B5.3.1 Balancing scale, privacy, and access

Backland development must not exceed the height, massing or scale of dwellings in the immediate context, taking reference from the Local Character and Context Assessment (1.3c, and where applicable 1.4g).

Exception: Proposals larger than neighbouring buildings will only be acceptable on exceptionally large plots, where this is demonstrably in keeping with the prevailing character of the area.

Backland development proposals must protect the privacy and amenity of neighbouring homes, by ensuring that:

• proposals respect the minimum separation distances set out in Code: 5.30c

• tandem development (which places one dwelling directly behind another on the same plot with a shared access) is avoided, to prevent access and privacy issues

Backland development proposals should follow the 25-degree and 45-degree rules set out in Guidance: 5.18g to ensure that no adverse effects on neighbouring amenities would occur with the proposals.