A planning dispute has emerged on an exclusive north London street after a homeowner constructed a roof terrace atop their £5.75 million townhouse without obtaining the necessary permits. Neighbors contend that the new terrace infringes upon their privacy, allowing views into their bedrooms and bathrooms.
The unauthorized terrace, which includes seating, a table, an umbrella, and a worktop with a sink, was completed in November 2024. The current owners, who purchased the Grade II-listed property in 2023, have since applied to Camden Council for retrospective planning permission. Their application seeks approval for the installation of a freestanding composite decking system on the existing roof.
Residents along Rothwell Street, where the average property price last year was £4.2 million, and on the nearby Regent's Park Road, where homes can fetch up to £7.5 million, have expressed strong opposition. They argue that granting permission for the decking would essentially legalize the roof area as a terrace and have urged the council to reject the plans.
Frank Lord, a 61-year-old American who moved into his townhouse on Regent's Park Road last year, has formally objected to the application. He stated that his concern escalated in April when his 31-year-old daughter reported being left in tears after needing to