7 Aberdour Close, Southampton, SO18 5PF

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

• the effect of the proposed development on the character and appearance of the surrounding area, with particular regard to trees within and around the appeal site that are protected by Tree Preservation Order
• the effect on living conditions of occupiers of the proposed new dwelling, with particular regard to daylight and sunlight
• the effect on living conditions of occupiers of No 7 Aberdour Close, with particular regard to privacy

What decided it

The proposed vehicle and cycle parking layout would create unacceptable risk of damage to protected trees and future safety concerns that would realistically lead to their loss or extensive reduction, causing significant harm to the character and appearance of the surrounding area that outweighs the housing benefits.

The moderate benefits of providing one new dwelling and efficient use of land were significantly and demonstrably outweighed by the adverse impacts of poor design and significant harm to character and appearance through likely loss or extensive reduction of protected trees.