Can I officially support my neighbour’s plans?
Q I know this is unusual but I want to officially agree with a neighbour’s planning application. We live in a cul-de-sac and he has applied for an extension. When the planning application went up, two other neighbours approached me with a view to us all jointly objecting. The truth is I don’t object, as far as I can see, the extension is fine, he is a good neighbour and I want to give him my support. Is it possible to do that?
A Yes, it is possible and it’s not so unusual. You can make a supportive “observation” in relation to the planning application. It costs €20. (Your other neighbours will be paying the same amount for their objection.) Write a letter to the planning department of your local authority saying why you support the application. You must give your name and address, your neighbour’s name and address, and the planning application number. However, neighbours’ viewpoints, whether for or against, while taken seriously, only hold a certain amount of sway – and sometimes none at all with the planners. It depends on the proposed development.
Looking at it coldly, is there a chance that the proposed extension will impact on these two objectors (by virtue of where they live in the cul-de-sac) more than it will on you? Your observation must be submitted within five weeks of the lodgement of a planning application. The five-week period commences on the date the application is lodged with the planning department of your local authority.
How can I clean a dirty deck?
Q This may not be the sort of thing you deal with in your column but any advice on how to clean a deck that is dirty (green build-up in shaded places) after the winter and slippery. It’s a small timber deck surrounded by cobblelock, which is also dirty. Would a power washer be a good idea?
A Any questions to do with any aspect of property are always welcome in this column and your question is one of several about outdoor spaces. If you go to any large DIY store you’ll find several branded deck cleaners and, as serious chemicals are involved, please read the instructions carefully. Alternatively, many people swear by power washers, adding a weak solution of chlorine bleach to kill the algae (the green slippery coating on your deck) as well as moss and mildew. But be careful, don’t go mad with an extremely powerful power washer – under extreme pressure the surface of the timber deck can be broken up. If you don’t have a powerwasher, a good hose and a bristle brush will also do the job. If you do have a power washer (or want to rent one) it will also work on the cobblelock but, again, be careful. If it hasn’t been laid properly and the washer is too powerful, you could end up loosening the cobbles/bricks. A hose and brush might be a more gentle option. Decks are high maintenance garden features as some homeowners are now finding to their regret. Once your deck is clean, seal the wood with a synthetic resin sealer.
Your questions
Send your queries to Property questions, The Irish Times, The Irish Times Building, 24-28 Tara Street, Dublin 2 or email propertyquestions@irish-times.ie. This column is a readers’ service and is not intended to replace professional advice.
