A PLAN to build a side extension and convert a garage at a home in Warndon was approved despite fears it would exacerbate already bad parking problems.

The side extension would be built over an existing driveway which ran along the side of a house in Saltwood Avenue in Worcester.

The garage would be converted into another room.

Council planners admitted that allowing the extension would have a visual impact for the next-door neighbour, but it would not be harmful enough to warrant refusing the plan.

The extension would sit about 20 inches above the garden fence, according to council planners.

Worcester City Council’s planning committee approved the plan at a meeting on Thursday (December 19).

Councillor Stephen Hodgson, who represents Warndon Parish North on Worcester City Council, said it was “unsuitable” because it was at the end of a narrow drive with no street parking directly in front of the house.

Cllr Hodgson had called the plan to the committee for a decision because of his concerns.

In his objection to the council, he said: “The property is unsuitable for this type of development being at the end of a narrow drive with no street vehicle parking directly in front of the house.

“The nearest road, about 30 metres away, is towards the entrance to Saltwood Avenue off Hastings Drive which is already congested with parked vehicles and narrows to just one lane beyond the driveway leading to [the home in] Saltwood Avenue and neighbouring properties.

“It is primarily for these reasons the application should be refused.”

One objection was raised by the next-door neighbours in Saltwood Avenue.

It said: “Parking additional cars on the roadside simply, is not an option. There is already a huge pressure on parking space with many homeowners resorting to cars being parked on pavements. It is crucial the parking aspect of this property is carefully considered.

“Walking around the existing residential estate it is clear that an extension of this type and size is not common and would be regarded as out of character for this suburban estate.

“The terracing effect from the front and side view of the house must be considered as we believe this planning application will set the precedent and benchmark for other property owners in the area.”