DC Casebook: Listed Buildings - Plastic door ruled out at listed cottage

Planning, 9 May 2008

The appeal property was one of a row of cottages that faced a canal. They had a largely unaltered appearance and all other doors were made of timber. The appellant contended that she needed a UPVC door because of her disability. A timber door would be less effective in maintaining her security, preventing draughts and avoiding the risk of jamming, she argued.

The inspector judged that the replacement door undermined the historic character of the terrace. She agreed that a personal permission may be granted for a limited period in cases that raise strong compassionate or other grounds. She also accepted that the appellant's desire for independent living justified this approach, as long as the door was carefully crafted to minimise visual harm. In her view, the UPVC door failed to achieve this objective and its adverse impact had to carry overriding weight.

DCS Number 100-054-450

Inspector Sue Turner; Hearing.