Case Study
2-4 Ringers Road, Bromley
2-4 Ringers Road, Bromley
Acted as Expert Witness for Planning Appeal for Bromley BC for Daylight and Sunlight
Project Overview
Our Role:
Akt. was appointed by Bromley Borough Council to provide expert daylight and sunlight (DSO) advice in support of a planning appeal for two high-rise residential towers. Our work involved detailed due diligence on the appellant’s submission, identification of key technical errors, and preparation of robust evidence and rebuttals.
We supported the council throughout a two-week inquiry, including a full day of expert cross-examination, ultimately helping to secure a successful outcome with DSO-related costs awarded.
Objectives:
• Provide expert DSO analysis for both neighbouring properties and future occupants
• Conduct full due diligence on the appellant’s DSO report
• Identify and evidence technical flaws and inconsistencies
• Produce formal proof of evidence and expert rebuttals
• Contribute to the preparation of the Statement of Common Ground
• Support legal proceedings through planning inquiry and cross-examination
• Defend the council’s planning refusal and secure cost recovery on DSO grounds
2-4 Ringers Road, Bromley Acted as Expert Witness for Planning Appeal for Bromley BC for Daylight and Sunlight
Akt. was instructed by Bromley Borough Council Planning Department to provide expert support in relation to a planning appeal concerning two proposed residential towers (11 and 13 storeys). The original application was refused on the grounds of daylight/sunlight (DSO), scale, and proximity to surrounding buildings.
Akt. carried out thorough due diligence on the appellant’s submitted report, identifying a number of fundamental errors. Despite three attempts by the appellant to rectify the issues, Akt prepared robust proof of evidence and rebuttals, contributing to a comprehensive Statement of Common Ground. During the two-week public inquiry, Akt’s analysis was subject to detailed crossexamination by one of the UK’s leading KCs specialising in planning matters.
The appeal was ultimately dismissed, with Bromley BC successfully defending its position and being awarded DSO-related costs. Akt’s involvement secured fees of £50,000.
How can Akt. help?
Party Wall matters can be a major headache for architects, developers, property managers and owners alike. But negotiating Party Wall awards does not have to be stressful; in the right hands, the whole process can be surprisingly hassle-free.
Akt. have successfully completed more than 2000 awards, including complex basement projects and high-end developments in both the residential and commercial sectors.
