AW - March newsletter
MARCH 2020 - PLANNING PRE-APP'S & CORVID-19
This month we have been particularly busy with pre-application advice submissions for listed buildings and Conservation Areas. The following short case study is a Grade II listed farmhouse project in a lovely Somerset village.
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CASE STUDY - PRE APPLICATION ADVICE
This picturesque Grade II property set in the heart of Somerset, built in 1837 of local stone, has had a series of small extensions over time, including a David Salisbury conservatory to the rear. The owners approached us to look at sensitive internal alterations and a solution for the existing conservatory, which while a nice space to sit at certain times of the day, like all conservatories suffers from being difficult to heat in the cold weather, and overheating in the summer.
The initial proposals explored the option of keeping and upgrading, however the practicalities and costs of this outweighed the benefit. After several houses on the drawing board a single storey extension was suggested, using high quality materials and detailing to complement the existing building. This would contain a large new kitchen and living space extended from the main living area, infilling the space between an existing gable wall and external mono-pitched workshop. The shallow roof pitch could be a zinc or aluminium standing seamed roof, and this along with other items will be discussed in depth with the Conservation officer.
Pre-App
We would always recommend the pre-app process where listed buildings and Conservation Areas are concerned. It is usually very worthwhile meeting a Conservation officer for an informal discussion before you submit an application. Pre-application advice for your project can be helpful in the following ways:
Establish a dialogue between the planning department and engage the Conservation officer at an early stage
Verify the list of local requirements each planning authority can require
Reduce the likelihood of submitting invalid applications
Help understand how planning policies and other requirements affect your proposals
Most local planning authorities charge for this service so it’s a good idea to check this first. In our experience with listed buildings this has always been a useful and valuable exercise.
Please get in touch if you are considering a construction project on 01394 311017
The Astrolabe, Cheddar Business Park, BS27 3EB
SHORT COVID-19 NOTICE
With the Coronavirus (COVID-19) affecting communities and families around the world, this is a difficult time for us all. We would like to affirm our commitment to supporting the health and wellbeing of our customers and business partners. We are continuously monitoring the situation and will be following the government advice that is being issued. If we are currently working on your project then you can rest assured that we will continue to do so at the best of our abilities. In line with the latest Government guidelines, we ask that any visitors to our office observe the following: • Wash hands at the designated wash station • Keep physical contact to a minimum • If you feel unwell or have recently returned from an area where restrictions are currently in place please re-arrange your visit to avoid the spread of possible infection
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