East End, Newbury
Planning Potential secured planning permission for the demolition of an existing barn and creation of a much larger barn for family and guest accommodation in the grounds of an existing dwelling in the North Wessex Downs AONB.
Challenge
The site sits within the North Wessex Downs AONB and East End Conservation Area, creating a sensitive planning context for a new larger structure. Rare barbastelle bats were found using the building, adding ecological complexity. The planning case needed to maximise the built form possible while respecting the sensitive heritage and landscape setting.
Approach
Close investigation of the planning history revealed a historic permission for a coach house which was implemented to maximise the built form of the new barn. Planning Potential worked closely with architects on design and heritage advice, and engaged closely with ecologists to design appropriate bat mitigation for the rare barbastelle bats. Iterative positive pre-application discussions were held with Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council.
Outcome
Delegated approval secured for the new larger barn for family and guest accommodation. Bat mitigation design supported by the Council's ecologist. The scheme respected and enhanced the AONB and Conservation Area setting while maximising development potential through creative use of planning history.