planning permission from Southwark freeholder for extn?!

[madger]

Hello, I wondered if anyone could give me some advice? Has anyone whose actual Freeholder is Southwark managed to build a rear extension to their flat? I just wondered if anyone had managed it or encountered extra difficulties and what Southwark's attitude towards them generally is. Thanks in advance for any thoughts!

[James Barber]

Hi badger,

When a councillor I had a number of cases where a council leaseholder wished to build something and need Southwark as the freeholder to agree. It was a painful drawn out process but on a number of occasions successfully concluded. Loft conversions typically. I've not had casework for rear extension but I see no logical reason why the council would not agree. And if they don't I would counsel going to the Local Ombudsman.

If you get stuck email me and I'll try and help you steer through the system.

[edcam]

Our neighbours on both sides have Southwark as freeholders and one side is having a rear side return extension and the other a roof extension. Southwark were fine with both but are being slow and less helpful about a tree which has caused ground movement affecting our house and one of the neighbours but that's another subject altogether!

[madger]

Thank you so much to both contributors, hugely appreciated!