PLANS to install large dormer windows on the roof of a former church building have been refused by a planning panel.

An application to convert Sandy Lane Methodist Church into a house were approved several years ago.

Last year a Mrs Manir submitted a further application for the building – to install large dormer windows in the church roof to create extra living space.

Planning officers had recommended the proposed dormers be refused due to being “unsympathetic” to the building, and over concerns that it would lead to overlooking of neighbouring homes.

The application was discussed by members of Bradford Council’s Bradford Area Planning Panel on Wednesday.

Councillor Mohammed Amran (Lab, Heaton) spoke on behalf of the applicants, saying they were a growing family, and the work would create more space in the building.

He pointed out that the building was not listed.

Planning officers said that although dormer windows are sometimes allowed without planning permission, the dormers planned for this ex-church would be “very large.”

Councillor Brendan Stubbs (Lib Dem, Eccleshill) said: “We have items come before us where people try to exceed the limitations of what is allowed. I see no reason to go against officers’ recommendation.”

Chair of the Committee Councillor Shabir Hussain (Lab, Manningham) said he did not see what was wrong with the plans, and supported the changes.

Councillor Sinead Engel (Lab, Clayton and Fairweather Green) said: “It is a beautiful building as it is. The addition of massive dormers would be so incongruous it would significantly harm the appearance of this building.”

The panel voted to refuse the application.