Proposals for part-retrospective works at a home on Pump Lane North have been refused by Buckinghamshire Council.
The applicant said the proposed structure would be in keeping with his existing house and would match the traditional aesthetic of the surrounding area.
However, the planning authority disagreed, describing the plans as “inappropriate development” in the green belt.
The council said in its decision notice: “The proposed outbuilding, when considered cumulatively with the existing outbuilding on site, would result in disproportionate additions to the original dwelling plot.
“Specifically, the proposal would exceed the volume allowances permissible. As such, the development would have an adverse impact on the openness of the green belt and represents inappropriate development in the green belt which, by definition, is harmful to it.
“No very special circumstances have been advanced or are apparent to outweigh this identified harm.”
As part of his plans, the homeowner also proposed installing a skylight in the single-storey roof of his dining room, describing the works as “high-quality” additions to the property.
He said: “The proposed structure features a natural oak frame, consistent with the existing property and traditional aesthetic of the area and will be finished with a red cedar shingle roof, ensuring both durability and a sympathetic appearance.
“Accompanying the gazebo will be a new sandstone patio area and sleeper flower bed, integrating the structure seamlessly into the existing garden landscape.
“The proposed materials for the gazebo are intended to be similar to existing natural timber elements found within the property and its surroundings, ensuring the development is in keeping with the character of the area.
“We believe that the gazebo and skylight proposals represent high-quality additions to the property, with both being sensitively designed and appropriately scaled for their location.
“The gazebo will provide a functional and attractive outdoor space, while the skylight will provide some much-needed daylight into the otherwise dark open-plan dining, kitchen and lounge space.”
He also argued that neither the gazebo nor the skylight would adversely affect neighbouring properties or the wider character of the area, insisting that the works comply with local planning policies.
He added: “Additionally, in order to ensure the winter views (summer views are already obstructed by mature beech trees per site photos) from our neighbours to the south (Old Dairy Barn) are not impacted by the gazebo, we will also trim the existing beech trees on our south boundary to encourage them to retain their leaves during the winter.”
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