On Design

Thought i would share some recent experiences with you on this one....

We have done a large number of these recently and whilst general central and local planning policy indicates that a replacement dwelling within a conservation area is accetpable in principle, you should gear yourselves up for going the extra mile when it comes to the design, content and presentation of your application.

Firstly you will need to confirm that the current dwelling is lawful in terms of being a residential dwelling. Secondly, i would strongly advise you to invest in a good quality independent structural survey as this will be vital in demonstrating that the current dwelling although lawful, is beyond sensible economical repair or, that it does not enhance the Conservation Area that it is within.

More imporant than ever will be the quality of your design as you need to demonstrate to the planning authority that should you be able to demolish the current dwelling, the proposed replacement will be of an appropriate local style and that its vernacular and detailing are immediately recognisable and are to a high standard therefore enhancing the Conservation Area setting. Also on design, presentation is everything so make sure you include coloured visuals such as street elevations and photo montages to really demonstrate the design credentials of your proposals.

Remember also that when submitting for a replacement dwellling within a Conservation Area, you do in fact need to make two separate planning applications. The first deals with the demolition aspect, normally called Conservation Area Consent (CAC) and the second with the design, siting, materials and landscaping etc as per a normal planning application.

Based on our recent successes, if you aim high with your design, do local research into building forms and styles, use high quality materials and involve the Conservation Officer from the start of the process as well as the Planning Officer, you should get the result you want.

Good Luck!