Birmingham Live readers have been making their views known on the news that the verdict on whether a ‘mancave’ can remain in the garden of a Castle Bromwich property has been postponed until after the festive period. Solihull Council’s planning officials intend to inspect the partially constructed building themselves following discussions about its potential impact on neighbours.
Abbas Yousuf put forward his plans for the garden outbuilding, described as “lounge space/mancave”, to the council back in July. The proposal for the structure at his Woodford Avenue residence was up for consideration at the council’s most recent planning committee session.
Solihull Council planner Jon Hallam noted that the applicant had revised the original roof design to lessen the effect on adjacent properties, and the council officers were in favour of giving the green light to the project. However, during the consultation phase, seven objections were lodged, with complaints that it was “overbearing” and not in keeping with the local aesthetic.
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Councillor Edward Fitter empathised with those opposing the build but concurred with the recommendation for approval. Councillor Prish Sharma pointed out that the applicant could erect a flat-roofed structure without needing the committee’s consent.
Councillor Bob Grinsell, the committee’s chairman, proposed a site visit, stating “we could then make an accurate assessment of the situation.” Councillor McCarthy agreed, in the interest of making a fair decision.
In response to the decision to visit, the chairman joked: “I suppose we could go on New Year’s Day, we have nothing better to do.”
The council’s next meeting is set for January 8, when the issue could be discussed again.
Commenter Ijfox27 is horrified: “Some of the comments from the councillors are shocking! They couldn’t care less! The Chairman thinks it’s one big joke with their response. Why not have some backbone and get this eyesore removed? We all know which way the decision will go. Another nail in the Castle Bromwich coffin!”
G81 disagrees: “There’s no issue. The objections are utter tripe. Should’ve just put a flat, fibreglass roof on it though, problem solved.”
Waz12345 adds: “There are plenty of houses everywhere which have rooms like this built in the garden. If you look at all the objections they are from oldies who know each other and have lived on the road for years. It’s only one person objecting and the rest just want to show their support to this one individual. The council can’t stop this he will just need to put a flat roof on and there is nothing anyone can do!”
MaxPayne replies: “Looks to be, as expected, of a high build quality. The construction unequivocally adds to the cosmopolitan feel of Castle Bromwich. I’m sure Solihull Council will retrospectively approve permission for this build.”
Herealwaysbeanengland points out: “If you build within a metre of your boundary, which he clearly has, then maximum roof height is 2.5metres. Any competent builder should know this.”
Tommykelly says: “We have one on our lane and reported it to Solihull council stating it was above the permitted height & size. The reply was ‘we will ask the owner to reduce the height’. It never happened and it’s still there because they don’t want to upset the community! As the law states, if it’s oversized then take it down!”
Davedavedav jokes: “Government: “we demand more affordable housing!” Council: “This house looks a bit too affordable for our town, tear it down immediately!”
blueD writes: “I had a conservatory built which was smaller than permitted measurements required and I still had Solihull council come to my house saying there was a complaint and needed to see and measure it up to see if it needed to be removed. They couldn’t find anything wrong with it and couldn’t understand why someone would complain.”
Trutho believes: “It’s getting silly now. No permission should be allowed for extensions, man caves, dormer attics or porches.”
How do you feel about the mancave? Would you object if it was next to your property? Have your say in our comments section.