Private amenity space requirements for residential extensions

Amenity space is an essential part of the character and quality of the environment of residential properties. It is important therefore to ensure, when bringing forward a proposal to extend a property that adequate amenity space – particularly private amenity space – remains. Garden space around a residential property is an integral part of its character and appearance and should not be reduced to a point where it is out of scale or fails to meet the present and future occupiers need for adequate useable private amenity space. All residential properties require some in-curtilage private open space, usually to the rear, compatible with the overall size of the plot, for normal domestic activities, such as bin storage, clothes drying, sitting out and play space. This space should enjoy a high degree of privacy from the public street and any other public spaces. The level of private open space for new residential property is detailed in the 'Creating Places' design guide.