Clair Birch, 59, built the two-storey structure in the back garden of her Worcester home to enable her disabled daughter to live more independently. The annexe replaced an existing garage and outbuilding.
Plans for the one-bedroom annexe were retrospectively submitted to Worcester City Council in March 2025. The council refused the application in November 2025, and a subsequent appeal was dismissed on February 16. A further appeal to extend the compliance period for demolition was heard on August 12 but was also dismissed.
The Planning Inspectorate ruled that six months is an adequate timeframe for the demolition or modification of the structure. Birch has been given until February 2027 to comply with the order.
Birch stated she had believed all necessary paperwork had been submitted and that the building was constructed in good faith. She noted that her daughter has a phobia of being on the ground floor at night, necessitating the second floor. Birch also mentioned that neighbors were aware of the project from its inception and that the building is connected to the main house, questioning its status as a separate dwelling.
Neighbors, however, complained that the annexe appeared without planning permission and is situated very close to their properties. One described it as a "building within a building" that overhangs their property, causing damage that remains unrepaired. Another resident referred to it as "the big house" and expressed concern about privacy due to the windows overlooking neighboring gardens. Some neighbors suggested it was built quickly, possibly with the intention of avoiding rejection, and one noted it was listed as an Airbnb on a planning application at one point.
Planning inspector Sarah Hanson acknowledged Birch's concerns regarding her daughter's accommodation needs but stated that personal circumstances do not alter the planning merits of the development. Hanson concluded that the required works are straightforward and can reasonably be undertaken within six months, but noted that the local planning authority has the ability to extend the compliance period if necessary.