Concerns over plans to build house on tennis court

A proposal to build a three-bedroom home on land currently used for a private tennis court has received 30 objections from neighbours.

Under the plans, a family home would be built on the land that backs onto the garden of a Chantry View Road property in Guildford by the owner of the property.

Objectors said it would be "cramped and incongruous" and would change the character of the area with a "dense" design and modern aesthetic.

Councillors will decide on the scheme can go ahead at a planning committee meeting on 21 May, with officers recommending approval, reports the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

One couple complained the proposed house would "destroy the unique ambiance of the area" and would "tower over what is now a pleasant area", with a "devastating impact on surrounding neighbours' privacy".

A woman who has lived on Chantry View Road for 26 years said it is "ridiculous to squeeze three houses into one plot and will set a dangerous precedent" for future developments.

Another of the 30 objectors said: "The proposed house remains excessively large for the site, creating a development that is cramped and incompatible with its surroundings".

The applicant envisions the part of the 0.8 acre (0.32 hectares) front garden to become a two-storey home with an upper terrace, accessed via the existing driveway which serves both number 13 and 15 Chantry View Road.

Planning documents read: "Whilst the resulting development would occupy one of the smaller plots along Chantry View Road, when viewed in the context of the existing plot at no.13, it would not appear unduly cramped or out of character in the surrounding area."

Planning permission was rejected in April 2023 on the grounds the proposed home would be too big, overbearing and the roof would look out of character.

Follow BBC Surrey on Facebook, on X. Send your story ideas to [email protected] or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.