Persistence leads to success- planning approval granted

SUCCESS! Planning application granted consent!

Case Study: heritage support for planning application for the restoration of an 19th century NDHA terrace house into a family dwelling after sitting empty for years in Cambridge

LPA: Greater Cambridge Shared Planning

Overview: After one pre-app and three full-apps Weiser Heritage Consultancy is pleased to have received notice that Planning Permission has been granted consent on an application which we were appointed to provide heritage related planning support. The existing building was to be brought back into use and new rear extensions built replacing existing to provide accommodation for the 21st century.

The project began with a pre-application to the council for the conversion of the building into two self-contained flats. It was based upon the quantum of development adjacent dwellings had built extending their properties. However, the difference was that those dwellings remained single-family homes and not multiple units.

Whilst the planning officer indicated early support, the conservation officer had concerns. The first of three applications was submitted for this proposal. It and the second application were withdrawn after discussing the lack of support from officers. It was clear that two flats put too much pressure on the modest historic building and officers indicated that a single-family dwelling would be more likely to be supported. In the end, the final application for the restoration of the building into a modern family dwelling was successful.

WHC Role: WHC was brought in by the architect to provide expert heritage advice for the pre-application submission. Our involvement included a full site visit, collaboration with both the architect and the client, liaiso with officers, a detailed review of the proposed drawings and providing a Heritage Impact Assessment to accompany the pre-application. We were involved from the beginning which enabled consistent support and advice, including architectural and design guidance and recommendations that would increase the likelihood that the application would be supported by officers. Our years of conservation and architectural/design experience proved invaluable.

Heritage Assessment: The wider site includes the following heritage assets: conservation area, buildings of local interest and Non-Designated Heritage Assets (NDHA), adjacent listed cemetery and gravestones. The building itself was an unlisted 19th century terrace house used to house railway workers.

Planning Policy & Public Benefit: The heritage impact assessment was prepared with careful reference to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and relevant local planning policies. The level of harm was assessed as less than substantial and justified by the public benefits delivered, including:

• Bringing an empty building back into its optimum viable use.

• Replacing inappropriate windows on the front main elevation with more sympathetic designed windows.

• Creating a modern family home within a historic context and setting.

Outcome: Whilst the applicant chose to pursue the first proposal for two flats, in the end the heritage advice and guidance provided resulted in the council supporting the final application.

Conclusion: This project highlights the importance of collaboration and open dialogue when working with architects and clients in relation to heritage assets. Persistence and patience went a long way. While not all advice was adopted, early involvement helped inform the direction of the proposal and ensured that conservation principles remained at the forefront of decision-making.

Need Help with your Listed Building or Planning Application? Whether you’re an architect, homeowner, or developer, Weiser Heritage Consultancy provides expert and bespoke support for heritage related developments. Contact me for heritage planning advice, listed building consent application guidance, or conservation consultancy.