Planning permission for a new house in Moor Park, which was refused by Three Rivers District Council, has been granted at an appeal.

The development in Astons Road involved the demolition of number 35 and erection of a two-storey house with basement swimming pool, rear terraces, and another room in the roof space.

Farouq Sheikh appealed to the government's planning inspectorate after the council refused permission on October 26 last year, based on the effect the development would have on the character and appearance of the Moor Park Conservation Area.

Christopher Bowden, inspector, said: “No 35 has been altered and extended over the years.

“The character and appearance of the original house have been fundamentally altered, the changes made have resulted in a bulky, sprawling and incoherent building.

"It does not make a positive contribution to the character or appearance of the conservation area.

“The proposed house would be a relatively plain and simple, but well articulated, building that would complement rather than compete with neighbouring houses.

"It would be an improvement on the existing house and a positive contribution to the conservation area.”