Oxford Road Residents Opposing Increase in Height of House

Say proposal is inappropriate for conservation area

Oxford Road development, artist's impression

Residents living in an Ealing conservation area are being urged to object to plans for a house extension, which, it's argued, is totally out of keeping for the area.

The planning application (ref 204010HH) was sent to Ealing Council in October, by Hackney based architects, Red and White on behalf of the householder.

If approved it would add another bedroom and another storey to the modern new build at 69 Oxford Road, which is just off The Grove in Ealing Town Centre.

The house replaced disused garages and the initial planning application was low rise.


Before the development. Picture: Google Streetview

Modern Single storey new build development by Red and White

The architects describe the new build as, ''Originally a neglected terrace of six garages the brick house appears as a single storey development with clerestory window and floating roof. Below ground at basement level sleeping accommodation is provided with courtyard amenity.''

Locals were shocked to find out about the application to expand and say it hasn't been widely publicised and fear such plans could get approval by stealth.

A local resident, who wishes to remain anonymous, told EalingToday.co.uk, '' Please help us stop further modern developments in our lovely quiet residential street. If this case is approved it will give the green light to many more further high storey developments in the quiet streets of Ealing and we risk losing our lovely neighbourhoods. This modern town house on 69 Oxford Road has submitted a planning application to Ealing Council to build a further storey on top of their existing building, despite the original application being for a single storey only."

The council placed the requisite notification on nearby lampposts but neighbours say this is insufficient and members of the Conservation area group created their own notice which has been posted locally.

The application has already received over 85 objections with many commenting that it is not a suitable development for the area, one said: 'The initial building was well designed and whilst not in keeping with the other buildings was sympathetic, not overlooking and non intrusive and within the original footprint and height of the previous buildings / garages. With the extension, the whole building is out of context. If this was the proposal was the original application, it would have met with considerable opposition.

Others have expressed concerns about it being the 'thin edge of the wedge'' which could see other properties in the area getting the go ahead for unsuitable extensions.

Local campaigners urge everyone to add their comments as soon as possible so Ealing Council planning officers can see the strength of feeling regarding this.

We have asked for comment from Ealing Council and architects, Red and White and will update.

Annemarie Flanagan

December 9 2020