Grounds for objecting to neighbour's planning application

[MeridasMum]

NDN have applied for planning approval of a single story extension to the rear of their house and I've received the notice today.

We're friendly enough; socialise from time to time, chat over the hedge, our DDs play together, etc so I'd like to remain on good terms.

However, their proposed extension will (I think) impact on our light but, more importantly, our privacy.

Their proposed new room will be able to look directly into one of our rooms. It means I'd have to plant trees/bushes to grow to approx 20 feet, given the elevation of the rooms. if I'd wanted 20-foot bushes in that particular part of my garden, I'd have planted them when we moved in 5 years ago!

Is this grounds for objecting? Or should I suck it up for the sake of neighbourly relations? We're both planning on living next door to each other for a long time

I think I’d just start closing the curtains on that one window and not worry too much about it!

It sounds like the window distance means that the proposed design will breach your local authority's planning rules, which means the LA will automatically reject/ask them to redesign/obscure the glass without you needing to object. I would be tempted to sit tight and let the process take its course.

@YoungGiftedPlump I know, seems a lot. Wouldn't want to live in new build land where I live. We are lucky to have 18 inches between windows.

I think you can object. They have remained friendly and kept their application separate and not approached you first. Mirror that approach - Smile, remain friends, and send an objection.