11 Burford Close Christchurch BH23 2QF

1. 1.By reason of its design, massing and proposed materials, the proposal would result in a visually intrusive and overbearing form of development that would have a poor built relationship to neighbouring properties. It would fail to make a positive contribution to the urban environment which and would be harmful to the character and appearance of the street scene. The scheme does not comply with the test in Policy HE2 to be compatible with or improve its surroundings in its architectural style; scale; bulk; height; materials and visual impact. As such the proposal is contrary to Policy HE2 of the Christchurch and East Dorset Local Plan, Part 1 Core Strategy 2014, Policy H12 of the Borough of Christchurch Local Plan 2001 and paragraph 139 of the National Planning Policy Framework (2024).
2. 2.The scheme, by reason of its design, height and proximity to the side boundaries result in an overbearing impact on the adjacent property at 11a Burford Close and cause a loss of light to this property, adversely impacting on occupier’s living conditions. The scheme fails to be compatible with or improves its surroundings in its relationship to nearby properties including minimising general disturbance to amenity. As such the proposal is considered contrary to Policy HE2 of the Christchurch and East Dorset Core Strategy adopted 2014 Policy H12 of the Borough of Christchurch Local Plan.
3. 3.The proposed works to the ground floor of the existing bungalow are considered as a matter of fact and degree to be so extensive, due to the extent of existing walls to be retained, that the proposals would constitute the demolition and construction of a new dwelling. The submission of a full planning application is therefore required to allow the assessment of the proposals in accordance with the relevant development plan polices. Furthermore, insufficient information has been provided to demonstrate that the continued occupation and use of the existing dwelling during the construction period would subsist.
4. 4.The proposal involves the demolition of an existing building, and, in the absence of a bat survey, the application has failed to adequately assess the potential presence of bats, which are a protected species. The proposal is therefore considered to be contrary to Policy ME1 of the Christchurch and East Dorset Local Plan, Part 1 Core Strategy 2014 and Section 15 of the National Planning Policy Framework.

From the council's decision notice.

Postcode

BH23 2QF

Application type

Householder

Scale / size

Small

Parish

Christchurch Town Council

Date validated

27 February 2026

Consultation expiry

23 April 2026

Consultation start

27 February 2026

Consultation end

23 April 2026

Agent address

Thera House 45a Commercial Road Poole Dorset BH14 0HU

Documents

6