A RETROSPECTIVE planning application to install a Juliet balcony in a Conservation Area building has been refused.

At a meeting of Bradford Council’s Keighley and Shipley Area Planning Panel on Wednesday, members were told that exterior work had been done to Flat 1, 2 Alexandra Crescent, Ilkley without permission.

This included replacing old fittings to existing dormer windows and installing a full length Juliet balcony.

Officers said much of the works were acceptable, but the balcony damaged the appearance of Ilkley Conservation Area.

At the meeting members heard from Michael Carr, who was representing applicant Paul Knight. He said: “He apologises - it was a genuine mistake. He wanted to improve the appearance of the building.”

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He had not realised the changes needed planning permission.

Councillor Paul Godwin (Lab, Keighley West) asked: "If this type of development becomes accepted, does this become the new standard for the area?"

John Eyles from the planning department, said: "We look at each application on its merits, but if we allow one plan then similar ones become more difficult for us to refuse."

Members voted to support officers and refuse the application.