Plan to build house in grounds of one of Chiswick's oldest buildings

A decision is expected next week in the planning row over development in the grounds of a 17th century cottage, one of the oldest buildings in Chiswick.

Grade II listed No.1 Arlington Cottages is one of three terraced homes (near Sutton Road North) whose owner wants to build a three bedroom house in the grounds and to convert the listed cottage by removing a recent extension and adding a more appropriate one at the back.

The application is recommended for approval by Hounslow Council planners but is opposed by the West Chiswick & Gunnersbury Society. Following a 'call in' of the matter at a recent Chiswick Area Forum meeting (by Cllr Ranjit Gill), the matter goes before Hounslow's Planning Committee on Thursday, April 11th, for councillors to decide.

Marie Rabouhans of the West Chiswick & Gunnersbury Society (WCGS) has stated that they believe the proposal was not in keeping with the character of the conservation area. It would cause harm to the setting of the listed building and might damage mature trees in the front driveway through use of vehicles. The top floor would be of a height that would overlook and therefore this was overdevelopment, she said.

A total of seven objections were received by the Council. You can read the full report.

The property dates back to the early 17th Century and is approached via a long front garden with a large mature magnolia tree. Arlington Cottages is a group of three dwellings set well back from Arlington Gardens, close to the junction with Sutton Lane North.

The design plans says that it will be sensitive to the listed buildings and the surrounding houses and to the generally charming leafy setting in which it is placed.

The applicant, who grew up there and continues to reside there with her family, has said that the proposed development means that the cottage would be improved and restored. An extension which was not in keeping with the original cottage would be demolished. The new development would be very discreet and not seen from the main road. The front driveway was currently in daily use by family vehicles and there had been no damage caused to the two trees, which she loved.

April 4, 2019