Couple's swimming pool appeal turned down from on high

PLANNING INSPECTOR SAYS GARDEN FEATURE WOULD 'ERODE THE TRANQUILITY' OF NEARBY CHURCH

- By HANNAH BROWN Local democracy reporter

A COUPLE have been blocked from building a new swimming pool in their garden over concerns it could impact a neighbouring church.

A planning inspector raised concerns that people using the pool would create “additional noise and disturbance”, which they said could “erode the tranquillity” of the church.

Plans for the pool were originally put forward by Mr and Mrs Fieldhouse, who asked South Cambridgeshire District Council for permission to build the 4 x 11m below ground pool in the garden of their home in Church Lane, Little Eversden. The couple also proposed for an electric roller cover to be installed over the pool.

The district council refused to grant planning permission for the pool, arguing it would harm the character of the house and impact a neighbouring church.

The decision notice said: “The proposed below-ground swimming pool together with an electric roller cover, by virtue of its location, form and detailed design would harm the character and appearance of the host building and the surrounding area including the setting and significance of the adjacent heritage asset of the Grade II* listed asset of St Helen's Church.