Developer's Mansion Plan Rejected for Third Time in Exclusive Sandbanks

A property developer's bid to replace a £825,000 chalet bungalow with a three-storey mansion in the affluent Sandbanks area has been refused for the third time. Businessman Mark Perkins sought to demolish the existing property and construct a flat-roofed home, a plan that has faced strong opposition from his immediate neighbors, Lesley and Robert Jefferies.

The Jefferieses, whose home shares a wall and driveway with the bungalow, argued that the proposed development would significantly overshadow their property, block sunlight, and compromise their privacy. Despite Mr. Perkins commissioning an 'overshadowing report' intended to demonstrate compliance with sunlight requirements, the local planning committee unanimously voted against the proposal.

Concerns raised by the Jefferieses included the report's limited scope, relying on data from a single sunny day and not accounting for seasonal variations in the sun's path. They expressed fears of being 'hemmed in on all sides' and losing valuable light and privacy. The existing shared access driveway also presented a logistical challenge, particularly for Mrs. Jefferies, who requires 24-hour access due to a health condition.

Mr. Perkins purchased the property approximately four years ago after the previous owner, a long-time resident, passed away. His latest plans included separating the new three-bedroom property from the adjacent home and making good the shared wall. If approved, the new mansion, situated near Sandbanks beach, was estimated to be worth over £2 million.

Previous applications were denied in February and July. Although planning officers this time recommended approval, citing revised plans that mitigated the impact on the Jefferies' property, councilors remained unconvinced. Councilor Peter Sidaway noted the 'overbearing nature' of the development, stating it did not sufficiently address their concerns. Other councilors highlighted the inherent difficulties for the neighboring residents, regardless of the building's specific design.

The decision comes as new planning rules are set to take effect at the end of the month, which will shift the decision-making authority for individual house applications from planning committees to officers. This change means future similar applications may not undergo the same level of public scrutiny by elected officials.