Objecting to planning permission...

[Phantaxus]

I have just been made aware of an application to build a two storey dwelling and double garage behind my property. What grounds might I have to object?, What is going to be most effective? and if I do object will the planning department have to take notice.

[sft42]

If the ground hold outline planning permission and isn't on a green field site then unless the proposed stuctures are totally outwith the keeping of the nature of the surrounding buildings then your on a shaky peg here....your only ground of obvious objection might be a blockage of light (you have no rights to a view)....and yes the planning department Have to acknowledge that you have made an objection and review the case but they should be doing that anyway........as with all matters like this your best bet if your really opposed to it going ahead is get in touch with your solicitor.

[Mortartube]

If you can show that you have enjoyed uninterrupted light through a window (opposite the proposed structure), for a period of 20 years you can claim Ancient Lights. This may help. See here for more details. http://14.1911encyclopedia.org/A/AN/ANCIENT_LIGHTS
.htm

[gilf]

sft42 and Mortartube seem to be all doom and gloom. We had a similar situation we objected and it didnt go through. My Garden has a lack of light in general and this can be seen by the bog at the end which is due to lack of light, if the new structure were to reduce the light into your property you would have good grounds. And yes they have to take your objection into account.

[kriskwery]

As an ex-receptionist in a Planning Dept can I suggest that you (a) visit the local office and pick up literature which will advise on "material considerations"; (b) make an appointment to discuss the application with the case officer; and then (c) you'll be in a much better position to write a meaningful letter of objection. It is not worth employing a solicitor to do this for you - the letter would not carry any more weight than a "from the heart" gut-reaction one from you but learning a bit of planning jargon (like "loss of amenity"!) would help. The Planning Officer's job is to weigh up pros & cons and to be mindful of legislation and Local Plan policies when writing his/her report but they do not expect objectors to be instant Town & Country Planners. Best of luck.