Policy information sourced from Runnymede Local Plan

EE14: Extensions and Alterations to and Replacement of Buildings in the Green Belt

The extension of a building is not inappropriate development provided that it does not result in disproportionate additions over and above the size of the original building.

The replacement of a building is not inappropriate development provided the new building is in the same use and is not materially larger than the building it replaces. In all cases, development proposals should maintain openness of the Green Belt and not conflict with the purposes of including the land in the Green Belt. In addition, new development should not materially increase the prominence of the development at the site. When assessing a proposal, the following considerations will be taken into account:

  • The planning history of the site (post 1st July 1948) including any previous extensions or enlargements including previous works carried out under permitted development;
  • The current lawful use of the existing building(s);
  • The use of the proposed building(s)/extension;
  • Existing and proposed floorspace including mezzanine levels, space under roofs and covered balconies;
  • Existing and proposed built footprint which may increase the spread and site coverage and reduce distances to boundaries;
  • Changes in mass, bulk and height of buildings including roof form changes and features, and any raising off ground to provide voids/flood mitigation;
  • Scale of buildings including from different aspects within and outside the site;
  • Inclusion of features which may impact on openness including basements and sunken areas, light wells, changes to ground levels including any exposed parts of buildings and ramps;
  • Other ancillary aspects of a development proposal such as garages and other outbuildings, walls and gates, areas of hardstanding and their use and external storage will be considered additionally in respect of the built envelope, function and linkages to the main dwelling. These may cumulatively impact on the openness of the Green Belt.

For more information please see the Local Plan