Long Barn Conversion Design Statement

Design Statement: The proposed Long Barn Conversion Wallberry Farm, Braddan – The Children's Centre Charity

Planning application (17/00847/B): for the proposed conversion and extension of the Long Barn at Wallberry Farm, to create an educational catering kitchen and associated facilities.

The initial planning application information (as prepared by JS Associates Ltd): submitted in August 2017, have been reviewed by the Planning Department (including the Conservation Officer). Reservations were noted over the proposed scheme design, with the planning team unable to support the proposals as submitted.

The following design considerations were noted:

A. The existing farm represents an archetypal 'Manx farm'; Main Farm House with Long Barn attached forming a court yard area.

B. The property has been well maintained, with limited development of the site over the years; specifically, the main buildings, stores and barns. Consequently, an emphasis on maintaining the external character and historical integrity of the farm will be a key consideration when reviewing a proposed planning application.

C. The principle of the planning application is viewed favourably. The proposals for the Children's Centre Charity to re-use the existing Long Barn as an educational catering facility is likely to be viewed positively against current Planning policy – specifically Environmental Policy 16.

D. The reservations over the current planning application proposal were noted as:

I. The current proposal substantially alters the appearance and character of the Long Barn and Farm House, beyond the limits which the Planning Department can accept.

II. The roof area to the proposed extension, significantly alters the visual appearance of the existing Long Barn and Farm House. The overall increase in height and scale of the roof extension, alters the visual character and proportions of these buildings adversely; specifically, the Long Barn.

III. The aesthetic and design of the proposed extension appears to be a 'pastiche' of the current vernacular. While practicable in style, the current scheme is not perceived as a 'contemporary design solution' that enhances its context.

IV. There is a concern, that over time, the current design and style of the 'extension' could be confused as being an 'original feature' of the site. From a Conservational perspective, this confusion should be avoided.

V. A 'clearly defined contemporary intervention' that would create an 'architectural statement' – allowing the existing and new building elements to be clearly identifiable, is likely to be received favourably.

VI. Maintaining the visual integrity of the 'monolithic' stone wall of the Long Barn, is considered important. Any extension proposal will need to reflect this in its design and find a sense of 'place' and 'balance' as a visual impact on to this important elevation. The current proposal does not achieve this.

VII. The proposed location of the extension within the garden area, was agreed to be the preferred location.

The amended plans have been prepared following detailed conversations with the planning officers. The new scheme has notably addressed:

1. Visually definable - The new extension is not a pastiche of the current vernacular. The proposed extension distinguish itself from the existing adjacent buildings. This is achieved through its scale, glazing details, articulation of its connection to the Long Barn and choice of materials proposed.

1. Contemporary design - The new extension is visually definable as a 'new contemporary structure', complementing its existing context while achieving design merit, as a standalone object. A well-designed, and thoughtfully detailed structure, which compliments its surroundings and enhances its overall context.

1. Buildings Hierarchy - The extension is subservient within its context; i.e. Farm House, Long Barn and then extension. This is achieved through scale and positioning of the extension.

1. Positioning of the extension - The extension is positioned along the Long Barns frontage. Creating a distinct visual and physical separation from the Farm House, while still maintaining the 'monolith' of the existing Manx stone façade.

1. Use of Materials - The use of a simple palette of materials is proposed; including stone, slate and glass. These will be used in a 'contemporary' arrangement - and not slavishly replicating the current vernacular.

1. Green Technologies - The use of 'Green' technologies; will be included within the design detail of the building. This may include, for instance, specialist glazing systems / alternative insulation products / solar power (renewables) / locally sourced materials and tradesmen.

1. Planning Policy 16 - The proposals for the Children's Centre to re-use the existing Long Barn as an educational catering facility is likely to be viewed positively against the current Planning Environmental Policy 16.

Given the collaborative design approach, taken to date, the Charity believes the amended planning submission will be supported by the Planning Department.