Philbeach Conservation area architects SW5

This design and access statement was prepared in support to making a full planning application for carrying out alterations to the Ground floor flat, 49 Philbeach Gardens, SW5 9EB, London.

The existing flat occupies the ground floor of a four storey residential building at SW5 Philbeach Conservation area. We proposed the replacement of the front windows and one rear window with matching frames and details. We also proposed to enlarge the opening that leads to the rear garden and replace the existing door and windows with new aluminium framed doors and windows to improve access to natural light. For the same reason we proposed to enlarge the side window of this room and replace it with similar aluminium frames.

Associated internal alterations aimed to improve the quality of the habitable rooms and of the residential provisions.

We believe that the proposed changes will compliment the character of the existing building, do not impact on the amenities of the adjacent properties and create an improved living space that blends contemporary design with the character of the host building.
We do not propose to alter the access around the front or the rear of the flat.

The proposals would preserve the character and appearance of the building, street scene and conservation area. This is because they are minor in scale. The double glazed traditional timber sashes will be sympathetic –reflecting those present at the property and whole terrace. The enlarged side window and introduction of sliding rear patio door would discreetly be located where private and public views are limited. The proposal would therefore accord with the objectives of Policies CL1, CL2, CL3, CL6 and CL11 of the Consolidated Local Plan 2015.

In terms of impact on the living conditions, it was clear from the site visit that there is some degree of mutual overlooking into the rear garden of basement flat from the existing rear bedroom window and side window of the host property. Notwithstanding this, Policy CL5 requires reasonable visual privacy for the occupants of existing properties affected by the development and, that where this is already substandard, that, there should be no material worsening of the condition.

The proposal includes the enlargement of an existing side window which overlooks into the garden of the basement flat. This enlarged window will be obscured glazed and fixed shut. A condition will be added on the permission to secure this. Subject to compliance with this condition, it is considered that, the development would not result in a material worsening of existing conditions in terms of increase in the degree of overlooking and loss of privacy and would therefore accord with Policy CL5 on those grounds.

Considerable importance and weight has been attached to and special attention has been paid to the desirability of preserving or enhancing the character or appearance of the conservation area, under s.72 of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990, as amended.
Weight was also given to relevant local Supplementary Planning Guidance/Documents and Statements, including: Philbeach Conservation Area

Recommendation: Grant Planning Permission