A PROPOSAL to replace a Lower Earley garage with flats has been rejected after being described as awkward and alien to their surroundings.
Two flats were mooted for the site on Faygate Way, but Wokingham Borough Council planning officers felt the development would have been cramped, as well as being out of keeping with the rest of the street.
The building would have had a one-bedroom flat on the ground floor and a two-bedroom above it. There would have been four parking spaces.
In Wokingham Borough Council’s refusal statement, they wrote: “Ultimately the proposal would be an awkward and alien addition to the street scene in this prominent corner location which would conflict with the prevailing pattern of development in this estate.”
The application also faced opposition from neighbours, who argued the building would block sunlight, overlook surrounding homes and cause parking problems.
Jenny Vaughan, the owner of a neighbouring two-storey home in Faygate Way said: “Erection of a two-storey dwelling would significantly impact the amenities of the house I own, primarily the blocking of natural light to both house and garden, and the restriction of access to the private driveway.”
Earley Town Council’s planning committee also recommended refusal, saying it was inappropriate.
The application can be seen by searching for reference 230859 on Wokingham Borough Council’s planning website.
