# 271 Forest Road, Walthamstow (Hindu temple rear extension)

- **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
- **Tags:** tier-2, place-of-worship, retrospective, living-conditions, transitional-no-consultation

## 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
- **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
- https://appeal-planning-decision.service.gov.uk/comment-planning-appeal/appeals/6006727
- https://appeal-planning-decision.service.gov.uk/published-document/3648d986-f7b7-42df-b2c5-9f375addf9eb

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