On Your Marks, Get Set, Go!
DMP Achieve Planning for NEW Swimming Block
Good News, DMP have received on behalf of West Heath School, Sevenoaks granted planning permission from Sevenoaks District Council.
Planning achieved for the replacement enclosure to existing swimming pool, construction of additional changing room, viewing area and baby pool with associated changing rooms.
A point of interest is that the main school building is designated as a grade II listed building. The site formally housed the school where Lady Diana Spencer attended. The school is located within the Metropolitan Green Belt, Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and an Area of Archaeological Potential.
DMP called upon the services via our Approved Supplier list for an Arboricultural Report as the proposed works are adjacent to a large Wellingtonia tree that is protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO).
The Clients Brief
The clients brief is to demolish and replace the school’s existing single storey swimming pool enclosure, erected in 1989. In addition, provide further facilities by extending the building. The proposal also includes the installation of 136 solar photo voltaic cells. Installed to the south facing roof pitch of the existing school sports hall, erected in 1986.
The proposed building itself will extend by approx. 57% in floor area (335.5m2 ) and by 1070m3 (77.4%) in volume terms to allow for additional facilities. The Planning Officer recognises that although there would be an increase in the building mass, the overall change to the building volume would be of a scale that would not be disproportionate.
DMP purposely designed a roof design to have shallow roof pitches to assist in limiting the developments mass. In addition, the fact the building lies against a quite substantial and taller building, the Sports Hall, Planners feel the replacement building will not appear out of place.
Significantly, the new building will have a minimal effect upon the openness of the green belt area and heritage building. The proposal also includes installation of 136 Photovoltaic cells to the existing adjoining sports hall South facing roof pitch.
The schools ground lies within a designated Area of Archaeological Potential, KCC Archaeology recommends that a condition should be imposed. DMP’s Approved Suppliers enabled us to seek quotations to undertake a Desk Top study initially for approval by KCC. as part of one of the reserved planning conditions.
Furthermore, DMP have completed an initial cost appraisal. Now working with Structural and Civil Engineers to complete the tender package in readiness for tender release in late May. Our view is to commence on site in early August for completion in February 2021.
Contact Us to discuss your project or planning and architectural design needs.
Finally, to learn more about how we think, read our interesting case studies and industry news.
