Front dormer planning application query

custardly

I have put a planning application for a flat roof front dormer on our detached house and received the following from the planning officer:

"Whilst I have no concerns with the general principal of the proposal I consider that a dormer that has a gable roof design would be more acceptable within the street scene.

The street scene is characterised by gable projecting details and a front projecting dormer which compliments the existing house and the street scene would appear more sympathetic to, and retain the character of, the dwelling and street scene.

I would be grateful if you would consider these comments in order that a more acceptable scheme can be reached."

Would someone with more experience with planning applications / reading between the lines comment on whether this means that my flat roof dormer will be rejected if I decide not to go for a gable roof design dormer?

seven-day-weekend

It will quite likely be rejected.  The planning officer thinks one with a gabled roof would suit your house better and also fit in with the street scene.  One with a gabled roof is likely to be approved.

jonnydeppiwish!

seven-day-weekend said:

It will quite likely be rejected.  The planning officer thinks one with a gabled roof would suit your house better and also fit in with the street scene.  One with a gabled roof is likely to be approved.

As above - the planning officer is telling you what will be acceptable. 

andy444

It will be impossible to say whether the planning department would definitely reject your choice of flat roof dormer if submitted as it depends on the individual planner and what the unique streetscene is like on your street.

It slightly depends how much you want a dormer with a flat roof as to how far you want to go with potentially resubmitting planning applications and appealing decisions. Seems unlikely they would initially accept a flat roof design.

FreeBear

A flat roof will require regular repair, and if felt is used, it will need replacing every 25 years or so. Once you add in the cost of scaffolding plus upgrading of insulation to meet building regs of the day, it gets expensive. A gabled (tiled) roof will only need minimal maintenance over the next 50-100 years. In addition, it is visually much more appealing from the street. May not be as practical internally, but that isn't a concern for the planning dept.

custardly

andy444 said:

It will be impossible to say whether the planning department would definitely reject your choice of flat roof dormer if submitted as it depends on the individual planner and what the unique streetscene is like on your street.

It slightly depends how much you want a dormer with a flat roof as to how far you want to go with potentially resubmitting planning applications and appealing decisions. Seems unlikely they would initially accept a flat roof design.

Cheers I'll see if I can call the planning officer to discuss. The same design was approved for a house two streets down (same street scene). So hopefully we have a chance.