Riverview, Ross on Wye

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Category: Commercial Developments
Location: Ross on Wye
Client: Private
The brief: Apex were engaged to secure planning consent for a new six-apartment scheme after a previous scheme from another architectural practice was refused. Working with ‘Zesta Planning’ our task involved overcoming the previous refusal and a dismissed appeal case by working closely with the Local Planning Authority, Herefordshire County Council, to develop a scheme that would gain approval.
Key features:

The approved design is a monolithic form with a contemporary twist, featuring repetitive form windows that resonate with the historic properties along the street. The building maintains a consistent eaves line, adhering to height restrictions relative to adjacent terraced properties.

Our role:

Collaborative Engagement: We partnered with Zesta Planning to navigate the complexities of the planning process. We engaged in various meetings with the Planning and Conservation officers at Plough Lane to address concerns and explore viable options.

Addressing Conservation Concerns: The Conservation Officer’s resistance to a more bold and contemporary design with features such as roadside facing dormers or gables posed a significant design challenge. We focused on creating a scheme that would align with the historical context and meet the stringent criteria set by the Conservation Officer.

Innovative Design Approach: We developed a monolithic form design infused with a modern touch, incorporating repetitive window patterns that harmonise with the historic architecture along the street. This approach ensured the design preserved a uniform eaves line and complied with height limitations in relation to the neighbouring terraced properties.

Successful Planning Consent: After a thorough pre-planning process and iterative design development, we achieved the support of both the planning officer and the Conservation Officer.

Outcome

In Spring 2024, we proudly secured planning consent for the new six-apartment scheme, overcoming significant design and regulatory challenges.

The successful planning consent marks a significant achievement in transforming a previously rejected scheme into an approved project. We are now focused on developing the detailed design package in collaboration with various consultants to facilitate the construction phase.

This project exemplifies our ability to tackle complex planning challenges, engage effectively with regulatory authorities, and deliver innovative design solutions that respect historical contexts while meeting modern needs. We look forward to the successful development and realisation of this six-apartment scheme.

Consultants

Architecture & Planning:   Apex Architecture Ltd
Planning Consultants:   Zesta Planning
Structural Engineer:   Davidson Walsh
Ecologist:   Clarke Webb Ecology
Main Contractors:   TBC

Timeline: Appointed: Spring 2022. Pre-Planning: Spring 2022-Spring 2023. Planning consent: Spring 2024. Building Regulations: TBC. Construction: TBC