Architect useful in light dispute
Architect (residential)
Hiring an architect appears to have been a good investment for one Portsmouth resident intending to carry out improvement work to their property.
The owner of a property in West Street, Old Portsmouth is hoping to add a single storey roof extension, but has encountered opposition from local residents.
People living close to the proposed extension have complained it will overlook their homes and block out the light, reports the News.
However, Jon Tyrrell of MTA Architects said the extension was designed to ensure it complies with the relevant regulations relating to light - and it appears council official agree.
Portsmouth City Council's planning department has investigated the issue and recommended that the project be given the green light at the next planning committee meeting.
Mr Tyrrell told the newspaper: "The council's planning officers say there is no significant loss of light over and above that which exists at the moment. If they had concerns we would have addressed them."
The government's Planning Portal recently launched new online guides outlining the kind of home improvement work which can be undertaken under permitted development regulations.
However, homeowners looking to undertake a significant project may still find that hiring an architect is a wise move, as a professional will be able to provide designs and advise on matters such as complying with building regulations.
By Jenny Turner