changing the appearance of uPVC

omotn

I have had a small uPVC conservatory built on the back of my house. My reading of the rules was that I did not need planning permission, but the local authority say I did, and that they would not have allowed uPVC. They are suggesting I can simply change the appearance so that it no longer looks like uPVC.
I have read that it is possible to etch the surface and then use paint to achieve a better finish. The enforcement officer has suggested applying an overlay or veneer to the glazing bars.
Can anyone advise the best way to go, or where to buy materials.
Thanks

panchenlama

B&Q sell UPVC primer which you can then paint over. I did this to a front door of a house I bought where the white UPVC was discoloured but sound. It looked good and you couldn't really tell it wasn't a wood door.

If you've primed your UPVC you can paint it what ever colour or paint effect you like.