So the building authority states in writing: "Consider approximately 3 houses to the left and right, not across the street. Applies with regard to ridge and eaves height."
So the building authority says in writing: "Consider about 3 houses to the left and right,
That is a nice building authority if they want to give you little work, but
not across the street. Applies with regard to ridge and eaves height"
I consider that a private opinion of the examiner. I would always consider at least the eight surrounding houses - regardless of whether they are adjacent with or without a street - as well as the own "housing block" - i.e. without the opposite - as a whole. Especially if the house opposite were taller ;-) I recall (from memory) that the building authority said overall height is fine, but the desired floor height individually does not exist in the surrounding area.