A planning inspector appointed by the Secretary of State has thrown out an appeal by a developer to demolish a block of garages in Walcot and build a house on the site.
The outline planning application for the block at Bennetts Lane was initially refused by Bath & North East Somerset Council in May of last year.
Danforth Build West Ltd had submitted the plans in September 2023.
Council planners said the three garages were not listed and they had no objection to their demolition as they lack architectural or historic interest.
However, they said the proposed two-bedroom house would look out of place and harm nearby Grade II listed Dover Place, the character and appearance of the conservation area (CA), and the “special qualities” of Bath as a World Heritage Site (WHS).
The officers also said the applicant had not shown a suitable drainage strategy, nor that the development could avoid harm to trees.
In addition, they had concerns about the potential impact on wildlife and ecology.
Danforth Build West Ltd lodged an appeal last July, and it has now been dismissed although not for all the reasons the council gave.
The inspector said the garages’ low-key scale and appearance contribute to the sense of openness between Dover Place and Bennetts Lane.
“In conclusion, I have found that the proposal, subject to a suitable siting of the proposed dwelling, would not have an unacceptable impact on trees.
“It would also be capable of providing an adequate drainage strategy and on the basis that a condition could be used to ensure the submission of ecological surveys at reserved matters stage, it would not result in unacceptable harm to protected species.
“It would however result in harm to the character and appearance of the area, including the CA, and the significance and setting of the listed terrace and WHS.”
