I am in a quandary as to exactly what the ‘principal elevation’ is to
our new house. There is a very narrow lane and the main house wall
actually borders the lane, with no pavement. We would consider this
wall to be the principal elevation, as any changes to it would have
the biggest impact on the view from the road and the outlook for
our neighbours. However, there are no windows or doors on that
elevation at all. The side elevation (what we consider to be the
‘side’ at present) has windows and a conservatory and can be seen from
the road. What we consider the rear elevation, has the main
architectural features, such as bay windows, the old front door etc
and looks over the private gardens. There are fields on both sides of
the property and woods to the rear, so no neighbours on our side of
the road. There are 4 or 5 houses on the opposite side of the road,
with standard front elevations. We want to extend into the private
garden, but what is considered the ‘principal elevation’ for planning
purposes? Any advice would be very much appreciated.
