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The Architectural Studio, Stanley House, Lord Street, Douglas, Isle of Man.
Telephone & Fax (01624) 622122 Mobile (07624) 498099. EMail ; [email protected]
Planning Appeals Chief Secretary’s Office Government Offices Bucks Road Douglas.
18 May 2006
Dear Sir
RE: PLANNING APPLICATION No 05/92215/B : ALTERATIONS & EXTENSIONS TO OUTBUILDING TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL LIVING ACCOMODATION & SWIMMING POOL, THE GARTH, GARTH ROAD, CROSBY, FOR MRS P HAZELL.
The information included in this statement is to be used as part of the written representation for the above appeal hearing.
The application relates to The Garth estate, set in an isolated area and comprising of a private dwelling, modest outbuildings, triple garage, a large dutch barn, stables for equestrian activities with montage areas and finally the building ‘Garth Flat’ to which this application relates. This group of buildings is localised, naturally screened from adjacent roads, and set within in 67 acres of agricultural land.
The Garth Flat to which this application relates see Drawing No AT 760.1 is of traditional form, being stone built, and housed below a slate roof. It appears to be structurally sound with the exception of a single storey annex and balcony to the rear, both would be demolished if approved. The building, which has been known as the Garth Flat presently accommodates open ground floor stores, whilst the first floor contains an established self contained flat. This building is indeed separately rated by the local commissioners.
This existing flat accommodation is dark and dated, the only access is gained from steep external steps, via a door with minimal headroom. I would describe the layout as flawed, and inherently unsafe in the event of a fire. Existing escape from the bedrooms is through the living room, and past the small kitchen, which provides little space for appliances.
The personal justification of this project is covered within my clients advocates representation.
The proposal is to upgrade and refurbish this structure, to provide good quality ancillary accommodation for Mrs Hazell’s future staff. The existing flat accommodation feels claustrophobic, due to the small window apertures. It is intended to create a generous glazed area within the gable wall, improving natural light whilst providing access to the balcony, which would serve as a much needed private external recreational area for staff. The previously mentioned annex would be demolished, and replaced with a single storey structure to accommodate a lounge for the applicants personal use whilst using the facility, and for staff use in Mrs Hazell’s absence. The new kitchen is intended primarily for staff use, with a modest galley area on the first floor. An area on the ground floor of Garth Flat will be retained for general storage of garden machinery.
In addition to the refurbishment works, we propose to construct a single storey extension to the rear of the building, which would house a swimming pool with associated facilities. This structure has been sensitively designed, being mindful of the building that it extends. The roof lines are lower than the existing barn, with external finishes to match the adjacent building cluster. Internally all aspects of the design are wheelchair friendly, with a lift proposed within the barn area. The proposal sits comfortably on the site being dwarfed by the large adjacent dutch barn, is totally screened by the existing densely planted areas and accordingly unseen, with the exception of a view from the Cool Road some 3 miles away. Please refer to our photographic evidence that was included as part of the planning details, in support of the application drawings.
To summarise, The Garth estate is located within an isolated rural area, with dense tree lined screening. If approved the project would have little impact on the surrounding area, and has the backing of the local commissioners and Department of Transport. It is the applicants wish to execute works to tastefully extend and refurbish the barn building, and follow the theme of massive investment to maintain and improve the property. Personal and medical justification to support the proposals has been proved. If approved this scheme will provide high quality living accommodation for desperately needed support staff, the swimming pool and treatment rooms have been specifically designed to assist my clients quality of life, enabling her to enjoy retirement on the island.
We trust the appeals inspector is satisfied with the information provided, and accepts the mitigating facts enabling this application to be approved.
Yours faithfully
M D Hobson
Director (for & behalf of) Arch Tec (IOM) Ltd
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