A homeowner in Greater Manchester has been ordered to tear down a newly built house extension after it was constructed 2.1 metres larger than the dimensions approved by the local authority.
Retrospective Application Rejected
Bolton Council's planning committee voted decisively, by 10 votes to four, to reject a retrospective application from the applicant, Mr M Azeen. The application sought permission to keep a single-storey rear extension on a property in Farnworth, Bolton, which had already been fully constructed.
The committee heard that the extension projected five metres from the original house, significantly exceeding the approved plans. Planning officers argued the oversized structure was "overbearing" and caused significant harm to the amenity of the neighbouring property.
Impact on Neighbour's Light and Privacy
A key issue raised was the impact on the neighbour's living conditions. The report stated the extension overshadowed the adjacent dining room, kitchen, and a large section of the private garden.
Due to the path of the sun, the garden would be disproportionately shaded, detrimentally affecting the residents' enjoyment of their own home. Planners also noted the build encroached upon a 45-degree line drawn from the centre of the neighbour's closest ground-floor rear window, a standard test used to assess impact.
Family Needs Versus Planning Rules
During the meeting on January 9, 2026, a supporter speaking for Mr Azeen explained the extension was built to provide much-needed living space for his growing family. They contended that an existing 1.8-metre fence combined with a lower approved structure already impacted the window, and the extra 2.1 metres would not cause significant additional harm.
However, committee chair, Councillor Robert Morrisey, countered this argument. He stated that from the submitted pictures, it was evident the extension was overshadowing a principal room and a large garden section. "It's not justifiable, it has a detrimental impact on the amenity of neighbours," he concluded.
This was the second time a retrospective application for the structure had been rejected, with a previous attempt refused in April last year on similar grounds.
Demolition or Modification Required
The council's decision means that unless Mr Azeen launches a successful appeal, he will be forced to either completely demolish the extension or modify it to conform precisely with the originally approved plans.
This case highlights the stringent enforcement of planning regulations in the UK, even for relatively small deviations from approved designs. It follows other recent disputes where homeowners have faced costly corrective action for unauthorised developments, underscoring the importance of adhering strictly to granted planning permission.
