Local anger over broadcaster's plan to build two-storey house in his garden

A plan by broadcaster Jamie Theakston to build a two-storey house in the back garden of his Barrowgate Road home has annoyed some of his neighbours.

The building at the bottom of his very large garden was formerly a coach house which was originally the home of Queen Victoria's undertaker, according to locals.

One argument is that the proposed development would harm the character of the Conservation Area.

Nine letters of objection have now been received by Hounslow Council's Planning Department which is still considering the planning application.

The planning application lodged with Hounslow Council is for the erection of a two storey house at 31. Barrowgate Road with habitable rooms within the roof space, with associated parking, cycle and bin storage to the rear.

The television presenter, producer, and actor is best known for hosting Top of the Pops, co-hosting the breakfast show with Emma Bunton on Heart FM and also for narrating the BBC documentary series Traffic Cops and Motorway Cops.

Objections lodged include that this is over development/inappropriate backland development, that it will cause parking pressures or congestion, creates an unacceptable precedent, mean the loss of an existing garage/coach house, and will harm the character and appearance of the Conservation Area.

Locals have brought their concerns to Chiswick councillors. The planning application will be 'called in' for discussion at next Tuesday's (September 26) meeting of the Chiswick Area Forum where councillors can decide whether to refer the matter to a full Planning Committee meeting - although as of yet there is no recommendation from Planning Officials.

September 25, 2017