A HOMEOWNER is to appeal against a council decision that could see his ‘ugly’ and ‘overbearing’ extension being pulled down.

Zuber Ismail’s backdated request for permission for the single-storey lounge behind his Pleckgate Road semi-detached house was refused at a meeting of Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council’s planning committee.

Town hall officials said that, subject to appeal, enforcement action would follow which could include ordering its demolition.

Now, Mr Ismail’s planning agent, Khalid Khan, has revealed his client is to appeal the refusal.

The committee heard Mr Ismail had bought the house and demolished a conservatory which he then replaced with the lounge.

Realising, after the work had been completed, that he need planning permission, he applied for it retrospectively.

Officers recommended approval, but next door neighbour Kathleen Gambella appeared before the councillors to object in person.

She said it would overlook her garden and restrict light to the property.

Roe Lee ward councillor Phil Riley told the committee that the extension was ‘ugly’ and ‘overbearing’ and should not be given backdated permission.

He was supported by Sudell Liberal Democrat Paul Browne.

Coun Riley said planning permission should be refused on the grounds that the extension was inappropriate, too large and ‘overbearing’.

The committee voted to overturn the officers’ recommendation and refuse the backdated approval.

Tory spokesman Colin Rigby asked the officials whether this meant the council could order its demolition.

Senior planner Neil Rodgers said that Mr Ismail could appeal to a government inspector but if the committee decision was upheld or not contested, enforcement action would follow.

He confirmed to Coun Rigby this could mean forcing Mr Ismail to knock down the extension.