The residents of Hounsome Fields have recently been made aware that in 2018 Permitted Development rights were withdrawn. This means that any changes to properties that would normally be permissible without planning permission such as Sheds, Decking, Greenhouses, Solar Panels and Patio extensions would require Planning permission if you live on the Hounsome Fields estate.

When residents were purchasing or renting their properties this was not highlighted by the builder or solicitors. 

We do not believe that the Permitted Development rights of residents on the Hounsome Fields Estate should be restricted. People have the right to enjoy their gardens and homes. Residents have rightly landscaped their gardens and wish to enjoy them. Others have the right to install reasonably sized sheds and outbuildings within permitted sizes without the borough council unreasonbly curbing the enjoyment of their property. Furthermore, some residents have installed Solar Panels and considering the Govt's Green policy, the council should be supporting this rather than using punitive measures towards residents.

This does not only affect the residents who have received notices from Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council. This also includes residents who may want to make changes to their hiomes and gardens in the future.

The area that the estate is situated on does not fall under Conservation area or an area of historical importance. There is no undue detriment to local residents or amenity users. We therefore believe that BDBC is being inflexible in their approach towards the residents by putting in these restrictions.

We believe that there is no public interest in restricting our Permitted Development rights. 

We call upon Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Planning officers and Councillors in using their discretionary powers to remove the restrictions on Permitted Development rights so residents can enjoy their homes and gardens.