Unrealistic architects' drawings

[Stillnoeyedear]

Just having a rant - neighbours' planning permission was granted so there is nothing I can do, but architects' drawings gave no idea of the height/size of the decking nor how overlooked we would be. We didn't object, as we didn't realise how intrusive it would be but now it is built, I just want to cry - neighbours can see straight into our garden and we have no privacy. We can't put up a higher fence or trellis, and can only have plants in pots so can't grow them that tall. I am probably over-reacting but now dread going into my own garden as I know they can see and hear everything we do!

I'm not sure there's anything you can do to lodge a complaint now that the application has been granted, but have you tried having a conversation with your neighbour about how this has impacted you? They might be amenable to you finding a solution together.

Have you checked the decking is in line with the plans? Bamboo in pots can easily get 8-10ft tall

Thanks for replying. I haven't spoken to them yet as I don't have any ideas for how it can be resolved and don't want to come across as just complaining! The architects' drawings/plans don't look anything like what has been built, but there are no measurements etc on the drawings so it is not clear whether it is in line with the plans. I didn't realise bamboo could grow that high in pots but will definitely look into getting some!

We only have access to the plans on the Planning Portal and they don't include any measurements/scale and the drawings seem deceptive in that they may it all look smaller than it is in real life. The decking does seem to be at about the height indicated on the drawings (maybe a few inches higher), judging by a particular point on the house, but the ground level of the garden (it is a slightly sloping plot) has been show as being much higher than it actually is, if that makes any kind of sense? So the overall structure is much bigger than we thought it would be. But I guess that is our fault for not realising this from the plans.

This is probably massively outing (but they don't have kids, so hopefully aren't on MN!) but it is also drawn as a small walkway with steps down, running all the way along, but it has been built more as a larger platform at the highest point, with steps just in one small section in the middle. But maybe that is allowed? I am not sure how closely the builders have to stick to the drawings.

Another vote for bamboo in pots on slabs so no risk of invasive escape, friends did it for the same reasons. It's at least 12ft tall, densely planted and screens completely all year round.

A raised decking structure requires planning. And they aren't just allowed to change what is shown on their planning drawings.

I would try speaking to the planning officer who dealt with it.