A DECISION on changes to one of Winchester grandest houses have been deferred as councillors want to see it for themselves.

Joe Cooper proposes changes at Highgrove House on St Thomas Street, a Georgian grade II listed townhouse, including adding an orangery and a garage block with studio accommodation.

He bought the six-bedroom property last year for £2.85 million, according to the Land Registry.

Planning officer Michelle Thomson told the planning committee today that a key consideration was the impact of the scheme on the locality.

Cllr Barry Lipscomb voiced his worries. “I’m concerned how it fits into the garden. These city centre gardens are a hidden jewel of Winchester, beautiful in themselves. The garage block looks to me like a chalet bungalow.”

Mr Cooper’s plans have sparked 11 objections including the preservation watchdogs the City of Winchester Trust.

Michael Lawrence, of Symonds Street, said the garage would impact on his home, especially as it would probably destroy a mature beech hedge.

Mr Lawrence told the committee: “It will create an overbearing structure looking down on my house. I believe that would cause harm to the setting of a grade II listed house and other grade II listed properties in Symonds Street.”

The committee unanimously agreed they would be helped by a site visit which has been arranged for Tuesday March 24 at 9.30am.