PLANNING chiefs reached a conclusion on a case described as “one of the most difficult” to ever come before the committee.

Councillors were once again asked to settle a dispute between two neighbours in Old Quarry Lane, Egerton, regarding plans to build a large single-storey extension to house a disabled 18-year-old boy.

The application had already twice been deferred by the committee because residents at a neighbouring property have objected to the plans — stating that the extension would have a harmful impact on a resident who is also disabled and has a terminal illness.

It is suggested that the building would overshadow the garden of the resident which he uses for spending time in the sunshine — something which helps with his symptoms.

Committee members were angry to find out that the measurements for the proposed extension had changed since the application came before them last month.

Speaking at the meeting, a carer for the teenager said this change was prompted by his sudden growth.

She said: “We have looked at so many ways to minimise the space but since we last came to the committee he has had a massive growth spurt and we had to review his needs.”

Committee member Norman Critchley said the changed plans were a “sad reflection” on the professional advice the family had taken on the plans.

He said: It frightens me that we were asked to make a decision on a design and now three months down the line the dimensions have increased — what would have happened if we had given permission last time?”

Cllr Nick Peel agreed, adding: “It is worrying that the health professionals involved didn’t see this coming.

“This is one of the most difficult applications I can remember ever coming to the committee, we are trying to find a better solution for the 18-year old while simultaneously satisfying the tight needs of the neighbour — it is incredibly difficult.”

Paul Finch, speaking on behalf of the objecting neighbours, said: “I agree there is a need for the young man, but there is also a need for his neighbour, who also has a disability — I think in some ways that is being ignored.”

In the end, the committee agreed to grant permission for the extension in principle, but to delegate the decision to the planning director, who must make sure that the measurements of the building are correct before any building work proceeds.