FOR the first time, Bexley Council has used the new government planning guidance on garden grabbing, to reject a planning application.
A developer had asked the council to extend the time limit on his planning application to demolish a house and build five new three-bedroom ones in its place.
The existing detached house at 48 Iron Mill Lane, Crayford, has a large garden which runs behind several other adjoining properties.
Permission for the redevelopment was initially refused by Bexley Council, but was overturned on appeal in 2007.
However, one of the conditions imposed by the planning inspector who allowed the appeal was work had to start before March 15 this year.
Bexley’s planning committee deferred its decision but have now decided not to extend the time limit, saying the redevelopment was out of character with the surrounding area.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here