Plans to build a rooftop terrace at a Sefton house close to two historic buildings have divided opinion with some fearing it could have a 'detrimental effect' on its area.
The proposal, for a two storey extension with roof terrace at The Serpentine North in Blundellsands, has led to a petition opposing it with more than 30 signatures after a planning application was submitted to Sefton Council in June.
An earlier application had been refused by the council due to the size of the planned extension, which would have added an extra 109% to the footprint of the original building. An appeal has been lodged with the planning inspectorate against that refusal.
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According to a report produced ahead of a meeting of the council’s planning committee, due to be held at Bootle Town hall tomorrow (Wednesday 18), the latest application has a more modest extension involving a 57% increase in the building’s footprint.
As well as the 30 signature petition opposed to the plans, endorsed by local councillor Diane Roscoe, several local residents have also made their concerns known in comments sent to planning officers.
Some of the issues raised relate to the building's location close to two structures of historical interest.
102 The Serpentine North sits close to grade II listed St George’s fountain as well as nearby Blundellsands Hall, which was recently named as a non-designated heritage asset. The house also lies in the wider Blundellsands conservation area, leaving some local residents concerned the extension’s design and appearance could have a “detrimental effect” on the character of the area.
Other objections include fears about overlooking juliette balconies and concerns for trees and wildlife, including possible lizards living in the sand dunes nearby.
Around 10 letters were received in favour of the application, according to the planning officers report, with comments including support for the “investment and renovation of a tired home” the plans could provide.
Officers said that while the application was ongoing with Sefton Council, neighbouring 108 the Serpentine North sought to have its building Blundellsands Hall, listed as a non-designated heritage asset.
Although the owners were successful, meaning this must be considered now in relation to the application, officers said the extension is “not considered to give rise to adverse impacts.”
Councillors will meet to discuss the application tomorrow and decide whether to accept or reject the plans.
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