19 Russell Street, Windsor, SL4 1HQ

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

• whether the proposal would preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the Inner Windsor Conservation Area
• whether the proposal would provide satisfactory living conditions for future occupiers, with particular regard to private outdoor amenity space
• the effect of the proposal on climate change

What decided it

The less than substantial harm to the Conservation Area from the bulky and top-heavy appearance of the mansard roof, when weighed against the public benefits under NPPF paragraph 215, provided a strong reason for refusal under paragraph 11d(i) notwithstanding the housing land supply shortfall.

The less than substantial harm to the Conservation Area (at the lower end of the spectrum) and the failure to provide satisfactory living conditions were weighed against the moderate positive weight afforded to the provision of two additional dwellings and limited positive weight for other benefits; the harm outweighed the benefits, and the heritage policies of the Framework provided a strong reason for refusal under paragraph 11d(i).