- Decision
- dismissed, 25 August 2026
- Decided by
- Planning Inspector: F Leung
- Authority
- Waltham Forest (London)
- Appeal reference
- 6006727
- Application reference
- 252833
- Procedure
- written representations
- Development
- Retrospective retention of an enlarged rear extension with altered roof to a place of worship (Hindu temple) on the local heritage list
- Site context
- inside settlement
- Green Belt
- No
- Framework applied
- August 2026 NPPF
- Determinative policies
- Waltham Forest LP Policy 53, Waltham Forest LP Policy 57
- Development plan policies
- Waltham Forest Local Plan Part 1 2020-2035 Policies 53, 57
- Main issues
- character; NDHA; living conditions
Summary
A retrospective, enlarged rear extension to a locally listed Hindu temple was dismissed. It harmed the character of the terrace and neighbours' outlook and light, although the non-designated heritage asset's significance, which lies in its frontage, was not harmed (DL 14-15, 21). The community benefit was modest (DL 27-28).
What made the difference
Depth and roof height well beyond any comparable rear addition, next to narrow neighbouring gardens.
Policy findings
Policy codes are those of the National Planning Policy Framework (August 2026) unless a development plan is named.
| Policy | Finding | Weight | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| HE7(2) | neutral | rear extension does not harm the significance of the NDHA, whose value lies in the temple frontage (DL 12-14) | |
| DP3 | conflict | boxy extension of substantial mass dominates the rear elevation, out of keeping with the terrace (DL 9-11, 15) | |
| P3 | fail | overbearing to 7 and 8 Rennes Road; shadow study inadequate (DL 16-21) |
Key facts
- Framework changes 'do not fundamentally alter the relevant policy position'; no consultation (DL 7)
- PSED and Article 9 considered; dismissal proportionate (DL 26-30)
Sources
This note is one of the decisions behind the NPPF 2026 Navigator, which shows how each Framework test has been applied across all the decisions in the database. Also available as Markdown.