A HOMEOWNER in Leigh is stepping up their fight to keep a large extension built on their roof without permission despite complaints from neighbours 

Southend Council has previously ordered the homeowner, living in Manchester Drive, to remove the roof extension and issued enforcement action. 

However, in a final bid to keep the extension, the resident has now lodged an appeal with the planning inspectorate in the hope of the council’s decision being overturned.  

Appeal - Enforcement action at address in Manchester Drive, LeighAppeal - Enforcement action at address in Manchester Drive, Leigh (Image: Southend Council)


According to Southend Council, complaints were first received in May 2023 about work taking place on the roof. 

Laurie Burton, councillor for the Blenheim ward, has claimed he has received many complaints about the extension from residents living in the area. 

The Government’s planning inspector will now have the say on the final ruling. 

Enforcement - Homeowner launches appeal Enforcement - Homeowner launches appeal (Image: Southend Council)


Mr Burton said: “If residents are putting up buildings without planning permission, then it makes a mockery of the whole system.

“I am pleased the council is taking firm action against the minority who aren’t following the rules.

“Many residents have been complaining to me about this development and I think the residents should do the responsible thing and remove it.”

Southend Council had rejected a planning application at the start of last year over a roof extension being installed at the property, however work began months later. 

Planning permission had previously been granted for alterations to the ground floor of the property and the owner claimed to Southend Council works on the roof were in association with the ground floor work. 

Following a site visit in October, the officer was informed by the owner that works to the roof had stopped, however a further complaint was received in April 2024, stating works had recommenced.

Following a site visit, it was confirmed that the works to construct a hip to gable roof extension and a rear dormer had commenced and have been progressing.

A letter was sent regarding the unauthorised works, but Southend Council say the information has been received to demonstrate that the works continued after that.

Following this, councillors decided to issue an enforcement notice to remove the roof extension.