Holland Villas, Kensington

Peacock + Smith secured planning permission, via a written representations appeal, for two rear ‘infill’ extensions at ground and first-floor level of a residential property located within the Holland Park Conservation Area in Kensington. The building is identified by the Council as a ‘positive building’ that makes a significant contribution to the character and appearance of the Conservation Area.

The contentious application was initially refused by the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, largely due to concerns over the design of the first-floor infill extensions and their perceived visual impact on neighbouring properties and the character of the Conservation Area.

Whilst there were no recent permissions for first-floor infill extensions in the surrounding area, the Inspector considered the arguments outlined within Peacock + Smith’s Statement of Case and concluded that the scheme would not impact neighbouring properties, harm the building’s architectural design, or affect the character of the Conservation Area, granting planning permission on appeal.

In addition, Peacock + Smith successfully challenged the Council’s onerous requirement to submit a Flood Risk Assessment before the commencement of works, with the Planning Inspectorate agreeing that this condition was unnecessary.