AN ASCOT resident has expressed concerns at the increasing “over-development” of his prestigious street, which he feels is leading to the loss of valuable green belt land.


Dr Mac Al-Chalabi, who has lived in Prince Consort Drive for 33 years, has hit out at the “urban sprawl” he says is taking place, with what he says is an emphasis on “quantity not quality” when new planning applications are approved. 


He feels in the past 10 years or so developers have had a “free hand” and begun tearing down old properties, only to replace them with “huge monstrosities”.


He said: “The road was built in 1958 and it was upmarket, one of the most prestigious roads in Ascot and a lot of people were very zealous about it but unfortunately it seems to have succumbed to this. 


“There were a few bungalows and the homes used to be quite modest but now they are all monstrosities. They are too big for their plots, often three floors high with three garages. 


“What used to be elegant, nice houses have gone. 


"Not even the brick is in harmony. It used to be a pleasure, a delightful and really enchanting road and now we have been left with a chaotic assemblage of brick and mortar.”


The council’s planning policies mean that residents are not allowed to extend their property but demolition and a replacement of up to a 40 per cent increase is allowed. 


He fears that their size and bulk mean the council’s green belt policy of “openness” and “stopping urban sprawl” is being flouted. 


Dr Al-Chalabi’s concerns have worsened since applicants were given the go-ahead to build a new home next door to his with a balcony and windows that will overlook his garden, which he feels will result in a significant loss of light for him and his wife and will be intrusive. 


Andrew Hunter, chief officer for planning and transport at Bracknell Forest Council, said: “Like all local authorities we determine planning applications based on their own individual merits according to national, regional and local planning policies. This includes planning applications made within the green belt.


“The application for Wildwoods in Ascot was no exception, it was judged against all relevant planning policies and scrutinised thoroughly by the council’s planning committee as part of the democratic process. 


“In relation to this planning application, We are aware of the comments made by one of the neighbouring residents and have already been in contact correspondence with that resident him about his concerns.”