🧑‍⚖️ Planning Appeals: The Golders Green Extension Challenge

Wednesday 18th June 2025

Sinclair Grove, Golders Green, NW11 9JG

The NW11 Planning Wall: When Local Character Trumps Density on Sinclair Grove

The affluent and highly desirable Golders Green area, particularly around streets like Sinclair Grove (NW11 9JG), is perpetually under pressure for extensions and loft conversions. In June 2025, a Planning Inspectorate decision to dismiss an appeal for a substantial extension on Sinclair Grove sent a clear message to builders across the borough.

The Inspector's decision—based on the new Barnet Local Plan (2025)—found that the proposed hip-to-gable and rear extensions, along with raising the ridge height, would harm the "character and appearance of the host properties and the surrounding area." This ruling highlighted the importance of preserving the rhythm and architectural impact (specifically the front bays and original setbacks) of the semi-detached street scene.

The Builder's Takeaway: This appeal dismissal confirms that in established, quality suburbs like NW11, the council is not only concerned with overlooking but with architectural integrity and subordination of the extension. The days of maxing out every possible cubic meter without careful regard for the local vernacular are over.

The Data Point: The dismissal referenced the newly adopted Barnet Local Plan 2021-2036 (BLP), showing that developers must now interpret extensions and infill against the stricter language of new policies like CDH01 (Design and Character).

Robbins Construction Ltd Opinion: We believe the push for quality design is ultimately better for Barnet and our clients. However, the interpretation of 'character' is subjective. We are advising our Golders Green clients that detailed pre-application advice and highly sensitive architectural drawings are now non-negotiable. Trying to squeeze every last bit of volume will only lead to costly appeals and significant delays to the Timeline.