Agenda and minutes

R. Lawrence (Vice Chair), P. Ellis (VS), D. Fountain (LSA), S. Hartshorne (TCS), S. Bowyer (LCS), S. Sharma (DMU), M. Davies (RICS).

None.

The Minutes of the meeting held on 16^th October 2024 are attached and the Panel is asked to confirm them as a correct record.

The Panel agreed the notes.

The Director of Planning, Development and Transportation submits a report on planning applications received for consideration by the Panel.

A) Pre-app relating to 23 St Johns Road

The panel welcomed this pre-app and commented that the proposal had been the result of considered design development. Comments were made regarding the uniqueness of the structure, in particularly suggesting the proposal’s massing and scale would appropriately convey that the proposed development is a new addition to the Conservation Area. There were also positive comments from the panel regarding the addition’s impact on the streetscene.

As the site would no longer house a garage and may therefore not require vehicular access, the suggestion was made that the proposed boundary treatment should be carefully considered to ensure it enhances the Conservation Area. In addition, the proposed frontages within the primary elevation were discussed. Comments were made assessing the suitability of the large windows within the streetscene. Note was made of the extensive large bays that characterise much of the Conservation Area. Concern was raised about use internally adjacent to the large windows and whether the larges expanses of glass would work for the occupant. As such, it was recommended that the windows should be given more thought, to ensure the most appropriate solution is found.

A discussion took place regarding the retention of the chimneys. The value and high number of the features in the wider area was raised. It was considered that the chimneys impact on the streetscene was important, even though it’s original use may have passed. There was some discussion on the contemporary context of sustainability; however, it was pointed out that new uses have been found for chimneys and the fireplaces they serve. The panel welcomed seeing a further application in due course.

B) Pre-app relating to 73 Church Gate

The panel welcomed this pre-app and reference was made of the important cultural part that the site has played within the city. It was established that the proposal would have minimal impact on the Conservation Area, due to limited views of it from the public realm of Church Gate. However, there was particular reference on the proposal’s potential impact from Short Street. In addition, there were some positive comments towards the Mansard Style roof, adding that whilst not common within Leicester, it would be a welcome addition to the streetscene. Due to the existing poor state of the roof, it was discussed that in most cases any replacement would benefit what was regarded as a forgotten street within the city and subsequently a view into the setting of the Conservation Area.

The panel made no comments on the following:

107 Granby Street

Planning Application 20241513

Change of use from student accommodation (Sui-Generis) at part-ground floor, first–fourth floors to hotel (C1)

53 Church Gate

Planning Application 20241737

Installation of shopfront to front of shop (Class E)

34 Lee Street

Planning Application 20241306

Retrospective application for installation of ventilation flue at rear of ground floor bakery shop (Class E)

210 East Park Road

Planning Application 20241554

Construction of single storey rear extension; rear dormer extension; alterations to  ...  view the full minutes text for item 288.