DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT
Replacement of a Static Caravan with a Chalet for Holiday Use and
Associated Development - Application for change of approved external
roof and wall finishes
at
Land at Bryn Goleu, Nannerch, Mold, Flintshire, CH7 5RN
Prepared by
Mr Ian Bramham
054061
27.07.2015
Owen Devenport Ltd.
DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT
LAND AT BRYN GOLEU, NANNERCH, MOLD, FLINTSHIRE, CH7 5RN.
PROPOSED REPLACEMENT OF A STATIC CARAVAN WITH A CHALET FOR HOLIDAY
USE AND ASSOCIATED DEVELOPMENT – APPLICATION FOR CHANGE OF
PREVIOUSLY APPROVED EXTERNAL ROOF AND WALL FINSHES.
1.0
INTRODUCTION
1.1
This Design & Access Statement refers to the proposed replacement of a
static caravan with a chalet for holiday use and associated development at
Land at Bryn Goleu, Nannerch, Mold, Flintshire, CH7 5RN. Planning
Permission ref 053711 dated 23rd June 2015 was granted for a replacement
holiday chalet. This application seeks permission to change the previously
approved external wall and roof finishes.
1.2
The proposal has been designed with the national and local policy context in
mind and with due accord paid to all policies relevant to the proposed use.
2.0
SITE LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION
2.1
The site is situated in a rural position approximately 0.9km south of the
A541 and 1.5km west of Nannerch.
2.2
The site itself currently contains a static caravan, however full Planning
Permission was granted under decision ref 053711 on the 23/06/2015 for a
holiday chalet to replace this static caravan. This application responds to
Planning Permission ref 053711 and seeks permission to change the
approved external roof and wall finishes.
2.3
The caravan is set in a triangular shaped field, which is used in connection
with the caravan, with informal parking arrangements.
2.4
The site is defined by mature trees and hedgerows on its northern, eastern,
and south western boundaries, which screen and separate it from the
surrounding area. There is an open field set to the north, the lane providing
access to the site to the east (with further open fields beyond), and a field
and land used in connection with Chapel House to the west.
2.5
The area around the site is rolling open countryside which is defined by
open fields, wooded areas, and scattered individual properties and clusters
of development.
2.6
From the above it can clearly be seen that the site is set in a rural position
and that it is contained and screened by mature trees and hedgerows, and
that it forms part of the development pattern of the area which is defined
by scattered development of various forms and styles.
Design and Access Statement: Land at Bryn Goleu, Nannerch, CH7 5RN
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3.0
CHARACTER
3.1
As stated above, the site is set in a rural position and that it is contained
and screened by mature trees and hedgerows. The site forms part of the
development pattern of the area which is defined by scattered development
of various forms and styles.
3.2
Buildings in the local area generally have roofs clad with slate or
concrete/clay tiles and have walls clad with either render or local stone.
3.3
Planning Permission ref 053711 dated 23/06/15 was granted for a holiday
chalet on the site with timber wall cladding and a roof clad with painted
lightweight metal.
3.4
This proposal is an application for approval for a change in the previously
approved wall cladding materials. We are applying to (1) change the
approved timber wall cladding to locally sourced natural stone, and (2)
change the approved painted lightweight metal roof cladding to a natural
slate in a dark blue/grey colour to better match other properties in the
area. The rear slope of the roof would have photovoltaic panels built into
the slope of the roof.
3.5
These changes to the previously approved external wall and roof cladding
materials are the only variations from Planning Permission ref 053711 for
which permission is being sought. The rest of the design of the building
remains exactly as that previously approved.
3.6
The reason for the proposed changes in wall and roof finishes is that it is
felt that the proposed new slate and stone roof and wall finishes would
better fit in with the vernacular style of other local buildings in the area.
3.7
The chalet design already approved under Planning Permission ref 053711
would have traditional concrete foundations and ground floor slab so these
would not need to change if we are granted permission to change from the
approved timber wall cladding to locally sourced stone.
3.8
Overall, the proposal offers an opportunity to considerably improve the
visual amenities offered by the site and to construct a new chalet whose
character would be suited to the locality and would form a legible addition.
3.9
The area’s economic character is typical of rural areas of the County with a
mixture of tourism businesses and agricultural and related enterprises
defining the local economy, with key local settlements providing a mix of
shops, services and other employment uses. There is also a relatively
substantial level of tourist accommodation in the area. The proposal would
not impact upon the local economy as it would replace one form of holiday
accommodation with another.
3.10
The proposal will benefit from a degree of passive surveillance, and the
building will be designed with a good standard of physical security (in
respect of the quality of locks, doors, windows etc.)
4.0
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
4.1
In terms of the sustainability of the proposal it will take advantage of some
of the latest environmentally friendly products available in the form of
Design and Access Statement: Land at Bryn Goleu, Nannerch, CH7 5RN
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heating and electrical design, and materials, and will meet the building
regulation requirements in their entirety. High levels of insulation will be
considered in the detailed design of the building, and low energy electrical
fittings and high efficiency heating system will also be considered. Thus the
building has the potential to be eminently sustainable.
5.0
MOVEMENT TO, FROM AND WITHIN THE DEVELOPMENT, & ACCESSIBILITY
5.1
The current design in terms of movement from and within the
development & accessibility is identical to the one approved under
Planning Permission ref 053711.The access approach taken for this
development is relatively simple to reflect the uncomplicated nature of the
project and the design of the proposal.
Movement within the Development
5.2
The proposal has been carefully designed to facilitate its use by a variety of
visitors, from those with young children, to the elderly or mobility-impaired
persons. The proposal is primarily designed for use by a couple or small
family, with 2 bedrooms, a bathroom and a WC, and other accommodation
provided to cater for needs of the average visitors.
5.3
It is of an uncomplicated design, which allows for easy access by all. All
entrances, doors and walkways are of sufficient width for most users, and
the single level simple design allows for clear lines of sight and easy access
through the building thus enabling easy movement throughout the property.
5.4
The proposal could be easily adapted for use by mobility-impaired users
through the provision of small ramps at the entrances, and the bathroom
and WC specified are of sufficient size to be easily adapted to fit most
mobility impaired users needs.
5.5
The outside areas will be suitably surfaced and designed to facilitate their
use by all users, with care taken to avoid any uneven surfaces or sudden
changes in level to allow for their use by all.
5.6
Adequate circulation space has been provided in the submitted design
(inside and around the proposal), and the site would have good links to the
local area.
5.7
A parking area will be provided to the side of the building, preventing any
untidy or un-regularised parking on the site, which could restrict the ease of
movement of vehicles on or off the site, or cause problems for the mobility
impaired.
5.8
Access to the proposal is simple and straightforward allowing those with
mobility impairments, the elderly, or those with young children simple and
quick access to the proposed chalet without unnecessary barriers or
difficulty.
Disability
5.9
The current design in terms of disability is identical to the one
approved under Planning Permission ref 053711.
Design and Access Statement: Land at Bryn Goleu, Nannerch, CH7 5RN
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5.10
As mentioned above, although the proposal is not primarily designed for use
by those with mobility impairments or other disabilities its single level
layout and design ensures that it could be easily adapted to fit the
requirements of any such resident as the open and simple nature of the
design allows for such changes with the minimum of expense and difficulty.
Only a relatively small number of changes would be required, such as
addition of small access ramps, and the installation of specialist equipment.
Or in the case of those who are visually or aurally impaired the addition of
adequate signage, high contrast design features or textured treatments is a
simple matter with the proposed designs.
External Movement
Highway and Pedestrian Access
5.11
The current design in terms of highway and pedestrian access is
identical to the one approved under Planning Permission ref 053711.
5.12
The proposal will utilise an improved access that will allow access onto a
local highway. This road has a very low number of vehicular movements and
can be expected to have low vehicle speeds, and as such is eminently
suitable for providing access to the site; also adequate visibility will be
available at the access. These factors make this the ideal solution for this
proposal.
5.13
A safe and secure parking area will be provided to the side of the building,
preventing any untidy or un-regularised parking on the site, which could
restrict the ease of movement of vehicles on or off the site, or cause
problems for the mobility impaired.
5.14
The site can also be easily serviced as required by refuse collection vehicles
or delivery vehicles.
Sustainable Transport
5.15
The site is set in a relatively accessible position in respect of access via noncar modes of transport, as it is located within acceptable cycling distance of
Nannerch and other local villages, and just within reasonable walking
distance (at 35 minutes). Regular bus services are also available on the A541
allowing easy access to key local settlements such as Denbigh and Mold, and
regular rail services are available at Buckley train station. As such the site is
ideally placed to foster the adoption of non-car modes of transport by its
occupiers.
6.0
POLICY
6.1
The requirement for showing compliance with relevant policies as regards a
Design and Access Statement are given under clause 4 (b) and clause 5 (a) of
the Town and Country Planning (General Development Procedure)
(Amendment) (Wales) Order 2009.
6.2
The relevant policies in respect of this application are contained within the
Flintshire Unitary Development Plan. The proposal complies with the
general preferences within the plans in terms of the design and accessibility
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of the proposal. Specifically the proposal will comply with the following
polices which relate to design & accessibility:GEN1 - a. The proposal will “harmonise” with the site and
surroundings in terms of its siting, scale, design, layout, use of
natural cladding materials, and use of space as it will reflect the
existing situation and likely future replacement unit on the site (and
development in the area) in terms of the nature of development that
is proposed. The proposed materials and external appearance of the
proposal are also suitable, and indeed would be an improvement
from the existing situation. No changes are proposed in respect of
landscaping as the existing arrangements are considered to be
acceptable; b. The scheme has been designed to provide a safe and
secure development, which will ensure the security of occupiers and
the community; c. The proposal will not impact upon any of the
features listed in this criterion as no such features are present on or
around the site; d. It will not give rise to any of negative impacts
listed in this criterion due to the nature of the proposal; e. It will
provide safe and convenient access for pedestrians, cyclists, persons
with disabilities, and vehicles as suitable access arrangements are
proposed. Adequate and suitable parking and turning space would
also be provided as part of the proposal; f. There will be no material
impact upon the highway from the development; g. Public transport
can be accessed from the site, and there are pedestrian and cycle
access routes to local settlements;
D1 - The current design is identical to the one approved under
Planning Permission ref 053711.
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6.3
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a.The location, siting, and layout of the development would make
good use of the site. It will also not increase the need to travel, and
would provide a safe and accessible development (as shown in the
response to Policy GEN1); b. It is if of a suitable density to the
setting and ‘function’ of the development; c. It would be suited to
the “local topography, aspect, and microclimate, [development]
pattern, orientation and views”. Indeed it would improve upon the
existing situation at the site; d. It has been designed to provide a
positive and attractive building alignment and frontage; e. A suitable
level of open space is in place to serve the building, and simple and
appropriate parking arrangements are proposed. No changes are
proposed in respect of landscaping as the existing arrangements are
considered to be acceptable; f. Care has been taken in the design to
reduce use of non-renewable resources and make efficient use of
resources, and to also minimise generation of waste and pollution; g.
Suitable design information has been provided as part of the
submission that is commensurate to scale and type of the proposed
development;
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D2 - The submitted scheme is of a good standard of design in terms
of its appearance, form, scale, and materials, and as such it would
protect and enhance the character and amenity of the area;
D3 - in this case no landscaping has been proposed as the site
benefits from existing hedgerows and trees set around it, which are
considered to be suitable and acceptable for the locality;
D5 - The development will incorporate suitable security measures in
its detailed design (at building regulations stage);
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Design and Access Statement: Land at Bryn Goleu, Nannerch, CH7 5RN
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L1 - It will enhance the character and appearance of the landscape
by replacing the existing caravan, with a suitably designed
replacement building that will be a modest structure and would
feature suitable low-key materials for the locality;
L2 - a. It will represent an improvement from the existing and future
situation at the site in terms of its impact upon the natural beauty
of the AONB, and would maintain the existing situation at the site in
terms of the other criteria; b. It has been designed to a high
standard with suitable materials proposed for the site and setting.
Notwithstanding this, the proposed change in roof and wall cladding
materials to stone and slate would represent a considerable
improvement from the fallback position, where the currently
approved chalet design could utilise harsh ‘man-made’ materials and
finishes, particularly the painted metal roof finish of the currently
approved design;
WB1 - The proposal will not impact protected species or their
habitats;
AC1 - The development will also be reasonably accessible to those
with disabilities as it will provide single level accommodation, which
could be easily adapted to meet any potential occupiers needs (e.g.
through provision of access ramps at entrances etc.);
AC2 - A suitable pedestrian access will be provided within the site
onto the highway (which will be comparable with the existing
situation) and there will be no impact upon public rights of way;
AC3 - Safe and convenient cycle access will be provided (with little
change from the existing situation), and adequate space is available
within the proposal to accommodate cycle storage (external storage
could be provided if required);
AC13 - a. The approach roads to the site are of an adequate
standard and capacity to accommodate the small level of traffic that
the proposal would generate. Indeed there would be no material
increase as a result of the proposal from that generated by the
extant use. As such there would be no harmful impact upon public
safety or health and amenity; b. An adequate and safe access is
proposed onto the highway. This would be an improvement from the
existing arrangements at the site;
AC14 - As such the proposal will not generate sufficient volumes of
traffic to warrant the provision of traffic calming;
AC18 - The proposed parking arrangements will meet the
requirements of Policy AC18 as sufficient parking spaces are
proposed to meet the maximum parking standards set out in the
policy;
T3 - a. It will be appropriate in terms of its scale, type and
character to the site and setting (as set out earlier in this
statement); b. There will be no adverse impact upon the amenity of
local residents users of nearby land or property, or the community in
general. Indeed there would be no material change in this respect
from the existing situation; c. The site is reasonably accessible by
non-car modes of transport; d. There would be no adverse impact
upon the landscape, and indeed there would be an improvements
from the impact allowed by the existing CLU. There would also be no
impact upon sites of nature conservation or historic value;
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EWP2 - The development has been designed to minimise its energy
use, and indeed it will be a considerable improvement from the
existing or any future caravan on the site.
6.4
TAN12 – Design and Planning Policy Wales have also been assessed and their
advice incorporated into the submitted design.
6.5
A summary of the specific planning issues raised by this application is
provided within the covering letter which should be read in conjunction
with this Design and Access Statement
End.
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