A house extension on green belt land has been approved by Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council despite fierce opposition from neighbours.

The barn conversion on Kenilworth Road in Balsall Common is one of three homes in a small enclave that was formerly used for agriculture. 

Both councillors and members of the public spoke at a planning committee last week in opposition to the extension.

One neighbour, Wendy Wilson, said opening her curtains and seeing the extension every morning would be a "slap in the face".

She told councillors: "Balance and harmony are crucial.

"This proposed extension would completely upset this balance as its overbearing mass would dominate the courtyard.

"The view from my own bedroom window where I can just see the trees will be replaced by this extension. The sheer mass and oppressive nature will be a slap in the face every time I open my bedroom curtains.

"When I bought my property 20 years ago," she continued, "it was with the understanding and acceptance that I would not be able to extend and that I could, in turn, depend on the council to defend and protect my own amenity. I am totally dismayed and appalled at the recommendation to approve this application."

Cllr Diane Howell supported Ms Wilson saying: "My reason for objecting is that it is inappropriate green belt development. It's important that we protect this and not set a precedent. 

"Of course, the applicant is quite within their right to apply for permission for development. But I do believe that the location of this extension is intrusive being at the front of the building, it's not tucked away. It will change the look and the character of the property.

"I believe that we need to protect our green belt from inappropriate development. This is a front extension that would be visible and out of character with the neighbouring buildings and I urge the committee to refuse this application."

In response, a planning officer argued that the enclave's planning conditions do not mean the houses should be "wrapped in cotton wool", and that the properties cannot be extended without permission from the local authority. 

He added that the extension is not an inappropriate addition to the green belt because its overall size represents a ten per cent increase of the original building's floor area - lower than the 40 per cent limit on green belt land.

Cllr Maggie Allen said: "I have some sympathy with the residents. It is going to make a huge difference to the area.

"But if the development is in line with local policies, I don't really know what we can do about it."

Eight members of the planning committee voted in favour of the application meaning it was approved.