Through the work of the sub-committee, the Society has been instrumental in saving many buildings of note including Addington Square, Denmark Hill Station and part of Windsor Walk. The Society has also been instrumental in influencing new development to make a positive contribution to the area, and works with local residents and tenants groups where there are common issues. The current composition of the Planning sub-committee is: Tim Gaymer, Anthony Kyrke-Smith, Elizabeth Borowiecka, Jason Leech, Robert Potz, Jonathan Hunt, Paul Cohoon, Somayya Yaqub, Michael Galt and Tom Harvey. Potential new members are welcome to attend a meeting as an observer initially. The Society is currently under represented by members from the Myatt Fields and Brunswick Park areas.
19/AP/6313 | 59B DENMARK HILL, LONDON, SE5 8RS
Erection of a 1st floor extension; and 2nd floor mansard roof extension, with roof terrace to facilitate a change of use from office space (Use Class B1) to residential space (Use Class C3) to create: x1 ground floor 1-bed flat; x1 1st floor 2-bed flat; and x1 2nd floor 1-bed flat.
CHANGE OF USE OF FIRST AND SECOND FLOOR OF APPROVED SCHEME REF 17/AP/1108
The building was part of an industrial block partially removed due the construction of near residential estate.
It has an “L” shape plan two story high and flat roof.
The first floor is setback from the main front, and it’s arranged over two different levels.
External façade materials are bricks for the front of the building and render for the side and rear.
The building is currently vacant. Occasionally the ground floor is used as rehearsal hall for a faith community and first floor is used as storage space.
The applicant/agent puts forward that the design of the scheme is the result of a sensitive and considered approach to the site and its context.
Amongst the benefits to be derived from the realization of the scheme are:
• Revitalization of a neglected urban spot.
• Increase in natural surveillance on the surrounding area.
• Local employment opportunities
• Requalification of the existing building
• Balanced street elevation
• Responding to the high demand of residential unit in the area
Whilst I think the residential use of the site is acceptable, what is shown is large windows directly onto the pavement/frontage and quite large windows to the side tucked away and directly accessible from the pavement area turning into that recess. There is talk about security and “secure by design” but no evidence in what I could see.
Visually I think the additionally storey would be better with proper brick or rendered walls both sides rather than slate clad vertical surfaces. This may be something that was agreed as part of the approved 17/AP/1108 office use scheme simply carried forward.
Proposed comment – to make a neutral comment