0:00:02 > 0:00:03THEY CHANT
0:00:03 > 0:00:05Planning battles are raging across Britain.
0:00:05 > 0:00:06I love the countryside.
0:00:06 > 0:00:08So do I, mate, so leave it alone.
0:00:08 > 0:00:09I don't have time for NIMBYs.
0:00:09 > 0:00:12No to the student village!
0:00:12 > 0:00:14In a drive to boost the economy,
0:00:14 > 0:00:17the Government has relaxed planning laws...
0:00:17 > 0:00:19Here we are with a massive planning application.
0:00:19 > 0:00:20It is a big project.
0:00:20 > 0:00:23You're talking about 270 million of economic benefit.
0:00:23 > 0:00:27I mean, we like to see enterprise but not on our doorstep.
0:00:27 > 0:00:29..so developers are cashing in...
0:00:29 > 0:00:33Of course I'm here to make a buck. Guilty as charged.
0:00:33 > 0:00:35..objectors are going to war.
0:00:35 > 0:00:38It's not morally right, it's not socially right.
0:00:38 > 0:00:41- It's disgusting. - Totally stitched up.
0:00:41 > 0:00:45And I'm not having that they were frightened of a bunch of pensioners.
0:00:45 > 0:00:49Deciding who wins are Britain's planners.
0:00:49 > 0:00:50I can't sit on the fence.
0:00:50 > 0:00:53Well, it's not a fence, it's railings, basically.
0:00:59 > 0:01:02Tonight, one couple expose their bold plan to stop a development...
0:01:02 > 0:01:06- We are both naturists...- I don't know whether to put this on camera.
0:01:06 > 0:01:08..and it may put off prospective buyers.
0:01:08 > 0:01:10..residents are pushed to the limit...
0:01:10 > 0:01:13If it goes against us, I could probably kill somebody.
0:01:13 > 0:01:16..and objectors tell the architect where to go.
0:01:16 > 0:01:19Between the Gherkin and the Shard, it'd look lovely.
0:01:27 > 0:01:31Across the country, the number of successful planning applications
0:01:31 > 0:01:34for new homes has risen by more than 20%
0:01:34 > 0:01:37since the planning laws were relaxed in March 2012.
0:01:41 > 0:01:44But in the sleepy village of Slad in Gloucestershire,
0:01:44 > 0:01:47the setting of Laurie Lee's classic novel Cider With Rosie,
0:01:47 > 0:01:50a planning application for a new property
0:01:50 > 0:01:51is upsetting the apple cart.
0:01:57 > 0:02:00Today, head of planning at Stroud District Council, Phil Skill,
0:02:00 > 0:02:03is on his way to visit the proposed building site.
0:02:06 > 0:02:08You must excuse me.
0:02:08 > 0:02:12The Japanese stalks on this thing confuse the heck out of me so quite
0:02:12 > 0:02:16often I'll change lanes by indicating with the windscreen wipers, so...
0:02:18 > 0:02:21This plot of land is just under an acre.
0:02:21 > 0:02:24Originally, there was a small bungalow on the site...
0:02:26 > 0:02:30..but the previous owners knocked it down and sold the land, with
0:02:30 > 0:02:34planning permission to build a detached two-storey house.
0:02:34 > 0:02:37Obviously, these houses are of an age
0:02:37 > 0:02:39where they're probably ready for either
0:02:39 > 0:02:42major renovation or rebuild, as this one was.
0:02:43 > 0:02:46The plans that have already been greenlit by the planners
0:02:46 > 0:02:50are called 'live' or 'extant' plans.
0:02:50 > 0:02:51They are still valid
0:02:51 > 0:02:54and mean the developer could start work immediately.
0:02:54 > 0:02:57But the new owner has new ideas.
0:02:57 > 0:03:01The red line shows the proposed 3m increase in roof height
0:03:01 > 0:03:03at one side of the property.
0:03:03 > 0:03:06My opinion is the site can actually take a substantial building.
0:03:08 > 0:03:13What I'm worried about is the height of the building.
0:03:13 > 0:03:18In order to make a recommendation for approval or refusal, Phil needs
0:03:18 > 0:03:22to visualise whether the proposed building is too tall for the plot.
0:03:22 > 0:03:25There's no dwelling in place as a comparison,
0:03:25 > 0:03:28but there is something else to help.
0:03:28 > 0:03:31Quite often the neighbours or even the developer
0:03:31 > 0:03:36will place things on the site to give you a visual cue
0:03:36 > 0:03:38as to how high a building is. In this case,
0:03:38 > 0:03:41we believe that the neighbours have put some scaffolding poles up
0:03:41 > 0:03:44with a high-vis vest
0:03:44 > 0:03:48to indicate the height of the ridge of the building.
0:03:48 > 0:03:50Now we've not verified that,
0:03:50 > 0:03:53but it does give you an indication of what the neighbour thinks.
0:03:55 > 0:03:59Rod and Terry Clifford have lived next door to the proposed site
0:03:59 > 0:04:00for 20 years.
0:04:00 > 0:04:05This is the first part of the extension that we put on the house.
0:04:06 > 0:04:08Their property was a small bungalow,
0:04:08 > 0:04:12which they've added to over the years to make a large family home
0:04:12 > 0:04:14four times its original size.
0:04:15 > 0:04:19We bought the property some 20 years ago.
0:04:19 > 0:04:22We wanted to extend it.
0:04:22 > 0:04:27Because there wasn't an abundance of cash available at the time,
0:04:27 > 0:04:30we've built it as we could afford it.
0:04:33 > 0:04:37The Cliffords have done all the building work themselves,
0:04:37 > 0:04:41using pieces from reclamation yards, jumble sales and auctions
0:04:41 > 0:04:44to create every room on a shoestring.
0:04:44 > 0:04:47This came from a junk shop up in Minchinhampton,
0:04:47 > 0:04:49it was about a fiver.
0:04:49 > 0:04:51This came from an old draper's shop.
0:04:51 > 0:04:54The hammer dropped at £70.
0:04:54 > 0:04:58This piece of wood here was 50p in a Scout auction.
0:04:58 > 0:04:59Come on, Zigs, out the way.
0:04:59 > 0:05:01Rod and Terry did not oppose
0:05:01 > 0:05:04the original plans for the site next door,
0:05:04 > 0:05:08but they are one of the 14 objectors to the developer's new proposition.
0:05:08 > 0:05:12The build is obviously in front of us now.
0:05:12 > 0:05:13Erm...
0:05:15 > 0:05:20It's so hard to visualise from plans as to heights,
0:05:20 > 0:05:24so I put up a flagpole at the weekend,
0:05:24 > 0:05:28so that hopefully, if the planners came, they would understand.
0:05:28 > 0:05:31Um...
0:05:31 > 0:05:33That is the height of the ridge tile,
0:05:33 > 0:05:38and comes across and ends under this vertical tree here.
0:05:38 > 0:05:42What he's proposing is just too big and too tall.
0:05:45 > 0:05:49The man behind the scheme is property developer Paul Blakey.
0:05:49 > 0:05:50If he gets permission to go ahead,
0:05:50 > 0:05:53he plans to sell the four-bedroomed, detached property
0:05:53 > 0:05:55for over a million pounds,
0:05:55 > 0:05:58making it the most expensive house on the road.
0:06:00 > 0:06:03It's very farcical, that, and very childish, in my opinion.
0:06:03 > 0:06:07Paul insists the footprint of the house he's proposing
0:06:07 > 0:06:11is not significantly larger than the original, extant plans
0:06:11 > 0:06:17and he can't understand why Rod and Terry are objecting so strongly.
0:06:17 > 0:06:20They have got four bedrooms. They have got two bathrooms.
0:06:20 > 0:06:25They have got an indoor swimming pool. They've got a lounge,
0:06:25 > 0:06:29a dining room, a study, a kitchen/diner,
0:06:29 > 0:06:32a utility room and a double garage. In actual fact,
0:06:32 > 0:06:35they have got more rooms that what I'm asking for.
0:06:37 > 0:06:40The Cliffords won't have the final say as to whether
0:06:40 > 0:06:42Paul's £1 million property gets built,
0:06:42 > 0:06:46but they've already warned him that their lifestyle choice
0:06:46 > 0:06:49could drive away potential buyers.
0:06:50 > 0:06:53I said, "One thing I feel I must tell you,
0:06:53 > 0:06:55"if it's a speculative build.
0:06:56 > 0:06:59"We are both naturists.
0:07:00 > 0:07:04"And therefore you may see nudity in the garden.
0:07:04 > 0:07:07"And if you want to sell it, it may put off prospective buyers."
0:07:07 > 0:07:10- I don't think you ought to mention that, really!- Why not?
0:07:11 > 0:07:15But Paul isn't going to let Rod and Terry's outdoor pursuit
0:07:15 > 0:07:19put him off his fight to build his £1 million property.
0:07:19 > 0:07:22What they do in their garden, I couldn't care less.
0:07:22 > 0:07:27Because I've been negotiating with the planners for five months,
0:07:27 > 0:07:32I cannot sustain, financially,
0:07:32 > 0:07:35to leave this site while I go to appeal.
0:07:35 > 0:07:39I've got £400,000 stood in this site.
0:07:39 > 0:07:42I've got to turn this round and make a profit.
0:07:51 > 0:07:54Every new build brings a new design.
0:07:54 > 0:07:56But not everyone's going to like it.
0:08:00 > 0:08:03In Broxbourne, Hertfordshire, planning assistant Colin Free
0:08:03 > 0:08:06is assessing a site for a potential new building.
0:08:10 > 0:08:12Ripe for renovation, this, isn't it?
0:08:14 > 0:08:17The landowners are proposing a block of eight flats.
0:08:17 > 0:08:20But it's the bold design that's provoked strong opinions
0:08:20 > 0:08:23in an area of more traditional housing.
0:08:23 > 0:08:27It's been described in the office as...
0:08:27 > 0:08:31um, impolitely, as Gonzo's nose.
0:08:31 > 0:08:34What do you make of the design?
0:08:34 > 0:08:35HE LAUGHS
0:08:35 > 0:08:37Sorry!
0:08:39 > 0:08:40Well.
0:08:41 > 0:08:43It's growing on me, actually.
0:08:43 > 0:08:45I didn't like it at first.
0:08:45 > 0:08:48But I can see now that it's certainly got merits. It's..
0:08:50 > 0:08:56..it would be quite a landmark feature in the local area.
0:08:56 > 0:09:00For years to come, I'm sure people who drive past it and think,
0:09:00 > 0:09:03"Hmm, that's interesting."
0:09:03 > 0:09:07They might not like it, we'll have to see.
0:09:07 > 0:09:09It's an interesting one, very interesting.
0:09:13 > 0:09:17The developers behind this scheme are Italian-born Toni Fantozzi
0:09:17 > 0:09:18and his son Joe.
0:09:19 > 0:09:21- You said you want a small one.- Yeah.
0:09:21 > 0:09:23SHE SPEAKS IN ITALIAN
0:09:23 > 0:09:2882-year-old Toni has been living in the UK since 1957.
0:09:28 > 0:09:31He used to be a market gardener in the fruit and veg business,
0:09:31 > 0:09:35but now works alongside his 48-year-old son Joe,
0:09:35 > 0:09:36who still lives at home.
0:09:40 > 0:09:41Well, when the family
0:09:41 > 0:09:44work together, they go a long way.
0:09:44 > 0:09:49My chequebook, I put his name on it, I got my name.
0:09:49 > 0:09:52He spends money on something, I'm not going to question it
0:09:52 > 0:09:54cos I trust him. He's not going to swindle me, is he?
0:09:54 > 0:09:57From a business point of view, it's really good.
0:09:57 > 0:10:01Not that he does much because he's retired. But...
0:10:01 > 0:10:05Well, he's also got one arm, but that doesn't really stop him!
0:10:05 > 0:10:08Toni lost his arm in a forklift accident
0:10:08 > 0:10:11but that hasn't prevented him from building a property empire
0:10:11 > 0:10:15worth an estimated £3.5 million.
0:10:15 > 0:10:21We started small and, bit by bit, we grew.
0:10:21 > 0:10:23We've refurbished quite a few properties.
0:10:23 > 0:10:27We've done a large block of two-bedroom flats.
0:10:27 > 0:10:30We've still got them as well. They're all ready now.
0:10:30 > 0:10:33This would be our biggest project yet.
0:10:33 > 0:10:38This application to build eight flats is the Fantozzis' third attempt
0:10:38 > 0:10:41to get permission to build on their former nursery site.
0:10:41 > 0:10:46So far, the project has taken two years and significant funds.
0:10:46 > 0:10:50We've spent somewhere in the region of £120,000.
0:10:50 > 0:10:51That's just paperwork.
0:10:53 > 0:10:57If it's rejected, that's a colossal amount of money to lose.
0:10:58 > 0:11:02But it's in the residents' best favour to have an unusual building
0:11:02 > 0:11:04which will set off the landscape, I think.
0:11:06 > 0:11:10But with 84 objections lodged,
0:11:10 > 0:11:13the Fantozzis are far from on the home straight.
0:11:13 > 0:11:16Without sticking my neck out,
0:11:16 > 0:11:19I don't think that's going to be accepted.
0:11:19 > 0:11:23Ron Canterford and Ron Sharples have been next-door neighbours
0:11:23 > 0:11:25for 48 years.
0:11:25 > 0:11:28Some people call us the Two Ronnies,
0:11:28 > 0:11:31but, um, we take that with a smile.
0:11:31 > 0:11:33HE LAUGHS
0:11:33 > 0:11:36Their gardens back onto the proposed site
0:11:36 > 0:11:41and they are both strongly objecting to the Fantozzis' vision for the development.
0:11:41 > 0:11:45I'm not saying it's not a nice-looking building in its right place.
0:11:45 > 0:11:48Between the Gherkin and the Shard, it'd look lovely.
0:11:48 > 0:11:50Not on a nice little corner.
0:11:50 > 0:11:53It don't need something like that there.
0:11:53 > 0:11:57Council policy says it should be in keeping with the area,
0:11:57 > 0:11:59clearly it's not.
0:12:07 > 0:12:13Look, them house, they're like a barn, they're like a shed there.
0:12:13 > 0:12:15They have got no taste!
0:12:15 > 0:12:20That's why myself, on the other length,
0:12:20 > 0:12:24I want to build something which is completely different than any other.
0:12:24 > 0:12:26Fashion changes, styles change,
0:12:26 > 0:12:29and he was just after something slightly different,
0:12:29 > 0:12:34which stands out amongst the normal box houses that you see around you.
0:12:37 > 0:12:41Totally out of keeping. It would be a huge domination of the area.
0:12:42 > 0:12:46The whole thing really needs careful rethinking.
0:12:52 > 0:12:57Having assessed the site, planning assistant Colin will need to make a recommendation
0:12:57 > 0:12:59to approve or reject the application.
0:13:01 > 0:13:04A design like this will engender strong opinions both ways.
0:13:04 > 0:13:07It's been described as a Marmite application -
0:13:07 > 0:13:09you either love it or you hate it.
0:13:09 > 0:13:12Local resident Ron Sharples hates it
0:13:12 > 0:13:16and he isn't afraid to let the Fantozzis and Colin know exactly how he feels.
0:13:16 > 0:13:20We've lived here 50 years and now we're all trying to move.
0:13:20 > 0:13:23Value of the property goes down and you won't be able to move
0:13:23 > 0:13:27once that gets built, overlooking all those gardens along the back there.
0:13:27 > 0:13:29It's disgusting.
0:13:31 > 0:13:33Sorry. It's just not right.
0:13:33 > 0:13:36It's not morally right, it's not socially right.
0:13:36 > 0:13:38You're entitled to your opinion.
0:13:38 > 0:13:40Anyway, I've got to go.
0:13:40 > 0:13:43I've got to pick Wendy up from the hairdresser's.
0:13:58 > 0:14:02In Britain, planning is a democratic process.
0:14:02 > 0:14:05Members of the public can challenge any application,
0:14:05 > 0:14:08no matter how small, if they don't agree with what is proposed.
0:14:11 > 0:14:14In Torfaen, South Wales, retired couple Jan and Pete Newsome
0:14:14 > 0:14:19have lived in their close for 20 years and there's nothing they love more
0:14:19 > 0:14:23than their immaculate garden they've meticulously nurtured.
0:14:23 > 0:14:25I think if your garden is nice
0:14:25 > 0:14:27and you keep your outside looking as nice as you can,
0:14:27 > 0:14:31you're welcoming people to come visit you then.
0:14:31 > 0:14:34It's what Alan Titchmarsh says!
0:14:34 > 0:14:37Although not everyone is welcome.
0:14:37 > 0:14:39It's not a child-friendly garden.
0:14:39 > 0:14:40They can look at it.
0:14:40 > 0:14:42But you don't put a toe on the lawn!
0:14:42 > 0:14:44SHE LAUGHS
0:14:44 > 0:14:46Kill!
0:14:46 > 0:14:48We've put our heart and soul into this house.
0:14:48 > 0:14:50It's where we'll go from in the box.
0:14:50 > 0:14:52Yeah! We'll go out feet first!
0:14:54 > 0:14:58Recently, Jan and Pete have been gathering support from fellow residents
0:14:58 > 0:15:04against a planning application that's threatening to change the appearance of their beloved close.
0:15:04 > 0:15:07Pete drafted a letter so everybody could sign.
0:15:07 > 0:15:10So I went round and I knocked everybody in the close.
0:15:10 > 0:15:12And I didn't say no more, but give them the letter.
0:15:12 > 0:15:16I says, "It's about that mess that we've been looking at."
0:15:16 > 0:15:17And they just signed it.
0:15:18 > 0:15:22The controversial planning application in question
0:15:22 > 0:15:27relates to this wooden fence outside their next-door neighbour's house.
0:15:27 > 0:15:31The property is owned by one of Wales' biggest housing associations
0:15:31 > 0:15:36who built the fence as a temporary replacement for a brick wall that collapsed a year ago.
0:15:37 > 0:15:40That's the picture of how it looked before the wall fell down.
0:15:40 > 0:15:45Now the owner wants to erect 12.5m of galvanised railings
0:15:45 > 0:15:47to replace the wooden fence
0:15:47 > 0:15:51as they say it's the most cost-effective solution.
0:15:51 > 0:15:54Galvanised fence, what they're proposing,
0:15:54 > 0:15:56- just does not fit anywhere.- No.
0:15:56 > 0:15:58Surely you can build a wall that's going to stay up!
0:15:58 > 0:16:01The Romans did it and some of their stuff's still here!
0:16:01 > 0:16:05It's not rocket science to build a wall, is it?
0:16:07 > 0:16:09All the other residents in the close agree -
0:16:09 > 0:16:15including the tenants of the property, who have signed the petition against their own landlord.
0:16:15 > 0:16:17How can big galvanised railings look nice?
0:16:17 > 0:16:21I don't care if they are gold. It will look like a big cage.
0:16:21 > 0:16:23What do you want?
0:16:23 > 0:16:24- Wall!- The wall back.
0:16:27 > 0:16:32This man juggles all the major planning applications in Torfaen
0:16:32 > 0:16:34from power stations to shopping centres.
0:16:34 > 0:16:38Today, however, the Head of Planning will bring his years of experience
0:16:38 > 0:16:40to good use on this application.
0:16:43 > 0:16:44God, it's a bit wobbly, isn't it?
0:16:46 > 0:16:49I've just given myself a...
0:16:49 > 0:16:51Ooh, nasty!
0:16:53 > 0:16:56It's Duncan Smith's job to decide on behalf of the council
0:16:56 > 0:16:58whether to risk upsetting the public
0:16:58 > 0:17:02and allow the 12.5m of metal railings to be built.
0:17:03 > 0:17:07We're paid to have opinions. I can't sit on the fence.
0:17:07 > 0:17:09It's not a fence, it's railings, basically.
0:17:09 > 0:17:14I don't think this would change the overall character of this area.
0:17:14 > 0:17:19It would be different from what was there originally. I've got no problem with that.
0:17:22 > 0:17:25Planner Duncan is recommending approval for the railings,
0:17:25 > 0:17:29but insists they should be painted black or dark green.
0:17:30 > 0:17:32Why are you choosing black or dark green?
0:17:32 > 0:17:35Because I've got black on my back garden.
0:17:35 > 0:17:37It looks very good, actually!
0:17:39 > 0:17:43However, as he faces the residents' implacable opposition,
0:17:43 > 0:17:45Duncan wants the decision to be made by
0:17:45 > 0:17:48the elected councillors of the planning committee.
0:17:48 > 0:17:51Despite the fact it's what we would call a minor application,
0:17:51 > 0:17:5623 people bothered to sign a petition. So I felt that
0:17:56 > 0:17:59this warranted putting the application to the meeting.
0:17:59 > 0:18:02At least then the decision is taken in open forum.
0:18:02 > 0:18:05People can see that decision being taken.
0:18:05 > 0:18:08I can see the people actually saying why they're doing it.
0:18:08 > 0:18:10- Did you sweep up? - Yes, I swept up.
0:18:10 > 0:18:12She filmed me sweeping up - it's on camera!
0:18:12 > 0:18:14You missed a bit!
0:18:14 > 0:18:16Having galvanised the opposition,
0:18:16 > 0:18:19Peter and Jan now want a show of strength
0:18:19 > 0:18:21at next week's planning committee.
0:18:21 > 0:18:26Laura, can I ask you if you'd be free next Tuesday, four o'clock?
0:18:26 > 0:18:30They're lobbying their neighbours to join them when the decision is made.
0:18:30 > 0:18:35I mean, are they going to ignore everybody that lives here?
0:18:35 > 0:18:38Where are those railings going to fit in?
0:18:38 > 0:18:41You can edit this bit out, but what clown thought of that?!
0:18:41 > 0:18:43HE LAUGHS
0:18:43 > 0:18:46Pete and Jan might have the support of all 23 residents,
0:18:46 > 0:18:48but they're up against a heavyweight.
0:18:48 > 0:18:53The applicant is one of Wales' biggest housing associations, Linc.
0:18:53 > 0:18:57Despite managing more than 4,000 houses, their top man is determined
0:18:57 > 0:19:00to see railings going up on the close.
0:19:00 > 0:19:02I have been to the site. I've decided
0:19:02 > 0:19:03it's going to be galvanised.
0:19:03 > 0:19:06I know that it's going to be around about 1.1m high
0:19:06 > 0:19:08and it's THE most attractive option.
0:19:10 > 0:19:14When approval is given, then we'll start work almost immediately.
0:19:15 > 0:19:17And with the support of Torfaen's planners,
0:19:17 > 0:19:20are Linc an unstoppable force?
0:19:28 > 0:19:32Back in Broxbourne, Hertfordshire, there's trouble in Paradise.
0:19:34 > 0:19:37Local property developers the Fantozzis are proposing
0:19:37 > 0:19:42to build a block of eight flats in the middle of a residential area.
0:19:42 > 0:19:45But the locals are not impressed with the design.
0:19:46 > 0:19:49I feel that is suitable, it is vibrant,
0:19:49 > 0:19:52it gives to that corner a kind of excitement.
0:19:53 > 0:19:57Sicilian-born architect Luigi Bille designed the flats.
0:19:57 > 0:20:00Both he and the Fantozzis think the look of the building
0:20:00 > 0:20:03would add to the character of the local area.
0:20:03 > 0:20:05I think it has got a wow factor.
0:20:05 > 0:20:08Whether you like, and you say, "Wow, it's crap!"
0:20:08 > 0:20:10or, "Wow, it's good!"
0:20:10 > 0:20:15there's nothing comparable in the area. I agree. I noticed that.
0:20:15 > 0:20:19But that is the reason of putting through a project like that -
0:20:19 > 0:20:20to make something different.
0:20:23 > 0:20:27But Luigi's wow factor has failed to woo the locals.
0:20:29 > 0:20:3384 residents have already made their objections known, including
0:20:33 > 0:20:37Brian Mollett, who also helped quash the Fantozzis' last two schemes.
0:20:38 > 0:20:41I mean, if you've seen the pictures of this thing,
0:20:41 > 0:20:43it's the worst one yet out of the three.
0:20:43 > 0:20:46I mean, the last two were bad enough but this one is absolutely terrible.
0:20:49 > 0:20:53Brian has lived on the corner of the close for 29 years.
0:20:54 > 0:20:56Dinner is served.
0:20:56 > 0:20:58Ah, merci. Merci bien.
0:20:58 > 0:21:00Oh, that's all right.
0:21:00 > 0:21:04He's no stranger to objecting to local planning applications.
0:21:04 > 0:21:08Two golf driving ranges, there was a school, there was a radio mast,
0:21:08 > 0:21:10there was the football pitches,
0:21:10 > 0:21:12- there was a defined footpath, that's six.- Yeah.
0:21:13 > 0:21:14Um...
0:21:14 > 0:21:16bearing in mind, these projects,
0:21:16 > 0:21:19as you probably appreciate with this planning,
0:21:19 > 0:21:21they do tend to drag on.
0:21:21 > 0:21:25But after all his planning battles, Brian's determination to keep
0:21:25 > 0:21:29his neighbourhood just the way he likes it is still going strong.
0:21:29 > 0:21:32I quite enjoy it because you've got a sense of achievement, you see.
0:21:32 > 0:21:36You don't win 'em all. We've only lost one in all these years.
0:21:36 > 0:21:40But I love a good row, yeah. Especially if I'm in the right.
0:21:40 > 0:21:44What do you make of it, all his fights?
0:21:44 > 0:21:48Oh, no. I quite agree with it. I think someone's got to do it.
0:21:48 > 0:21:50And, well, we're both retired,
0:21:50 > 0:21:53so it's something to fill our time, as well.
0:22:05 > 0:22:07With so many people vehemently opposed
0:22:07 > 0:22:11to the proposed block of flats, planning assistant Colin Free
0:22:11 > 0:22:15has decided to find out more about residents' concerns.
0:22:17 > 0:22:19- Hello!- Hello, Brian.- All right, Guv?
0:22:19 > 0:22:22My name's Colin Free, I'm the case officer
0:22:22 > 0:22:25for the application which I believe you've been objecting to.
0:22:25 > 0:22:31Well, yeah, Psycho on a bad day! It's a monstrosity!
0:22:31 > 0:22:32Yes, yeah.
0:22:32 > 0:22:34Is that your main objection to it?
0:22:34 > 0:22:36The main factor, it just doesn't fit.
0:22:36 > 0:22:39People would come up here on coach trips just to see it, I think.
0:22:39 > 0:22:42It would be quite famous, I would think,
0:22:42 > 0:22:43to see the horror of Cheshunt.
0:22:43 > 0:22:46It's been described to me as a bit of a Marmite -
0:22:46 > 0:22:47either you love it or you hate it.
0:22:47 > 0:22:50Well, I can't see anybody loving that.
0:22:50 > 0:22:53You know, I mean, it's like something out of Grand Designs, innit?
0:22:53 > 0:22:55I mean...
0:22:55 > 0:22:57Is that such a bad thing, to be aspirational?
0:22:57 > 0:23:01Yes! I can't see anybody convince me this compliments the area.
0:23:01 > 0:23:03And I think you might have to agree on that, to be honest.
0:23:03 > 0:23:05Come on, to be really honest.
0:23:10 > 0:23:13Back at the office, Colin has come to a decision.
0:23:15 > 0:23:18We've met with residents and we appreciate their concerns
0:23:18 > 0:23:20but we feel, as a department,
0:23:20 > 0:23:24that it does meet our policies and our requirements.
0:23:24 > 0:23:26The design is contentious, we realise that,
0:23:26 > 0:23:28but we're going to recommend approval.
0:23:28 > 0:23:32But hope is not lost for Brian and the other local objectors
0:23:32 > 0:23:35because the final call on the Fantozzis' flats will be made
0:23:35 > 0:23:39by the elected members of the council's planning committee.
0:23:50 > 0:23:55In the last year, Government figures showed 400,000 plots of land
0:23:55 > 0:23:59across England and Wales had planning permission to build on.
0:23:59 > 0:24:02Yet only half of these sites had started construction.
0:24:04 > 0:24:08In Slad, Gloucestershire, local developer Paul Blakey bought an acre
0:24:08 > 0:24:12of land with planning permission to build a two-storey house.
0:24:12 > 0:24:16But six months later, the £400,000 site is still dormant.
0:24:19 > 0:24:22Paul has submitted a new planning application
0:24:22 > 0:24:24to build a three-storey house,
0:24:24 > 0:24:26which has led to strong objections from neighbours.
0:24:28 > 0:24:29I mean, these people
0:24:29 > 0:24:32are just so small-minded.
0:24:32 > 0:24:34They need to get a life.
0:24:34 > 0:24:36Having assessed the site,
0:24:36 > 0:24:41Head of Planning at Stroud District Council, Phil Skill...
0:24:41 > 0:24:42Ouch!
0:24:42 > 0:24:46..now needs to make a recommendation for approval or refusal.
0:24:46 > 0:24:48Now, obviously, with three storeys,
0:24:48 > 0:24:51you're going to get more floor area and I think that's being picked up
0:24:51 > 0:24:55by the neighbours, but the scale of the difference between the two
0:24:55 > 0:24:58is such that there won't be a significant harm created
0:24:58 > 0:25:03by the larger scheme, so we will be recommending permission.
0:25:05 > 0:25:09But it will be up to the planning committee to make the final decision.
0:25:09 > 0:25:12Today, Phil is taking the committee to the site
0:25:12 > 0:25:14so they can assess it for themselves.
0:25:14 > 0:25:17It's interesting, getting out with the councillors
0:25:17 > 0:25:21and dealing with them informally rather than a formal meeting.
0:25:21 > 0:25:25- Do you all get on? - Yeah, there's a camaraderie.
0:25:25 > 0:25:29But I never get invited to Christmas parties or Bar Mitzvahs or anything.
0:25:32 > 0:25:34The planning committee is made up of 12 men
0:25:34 > 0:25:37and women who are elected by their constituents.
0:25:37 > 0:25:41Stroud councillors include a retired chartered accountant
0:25:41 > 0:25:43and a former teacher.
0:25:43 > 0:25:47When I go on a journey, say, on the train, so I'm able to look out of the window,
0:25:47 > 0:25:51I find myself actually really looking at all the buildings
0:25:51 > 0:25:54on the way and making planning judgments on them.
0:25:54 > 0:25:56You should've got planning permission for your hut!
0:25:56 > 0:26:00Yeah, I think, "Oh, gosh, we wouldn't have permitted that. That's terrible."
0:26:00 > 0:26:03Principal planning officer Darryl Rogers
0:26:03 > 0:26:05is leading today's site visit.
0:26:05 > 0:26:09What we have here is an application for a replacement dwelling.
0:26:09 > 0:26:12You'll notice there is no dwelling on the site currently.
0:26:12 > 0:26:14That's what was here.
0:26:14 > 0:26:16Classic sort of '20s, '30s bungalow,
0:26:16 > 0:26:19very typical of what has been along this part of Slad Road
0:26:19 > 0:26:23and what has been systematically replaced with larger dwellings.
0:26:23 > 0:26:25On site visits, applicants
0:26:25 > 0:26:28and objectors are not allowed to lobby the councillors.
0:26:28 > 0:26:31However, next-door neighbours and the scheme's strongest objectors,
0:26:31 > 0:26:34Rod and Terry Clifford, have come up with
0:26:34 > 0:26:38a way to sway the committee's vote without breaking the rules.
0:26:39 > 0:26:42We took the extant planning and the current planning
0:26:42 > 0:26:47and superimposed one on top of the other so that you could
0:26:47 > 0:26:50see very clearly the difference in size.
0:26:52 > 0:26:55The red line indicates the new proposed three-storey property.
0:26:55 > 0:26:58We made this pack up
0:26:58 > 0:27:01and hand-delivered that to all the councillors,
0:27:01 > 0:27:05the 12 councillors on the building committee,
0:27:05 > 0:27:07so that they all had their own copy,
0:27:07 > 0:27:11because we felt that they probably hadn't had the opportunity to
0:27:11 > 0:27:16compare like with like, the extant planning with the current planning.
0:27:20 > 0:27:23But when the committee meet a week later, the planners have noticed
0:27:23 > 0:27:27discrepancies in the measurements of developer Paul's plans,
0:27:27 > 0:27:31and the case is deferred for another month so this can be rectified.
0:27:32 > 0:27:33I'm glad that
0:27:33 > 0:27:36the committee feel that there's enough questions
0:27:36 > 0:27:38behind the application
0:27:38 > 0:27:41- to relook at it.- So that's positive.
0:27:44 > 0:27:48But for developer Paul Blakey, time is money.
0:27:51 > 0:27:55If you take my wages and my son's wages,
0:27:55 > 0:27:58that costs me roughly £8,000 a month.
0:27:58 > 0:28:05So, all in all, it has cost me the best part of £35-40,000.
0:28:08 > 0:28:14It's utterly ridiculous to say that local people can design your house.
0:28:14 > 0:28:19It's my house, my land. They are just literally jealous.
0:28:19 > 0:28:20It's as simple as that.
0:28:20 > 0:28:23They just don't want a beautiful house built here
0:28:23 > 0:28:26when all of theirs are very average.
0:28:27 > 0:28:30Paul now needs to submit new plans with the correct measurements
0:28:30 > 0:28:32in time for next month's committee meeting.
0:28:32 > 0:28:35So although the Cliffords have won the battle,
0:28:35 > 0:28:38it's still possible Paul could win the war.
0:28:38 > 0:28:41I think they are probably content that approval hasn't been granted,
0:28:41 > 0:28:44but this may just be a stay of execution.
0:28:44 > 0:28:46We've still got to see what the members have said.
0:28:46 > 0:28:48The members have not yet debated this,
0:28:48 > 0:28:51so we don't know which way it's going yet, do we?
0:28:57 > 0:29:01The UK faces a large and growing gap between the houses we need
0:29:01 > 0:29:07and new houses being built - a shortfall of approximately 200,000.
0:29:08 > 0:29:12In Cheshunt, Hertfordshire, planner Andy MacDougall is assessing
0:29:12 > 0:29:15an application to provide seven new properties.
0:29:16 > 0:29:21This application is for five flats to be located
0:29:21 > 0:29:24in the dwelling at the bottom of the driveway.
0:29:24 > 0:29:30As you come into the site, a further two dwellings are located roughly...
0:29:30 > 0:29:35roughly where we are on site at the moment, in the form of a pair
0:29:35 > 0:29:39of semidetached houses with parking spaces.
0:29:39 > 0:29:44And I've got to assess how these buildings sit both within the site
0:29:44 > 0:29:47and how they sit adjacent to the neighbouring properties.
0:29:50 > 0:29:53This site is currently used as a builder's yard,
0:29:53 > 0:29:57but it could provide vital housing for the borough as it's
0:29:57 > 0:30:01in a residential area and close to local amenities.
0:30:01 > 0:30:04But Andy has already received nine objections from local residents
0:30:04 > 0:30:09who are unhappy with the plans, so he's got a tough decision ahead.
0:30:09 > 0:30:15While I think most people recognise that houses need to be built,
0:30:15 > 0:30:20it's fairly rare to find neighbours which want it built in gardens
0:30:20 > 0:30:22or on sites next to their own.
0:30:22 > 0:30:24This could be funny. Whee!
0:30:25 > 0:30:28With so many objections to the development,
0:30:28 > 0:30:31Andy is visiting neighbours to get their viewpoint.
0:30:31 > 0:30:34- Hi, Miss Hollywood. - Hi. Are you all right?
0:30:34 > 0:30:36Geraldine Hollywood's Victorian terrace
0:30:36 > 0:30:38backs onto the potential site.
0:30:40 > 0:30:42Are they going to knock this down?
0:30:42 > 0:30:44Because this is part of my garden.
0:30:44 > 0:30:48Right, anything on their side of the boundary, they are removing, yes.
0:30:48 > 0:30:51- So, is this brick wall going? - So if this is...
0:30:51 > 0:30:53if it is your brick wall,
0:30:53 > 0:30:56- then they would have to get your permission to remove it.- Right.
0:30:56 > 0:31:01If it is their brick wall, they could replace it with a fence of some description or they could retain it.
0:31:01 > 0:31:03Well, I've got planting and everything there
0:31:03 > 0:31:06that's been established for eight years and I'm not happy about that.
0:31:06 > 0:31:08That's the reason we planned our garden
0:31:08 > 0:31:12around this. And there's no way I'm having my garden removed.
0:31:14 > 0:31:17That wisteria on that wall there, growing along there,
0:31:17 > 0:31:20it's taken eight years for it to flower.
0:31:20 > 0:31:22And I'm not having some developer wreck it.
0:31:26 > 0:31:30Objectors don't always have the same reasons to oppose a development.
0:31:30 > 0:31:31Next door,
0:31:31 > 0:31:34there's another neighbour spitting feathers about the application.
0:31:36 > 0:31:40This local resident has lived here for 14 years, and this new proposed
0:31:40 > 0:31:44development could overshadow the room he spends most of his time in.
0:31:44 > 0:31:46Alf loves a cup of tea.
0:31:46 > 0:31:48He really likes tea.
0:31:51 > 0:31:54Alf, do you want a cup of tea? Alfie?
0:31:54 > 0:31:57ALFIE WHISTLES
0:31:57 > 0:32:00Alfie the parrot is a big part of the Hunt family.
0:32:00 > 0:32:02Alfie?
0:32:02 > 0:32:06His mum Sandra and dad Cliff have brought him up since he was a chick.
0:32:06 > 0:32:09We've had him since he was born. He's 14 now.
0:32:11 > 0:32:13You've got to understand,
0:32:13 > 0:32:15he don't know he's a bird.
0:32:15 > 0:32:19He's an imprint, like, imprinted on us. He thinks he's a person.
0:32:19 > 0:32:23He'll tell us when he wants to go to bed. He'll say, "Going to bed,"
0:32:23 > 0:32:26and then we just cover him over and stick him in the corner.
0:32:26 > 0:32:30But the proposed development would stand more than 2m
0:32:30 > 0:32:31above the surrounding houses
0:32:31 > 0:32:35and threaten to overshadow Alfie's bright, sunny lounge.
0:32:37 > 0:32:39DOOR BELL CHIMES
0:32:39 > 0:32:41DOG BARKS
0:32:41 > 0:32:44- Hi there. You must be Cliff.- Hello. - Hello, hi, Andy from the council.
0:32:44 > 0:32:47Today, planner Andy has come to meet Cliff and Alfie
0:32:47 > 0:32:49to hear their concerns.
0:32:51 > 0:32:53So, I mean, look at the old parrot there.
0:32:53 > 0:32:55If they built 'em, he'd been in the dark all day.
0:32:55 > 0:32:58- ANDY LAUGHS - Get no sun, no natural light.
0:32:58 > 0:33:00- He hasn't written a letter in, has he?- He ain't.
0:33:02 > 0:33:06But Andy does have to seriously consider how the new houses
0:33:06 > 0:33:09would affect Cliff's right to light and privacy.
0:33:12 > 0:33:14Maybe ask the guy who wants to build them,
0:33:14 > 0:33:17- if he lived here, would he like it...- Yeah. I mean...- ..that close?
0:33:17 > 0:33:19..I do try and talk to developers and say, "Well,
0:33:19 > 0:33:22"this is how you should be designing schemes. If you wouldn't be happy,
0:33:22 > 0:33:24"then why would you be expect other neighbours to be?"
0:33:24 > 0:33:27I can understand him, you know, doing the house. That's fine.
0:33:27 > 0:33:31I can even understand these to a degree, but not as much as those.
0:33:31 > 0:33:34- He's just being greedy.- Yeah. - Just being perfectly greedy.
0:33:35 > 0:33:38Andy will now need to write a report that makes a recommendation
0:33:38 > 0:33:42to approve or refuse the potential new homes.
0:33:43 > 0:33:47Alf, say "application refused".
0:33:47 > 0:33:51Alf, say "application refused".
0:34:00 > 0:34:04In Torfaen, South Wales, plans to install galvanised railings
0:34:04 > 0:34:08in a residential area have got one couple up in arms.
0:34:08 > 0:34:12On the plans that we went to see,
0:34:12 > 0:34:13I know that looks a bit rickety,
0:34:13 > 0:34:16- but... - It's very similar to that. Gross.
0:34:16 > 0:34:19Pete and Jan Newsome believe the railings
0:34:19 > 0:34:22proposed for installation in front of their neighbour's house
0:34:22 > 0:34:25are not in keeping with the rest of the close.
0:34:25 > 0:34:28- This is our little walk that we sometimes do.- Yeah!
0:34:28 > 0:34:31Oh, I wish I'd put nail polish on now!
0:34:31 > 0:34:32THEY LAUGH
0:34:32 > 0:34:34That's about the height they're going to be.
0:34:34 > 0:34:36Rubbish.
0:34:36 > 0:34:41It's going to look like a cage. I'm going to be going, "Let me out.
0:34:41 > 0:34:43"I have done nothing wrong!"
0:34:46 > 0:34:48That's very good.
0:34:48 > 0:34:51Pete and Jan have the support of all their neighbours, but the
0:34:51 > 0:34:56applicant is a true Goliath - one of Wales' largest housing associations,
0:34:56 > 0:35:00backed up by Torfaen's planners, who are recommending approval.
0:35:00 > 0:35:01In this instance,
0:35:01 > 0:35:04the applicant and ourselves were happy
0:35:04 > 0:35:06with the solution they were putting forward.
0:35:06 > 0:35:10Railings are certainly not out of place or wouldn't be
0:35:10 > 0:35:11out of place at this location.
0:35:13 > 0:35:16But planning is a democratic process,
0:35:16 > 0:35:19and thanks to the residents' petition, the decision has now been
0:35:19 > 0:35:23passed to the 16 elected members of the planning committee.
0:35:26 > 0:35:29In Britain, the average age of a councillor is 60.
0:35:29 > 0:35:32Torfaen, however, is bucking the trend,
0:35:32 > 0:35:35with councillors as young as 26.
0:35:35 > 0:35:37Planner Norman Jones will show them around.
0:35:37 > 0:35:42OK, erm, the proposal is to replace
0:35:42 > 0:35:44the existing temporary feature,
0:35:44 > 0:35:49that you see there, by metal railings.
0:35:49 > 0:35:52Is there a reason why the wall couldn't be rebuilt?
0:35:52 > 0:35:56This is what the applicant has asked for.
0:35:56 > 0:35:58So we've got to... Yeah.
0:35:58 > 0:36:01- If you would like to see a picture of the wall...- Excuse me...
0:36:01 > 0:36:04You can't interfere with this, I'm sorry.
0:36:04 > 0:36:06- I was just trying to be of some help.- Yes.
0:36:06 > 0:36:09- Because these people are going to vote on this.- Yes, I know they are.
0:36:09 > 0:36:12Jan has fallen foul of planning protocol.
0:36:12 > 0:36:16On site visits, members of the public can't lobby the councillors.
0:36:16 > 0:36:18We can display that at committee.
0:36:18 > 0:36:20It should be displayed now,
0:36:20 > 0:36:22then you can see what's happening, how it looks as it was,
0:36:22 > 0:36:26to the rubbish that's up there at the moment and what's going on.
0:36:26 > 0:36:29But young councillor David Daniels has taken the residents' objection
0:36:29 > 0:36:34to heart and wants to know precisely what the railings will look like.
0:36:34 > 0:36:39Could we get a more detailed design, maybe some sort of similar picture?
0:36:39 > 0:36:42We haven't actually got further details, other than...
0:36:42 > 0:36:45You know, the smallest thing, like railings,
0:36:45 > 0:36:48can have quite an impact on the amenity of the area.
0:36:48 > 0:36:50You can see why...
0:36:50 > 0:36:53When you put yourself in the residents' position,
0:36:53 > 0:36:55you can see why it...how they feel.
0:36:55 > 0:36:57It's quite hard to visualise it,
0:36:57 > 0:36:59so it would be really good if we could have the design.
0:36:59 > 0:37:02OK, well, possibly, we can arrange for that...
0:37:02 > 0:37:07We did hear one young man say he wanted to know more about it
0:37:07 > 0:37:08and he wanted to see...
0:37:08 > 0:37:12We did hear that, to which we thought, you know, "Good on you."
0:37:12 > 0:37:17The final decision will be made by a democratic vote in six days' time.
0:37:17 > 0:37:20And with new drawings requested, Jan shares her new-found hope
0:37:20 > 0:37:22with another local objector.
0:37:22 > 0:37:26We just stood there in our garage, earwigging.
0:37:26 > 0:37:29It did sound as if there might be some hope.
0:37:29 > 0:37:32I've got to admit, the other day, I didn't think there was any.
0:37:32 > 0:37:34I just thought, "They're going to do it."
0:37:34 > 0:37:36But listening today, I don't know.
0:37:45 > 0:37:50165 miles east down the motorway, in Broxbourne, Hertfordshire,
0:37:50 > 0:37:52planning assistant Colin Free
0:37:52 > 0:37:55is back at the Fantozzis' proposed building site.
0:37:55 > 0:37:57But this time, he isn't alone.
0:37:58 > 0:38:00- OK, hang on, we're not all here yet. - No.
0:38:00 > 0:38:03Colin has made a recommendation for the block of eight flats to be
0:38:03 > 0:38:08approved, but it will be down to the 13 elected councillors,
0:38:08 > 0:38:11who make up the planning committee, to have the final say.
0:38:12 > 0:38:16- It's actually 24m from the rear elevation of that building.- Wow.
0:38:16 > 0:38:18Colin is showing them around the site.
0:38:18 > 0:38:23It's far better to see the site than just work from drawings and pictures.
0:38:23 > 0:38:25Basically, it gives them a chance to appraise the site
0:38:25 > 0:38:28so that, on the committee evening, they'll have a chance
0:38:28 > 0:38:33to put forward informed opinions on the application.
0:38:33 > 0:38:34So, this development,
0:38:34 > 0:38:39which part of it do you regard suits the existing buildings?
0:38:39 > 0:38:42Is it going to match in with any of the surrounding properties?
0:38:42 > 0:38:48It won't match in, no. We see it more as a landmark feature really.
0:38:48 > 0:38:51The councillors represent their voting constituents
0:38:51 > 0:38:56so the impact on the community is at the forefront of their minds.
0:38:56 > 0:39:00Sometimes it's a little difficult, when you've got houses round.
0:39:00 > 0:39:03We've got to make sure that, when it's done,
0:39:03 > 0:39:08it's not going to upset anybody and...it's done in a correct manner.
0:39:08 > 0:39:11But will the planning committee share the Fantozzis' bold vision
0:39:11 > 0:39:13for the site?
0:39:13 > 0:39:15Sometimes, you've got to take a chance
0:39:15 > 0:39:19and go with the modern developments.
0:39:19 > 0:39:21When you look at the actual building,
0:39:21 > 0:39:23you don't want to be a luddite and stick with the past.
0:39:23 > 0:39:24You've got to look to the future.
0:39:24 > 0:39:28But you don't want it to be a blot on the landscape.
0:39:28 > 0:39:30It's very easy to be traditional
0:39:30 > 0:39:34and sometimes, we need to try something that's innovative.
0:39:34 > 0:39:37So...we'll have to give it a lot of serious thought
0:39:37 > 0:39:39before we make a decision.
0:39:43 > 0:39:47In a week's time, the committee will make their ruling.
0:39:47 > 0:39:50There have been two refusals there previously.
0:39:50 > 0:39:53The design is quite contentious.
0:39:53 > 0:39:57It's too close to call, I think. I really do.
0:39:58 > 0:40:01But with £120,000 at stake,
0:40:01 > 0:40:03are Toni and Joe Fantozzi feeling lucky?
0:40:05 > 0:40:06Out of 100, I'd say...
0:40:06 > 0:40:1098%, it's going through.
0:40:10 > 0:40:12That's how confident I feel.
0:40:19 > 0:40:20In Slad, Gloucestershire,
0:40:20 > 0:40:23it's decision day for developer Paul Blakey.
0:40:23 > 0:40:27Paul has planning permission to build a two-storey house,
0:40:27 > 0:40:30but he's now applied for permission to build a three-storey property
0:40:30 > 0:40:32that he hopes to sell for over £1 million.
0:40:35 > 0:40:38Well, I hope the committee members approve it.
0:40:38 > 0:40:40When all's said and done, all it is
0:40:40 > 0:40:44is a four-bedroom house with a double garage on an acre plot.
0:40:44 > 0:40:46It's not a ten-bedroom mansion.
0:40:46 > 0:40:50So...I can't see what the issue is, personally.
0:40:51 > 0:40:53Next-door neighbours Rod and Terry Clifford
0:40:53 > 0:40:56think the new proposed house is too tall for the acre plot
0:40:56 > 0:40:59and have been battling for months to get the plans refused.
0:41:00 > 0:41:07At the end of the day, we believe our objections are correct and...
0:41:07 > 0:41:10We just hope the right decision is made for the village.
0:41:10 > 0:41:13- I suppose that's the bottom line. - Yeah.
0:41:13 > 0:41:15The planning committee meets every month
0:41:15 > 0:41:17in the main council chamber.
0:41:17 > 0:41:19It's now up to them to decide
0:41:19 > 0:41:22whether or not Paul's new proposed house can go ahead.
0:41:22 > 0:41:26Is there anyone who wishes to speak opposing the application?
0:41:26 > 0:41:29The planners have recommended approval,
0:41:29 > 0:41:31but this is Rod's chance to convince the councillors
0:41:31 > 0:41:33to refuse planning permission.
0:41:35 > 0:41:38- It's the next one, I think.- Sorry.
0:41:38 > 0:41:41That's the one with the tick on it, that's the one that works.
0:41:42 > 0:41:48We believe that the current proposal by the speculative builder
0:41:48 > 0:41:52has resulted in an oversized, imposing building
0:41:52 > 0:41:57which will dominate the gateway to this village.
0:41:57 > 0:42:02Mr Blakey will develop the site and then move on.
0:42:02 > 0:42:06The villagers have to live with whatever he leaves behind.
0:42:06 > 0:42:08Thank you very much for your time.
0:42:11 > 0:42:14Developer Paul has heard Rod's objections.
0:42:14 > 0:42:16How is he going to answer them?
0:42:19 > 0:42:21Good evening. Oh, I press this...
0:42:21 > 0:42:23Good evening, my name's Paul Blakey.
0:42:23 > 0:42:26I've listened to the objections and, basically,
0:42:26 > 0:42:29they're talking a load of nonsense.
0:42:29 > 0:42:35The building is narrower, it is lower and further back on the site.
0:42:35 > 0:42:39So where they're objecting to is beyond me.
0:42:39 > 0:42:41So that's really all I've got to say, really.
0:42:46 > 0:42:49The councillors start to debate.
0:42:50 > 0:42:54I appreciate it's got a large, um...square footage,
0:42:54 > 0:42:57but it is on three floors and that's what makes it up.
0:42:57 > 0:43:00I don't think the massing of it is that much more significant
0:43:00 > 0:43:01that the extant permission anyway,
0:43:01 > 0:43:05which is the reason that I think it should be supported.
0:43:05 > 0:43:08You could have got 12 houses in there, if you wanted to,
0:43:08 > 0:43:10and you've got one house.
0:43:10 > 0:43:14I do find difficulty voting for it, chair - thank you.
0:43:17 > 0:43:19Any other members' questions?
0:43:19 > 0:43:22In that case, would somebody like to make a proposal, please?
0:43:22 > 0:43:24Councillor Jones?
0:43:24 > 0:43:27I propose we go with the officer's recommendation.
0:43:27 > 0:43:30Therefore, we go to the vote.
0:43:30 > 0:43:31All those in favour, please show.
0:43:33 > 0:43:34All those against?
0:43:36 > 0:43:39That is carried, thank you.
0:43:39 > 0:43:43So with six votes to four, developer Paul's plans are approved
0:43:43 > 0:43:47and now he can finally start to build his three-storey house.
0:43:49 > 0:43:54I shook his hand at the end of it because he's won and we didn't.
0:43:54 > 0:43:56Obviously disappointed.
0:43:57 > 0:43:59I just think it's a sad day for Slad.
0:44:01 > 0:44:03I'm just pleased it did go my way,
0:44:03 > 0:44:08because it really has been a painful experience,
0:44:08 > 0:44:09to be honest.
0:44:09 > 0:44:14Um...and it does actually put a sour taste in your mouth
0:44:14 > 0:44:16when I've still got to build the house.
0:44:16 > 0:44:21Obviously, I'm a developer and I've got to make a crust.
0:44:21 > 0:44:22It's as simple as that, you know?
0:44:22 > 0:44:25But it's more than making a crust, isn't it?
0:44:25 > 0:44:27I don't know... How do you mean, "more than making a crust"?
0:44:27 > 0:44:29Good night. Thank you.
0:44:29 > 0:44:30Well, you wanted to buy it, didn't you?
0:44:30 > 0:44:33- Yes, we did.- Why didn't you buy it?
0:44:33 > 0:44:35We wanted to buy it as a family home.
0:44:35 > 0:44:38- Why didn't you buy it? - Because we couldn't afford it, OK?
0:44:38 > 0:44:40Well, that...that's your answer, then.
0:44:40 > 0:44:42That's fine. OK.
0:44:42 > 0:44:45I've got the money to do it.
0:44:45 > 0:44:47Money talks, as you've told us.
0:44:47 > 0:44:49No, it doesn't talk.
0:44:52 > 0:44:56I've no idea. I...I've no idea what he's talking about.
0:44:56 > 0:44:59He said that he was there to make profit,
0:44:59 > 0:45:01and I said, "Yes, excessive."
0:45:05 > 0:45:07OK? Good night. Thank you.
0:45:09 > 0:45:11I told him that, basically,
0:45:11 > 0:45:15in all the years that I've been building,
0:45:15 > 0:45:20um...I've never been beaten on a planning application.
0:45:20 > 0:45:22And that is still to date - I never have.
0:45:23 > 0:45:27I'm going home, now, and I'm going to have a glass of wine. Goodbye.
0:45:29 > 0:45:32It was a big property,
0:45:32 > 0:45:34but as we all know, size does matter.
0:45:42 > 0:45:46In Torfaen, South Wales, councillors are gathering
0:45:46 > 0:45:50to debate the 12.5m of steel railings
0:45:50 > 0:45:53that threaten to tarnish Pete and Jan Newsome's dreams
0:45:53 > 0:45:54of a happy retirement.
0:45:57 > 0:45:59We just want kick these railings out
0:45:59 > 0:46:01and have our little wall back, please.
0:46:01 > 0:46:04The planners have approved the application
0:46:04 > 0:46:08but every resident is against it, so Jan and Pete believe
0:46:08 > 0:46:10the councillors should do them justice.
0:46:11 > 0:46:13We've done our best.
0:46:13 > 0:46:18We hope that the committee will see sense and reason
0:46:18 > 0:46:21and do the right thing.
0:46:21 > 0:46:24If it goes against us, I could probably kill somebody.
0:46:26 > 0:46:2826-year-old Councillor Daniels
0:46:28 > 0:46:30requested better drawings from the applicant,
0:46:30 > 0:46:33one of Wales' largest housing associations.
0:46:33 > 0:46:35But will the sketches convince the committee
0:46:35 > 0:46:37to rally against the railings?
0:46:37 > 0:46:39In support of the application, I have prepared some sketches.
0:46:39 > 0:46:42It does give you quite a good view of what it would look like
0:46:42 > 0:46:44if you had this wall.
0:46:44 > 0:46:46What we do propose, effectively,
0:46:46 > 0:46:49the new railings offer a visually acceptable solution
0:46:49 > 0:46:51and one that's very practical.
0:46:57 > 0:47:01Before the committee can vote, one councillor must now come out
0:47:01 > 0:47:03either in support or against the railings.
0:47:04 > 0:47:06I will ask for a motion now.
0:47:10 > 0:47:13I move that we accept the officer's recommendations.
0:47:13 > 0:47:16Unexpectedly, after seeing the new drawings,
0:47:16 > 0:47:20Councillor Daniels now wants to approve the new railings.
0:47:20 > 0:47:22All right. Is there a seconder?
0:47:22 > 0:47:24That's been seconded.
0:47:24 > 0:47:27Right. Could we have a show of hands?
0:47:31 > 0:47:34- Those against?- Two against.
0:47:34 > 0:47:36Two against. That application has been approved.
0:47:44 > 0:47:46It was biased for the railings.
0:47:47 > 0:47:51When they put the railings up, they'd done it in such a way
0:47:51 > 0:47:56that the picture, actually, it looked quite nice.
0:47:56 > 0:48:00Then they put the wall up and it was just a blank of white
0:48:00 > 0:48:02and we went...
0:48:02 > 0:48:07"Well, that looks awful. I wouldn't even vote for that."
0:48:07 > 0:48:08We knew we'd lost.
0:48:09 > 0:48:13Despite every household in the close being against the railings,
0:48:13 > 0:48:17their elective representatives have given them the green light.
0:48:17 > 0:48:20Well, a diplomatic dictatorship. That's the only way to describe it.
0:48:20 > 0:48:24We voted them in, but we have no say on what they do after that.
0:48:24 > 0:48:27They obviously do not care what the residents think at all.
0:48:35 > 0:48:37Over in Cheshunt, Hertfordshire,
0:48:37 > 0:48:41a development to create seven much-needed new homes
0:48:41 > 0:48:44has been ruffling feathers with one local resident
0:48:44 > 0:48:47who thinks their light will be blocked...
0:48:47 > 0:48:48He won't be too happy, the old boy.
0:48:48 > 0:48:51He'll probably have to live out in the garden to try and get some light.
0:48:51 > 0:48:52- PARROT:- Hello, Alf!
0:48:52 > 0:48:56..and another whose walled garden is under threat.
0:48:56 > 0:48:58If they touch that wall, that's all gone.
0:48:58 > 0:49:01And I will kill them if they touch my brick wall.
0:49:01 > 0:49:03I will, honestly.
0:49:06 > 0:49:09But before planner Andy can make his recommendation,
0:49:09 > 0:49:12the site also needs to be assessed by the Highways Department.
0:49:14 > 0:49:16Highways officer Matt Armstrong
0:49:16 > 0:49:18works closely with the planning office
0:49:18 > 0:49:21to determine what effect any new development will have
0:49:21 > 0:49:24on the local road network.
0:49:24 > 0:49:25Yeah, I'm a qualified planner.
0:49:25 > 0:49:29I have to try and be really careful in my job
0:49:29 > 0:49:30not to do the planner's job.
0:49:30 > 0:49:34My role is to look purely at the highway implications.
0:49:34 > 0:49:36Nothing more, nothing less.
0:49:38 > 0:49:42Today, Matt is assessing site access and parking provision.
0:49:44 > 0:49:47Can you...film this again?
0:49:47 > 0:49:49These are always really difficult to get on.
0:49:49 > 0:49:52His report could make or break the planning application.
0:49:55 > 0:49:58I mean, you get all sorts of parking here.
0:49:58 > 0:50:02So you've got parking on top of the road humps, you've got parking
0:50:02 > 0:50:06up on the footway, you've got parking up on the grass verges.
0:50:06 > 0:50:10It's just not... It's just not good as it currently stands.
0:50:10 > 0:50:13And, yeah, I wouldn't want this development to make it any worse.
0:50:15 > 0:50:20This application has five proposed flats and two proposed houses
0:50:20 > 0:50:24but the developer has only allowed room for three parking spaces.
0:50:27 > 0:50:29This happens quite a lot and the problem is it, you know,
0:50:29 > 0:50:31churns up the grass verge.
0:50:31 > 0:50:34On the opposite side of the road, people are right onto the footway
0:50:34 > 0:50:38as well, which really restricts its width so that impedes pedestrians.
0:50:38 > 0:50:39It's really not good.
0:50:39 > 0:50:42Given the fact they're only providing three on-site parking spaces,
0:50:42 > 0:50:44I think that's too little. They should be looking, here,
0:50:44 > 0:50:48at about 10 or 11 spaces that they should provide.
0:50:48 > 0:50:51The public highway will be expected to take the shortfall
0:50:51 > 0:50:56and that will exacerbate the problem with roadside parking even more.
0:50:56 > 0:50:59So, on that basis, I will be recommending refusal.
0:51:01 > 0:51:03I don't think he likes the look of me, does he?
0:51:03 > 0:51:05Maybe he's in favour of the development.
0:51:05 > 0:51:07Perhaps he thinks there's enough parking.
0:51:10 > 0:51:13But planner Andy is under pressure to provide
0:51:13 > 0:51:14new housing for the borough.
0:51:14 > 0:51:17So does he agree with Matt's recommendation?
0:51:18 > 0:51:19I am, on this occasion,
0:51:19 > 0:51:26recommending refusal of this scheme for a total of six different reasons.
0:51:26 > 0:51:32This includes invasion of privacy, lack of parking and over-sizing.
0:51:33 > 0:51:36I simply think that the applicant, on this occasion,
0:51:36 > 0:51:43is proposing too much built form for the site and that all has
0:51:43 > 0:51:46further wide-reaching implications in terms of neighbours.
0:51:49 > 0:51:51So, for now,
0:51:51 > 0:51:55Geraldine Hollywood's precious wall and wisteria are safe...
0:51:55 > 0:51:57I was so worried.
0:51:57 > 0:51:59So worried.
0:51:59 > 0:52:03But now I can keep everything the way it is and I'm over the moon.
0:52:04 > 0:52:09..and Alfie the parrot's favourite room remains unchanged.
0:52:09 > 0:52:13Have a cup of tea and celebrate the old refusal.
0:52:13 > 0:52:15There you are.
0:52:15 > 0:52:17Everyone should get a parrot.
0:52:17 > 0:52:20If they've got any planning issues, let the parrot sort it out for them.
0:52:20 > 0:52:22- PARROT:- Application refused.
0:52:28 > 0:52:32Less than a mile down the road, it's a big day for the Fantozzis.
0:52:34 > 0:52:38After a two-year battle and two attempts to get permission,
0:52:38 > 0:52:41there's only a few hours left until the planning committee decides
0:52:41 > 0:52:45whether Joe and Toni's block of flats will finally get built.
0:52:46 > 0:52:49It's very important it goes my way tonight...
0:52:49 > 0:52:51Our way, should I say?
0:52:53 > 0:52:55..for the simple reason of the amount of time
0:52:55 > 0:52:57and the amount of money we've pumped into this.
0:52:58 > 0:53:04As I said, it's just over 100K and I need to go forward now.
0:53:04 > 0:53:05I need to go forward with this project.
0:53:05 > 0:53:10It's been delayed, in and out, in and out of the council so many times.
0:53:10 > 0:53:14I can't mess about now. It's our livelihood.
0:53:14 > 0:53:18And, not only that, it's just a block of eight flats -
0:53:18 > 0:53:21I'm not putting a nuclear power station anywhere.
0:53:29 > 0:53:33Colin has recommended approval for the eight flats.
0:53:33 > 0:53:35It could go either way.
0:53:35 > 0:53:41It... It could be unanimously passed, it could be unanimously thrown out.
0:53:42 > 0:53:46But the locals think the design is out of keeping with the area.
0:53:46 > 0:53:51If I was a betting man, I'd say it was a 50/50 at the moment.
0:53:51 > 0:53:53So we'll keep our fingers crossed.
0:53:53 > 0:53:56Yeah, I don't feel so confident as I did last time at all.
0:53:56 > 0:53:58Anyway, I'd better get in, I suppose, cos
0:53:58 > 0:53:59otherwise I won't get a seat.
0:54:01 > 0:54:04The objectors need detailed reasons to support their case
0:54:04 > 0:54:08and they're putting their argument in the hands of
0:54:08 > 0:54:11telecoms cable planner Cliff Stapleton.
0:54:11 > 0:54:13Good evening, Mr Chairman, members of the committee.
0:54:13 > 0:54:15This new proposal has been
0:54:15 > 0:54:16described by the developer
0:54:16 > 0:54:19and the borough planning department as being a landmark building.
0:54:20 > 0:54:23There has been 84 letters of objection to this development
0:54:23 > 0:54:25received by the council,
0:54:25 > 0:54:28which shows the strength of local feeling against this scheme.
0:54:28 > 0:54:31The design contravenes the council's own planning policies
0:54:31 > 0:54:36H8, H11, HD13, HD14, HD16 and T3
0:54:36 > 0:54:38and we hope this will be taken into account
0:54:38 > 0:54:40when you make your decision. Thank you.
0:54:44 > 0:54:47With a strong case proposed for refusal,
0:54:47 > 0:54:50the Fantozzis have decided to let the paid professional,
0:54:50 > 0:54:54architect Luigi Bille, try to match it.
0:54:54 > 0:54:56Mr Chairman, honourable
0:54:56 > 0:54:59ladies and gentleman of the committee...
0:54:59 > 0:55:03But he waits until his allotted time is nearly over to address
0:55:03 > 0:55:05the controversial matter of the design.
0:55:06 > 0:55:14Finally, I'd like to refer to
0:55:14 > 0:55:18the Dutch barn, as depicted by the locals,
0:55:18 > 0:55:21which is not really a Dutch barn but it is the English barn.
0:55:21 > 0:55:23There are many examples in the country
0:55:23 > 0:55:27and I've got a document here that I'd like to circulate,
0:55:27 > 0:55:31if you want to know about the Dutch barn, but it is the English barn.
0:55:31 > 0:55:34You have to wrap up now, I'm afraid.
0:55:34 > 0:55:37Anyway, the scheme is compliant.
0:55:37 > 0:55:42I think, you know, I trust that that is sufficient
0:55:42 > 0:55:44for you to grant planning permission. Thank you.
0:55:49 > 0:55:51I'll now throw it open to the members.
0:55:51 > 0:55:54I don't think people will say, as they drive past,
0:55:54 > 0:55:56"What a wonderful building."
0:55:56 > 0:55:58It's not a very pretty sight, to be honest.
0:55:58 > 0:56:01I actually think it's an ugly building, to tell you the truth.
0:56:01 > 0:56:04I commend this chap for actually trying to put something that's
0:56:04 > 0:56:09worthwhile there but I don't think this plan has got quite there yet.
0:56:09 > 0:56:12I think he needs to come back and work on it a little bit more.
0:56:12 > 0:56:14APPLAUSE
0:56:16 > 0:56:19Contemporary designs are very subjective.
0:56:19 > 0:56:22If you actually look at that area,
0:56:22 > 0:56:25there's a lot of Victorian, Edwardian houses
0:56:25 > 0:56:29and they've become timeless so I do think that it could be redesigned.
0:56:29 > 0:56:32So I would recommend refusal.
0:56:32 > 0:56:34APPLAUSE
0:56:38 > 0:56:42If there are no other speakers, it has been moved for refusal.
0:56:42 > 0:56:46All those in favour of refusal, please show.
0:56:49 > 0:56:51Against.
0:56:51 > 0:56:53That has been carried for refusal.
0:56:53 > 0:56:54APPLAUSE
0:57:00 > 0:57:03The council has dismissed the planners' recommendation
0:57:03 > 0:57:06and it's a third victory for the local objectors.
0:57:07 > 0:57:11Satisfied. We've done it again. Mind you, they'll apply again, probably.
0:57:11 > 0:57:14Hopefully they'll come up with a reasonable scheme next time.
0:57:14 > 0:57:16Let's go and crack open the champagne now, eh?
0:57:16 > 0:57:17Yeah, let's go down the pub.
0:57:18 > 0:57:19Yeah, frustrated a little bit
0:57:19 > 0:57:22because it keeps going in and out, in and out, in and out and...
0:57:22 > 0:57:25HE SIGHS
0:57:25 > 0:57:26..when's it all going to stop?
0:57:26 > 0:57:31So now I'll have to go back to the drawing board and speak to Luigi,
0:57:31 > 0:57:35speak to the building consultant, see which way we are going to move now.
0:57:35 > 0:57:38Today didn't go well for the Fantozzis
0:57:38 > 0:57:41but this isn't necessarily the end of the road
0:57:41 > 0:57:43for their block of flats.
0:57:43 > 0:57:46There's always a chance the developer will go away and appeal.
0:57:46 > 0:57:50Either that or he'll go away, have a rethink, lick his wounds and he's
0:57:50 > 0:57:55welcome to come to us with the next lot of pre-application discussions.
0:57:55 > 0:58:02We're always here, 9-5 weekdays, 9-1 Saturdays, with an open ear.
0:58:02 > 0:58:05Next time, a planner has a dilemma...
0:58:05 > 0:58:08My decision could be the ceasing of his business.
0:58:08 > 0:58:12..an applicant puts his plans in the hands of a higher authority...
0:58:12 > 0:58:17I'm not in control, planners are not in control - God is in control.
0:58:17 > 0:58:19..and an objector looks on the bright side.
0:58:19 > 0:58:23I might come and look at Jacuzzi Suzie with her top off
0:58:23 > 0:58:26and say, "I've got a perfect right to be stood here looking at you, love."