ‘out of character’ for the area, parking issues ‘not resolved’, and if allowed then others ‘would quickly follow’ and it ‘would become a row of terraces’ – but the main point raised in support is that the applicant ‘should be commended’ for making changes to the proposal.

Committee member Cllr Andy Bowden said he was happy to support the application and that it ‘meets all the planning guidance’.

He also stated that ‘everyone is entitled to take their view on an application’ – for it, or against it.

“It is their absolute right to make their views known and for us to decide on whether it meets the criteria and whether those objections are valid or relevant,” he added.