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DETAIL
The committee discussed this
application at the meeting last night. As the previous
application has been withdrawn, we have not referred back to the
original drawings and the information included with this
application is not adequate enough to give a proper
consideration, but we have reviewed what has been submitted on
the basis that full plans will be available in due course.
They have asked me to convey the following points to you:
1) The proposals look interesting and should add to the
amenities of the town, we do not object to them.
2) The use of materials is an important aspect of the finished
built form and will dictate how it sits within the context of
the surrounding buildings and Whitehorse Street. We would expect
the finish to reflect the surrounding building finishes to an
extent, but concentrating on enhancing the area and on
traditional materials. Particular care should be taken with the
use of colour. In addition, extensive use of reclaimed materials
would seem appropriate.
3) As this is in the area of the Town Centre Enhancement scheme
and conservation area, we would expect this to be taken into
consideration in the detailed design to ensure the development
compliments the overall scope of the enhancement works .
4) Any signage, located on view from Whitehorse Street,
indicating the location of the finished units off Whitehorse
Street, must be carefully designed and not detract from the
historic nature of the area.
5) All other matters such as lighting, parking and access we
leave to the council to decide.
6) Regarding the discussion document between the conservation
Officer and the developer's agent we would like to make the
following points:
a) Parr 3. The Character of Baldock is blatantly obvious, it is
a "MARKET TOWN". Whitehorse Street is predominantly Georgian,
with a few later additions, most of which should not have been
allowed. It has not changed for years, see attached comparison
photographs, spanning the best part of 100 years.
b) Parr 4. Architecturally, Baldock has little in common with
Hitchin (narrow streets, large town square) and nothing in
common with Letchworth (a Garden City) and any comparisons are
irrelevant. Baldock has a unique street scene in the district
(and the UK) which must be protected and enhanced. Baldock can
only be considered within it's own context.
Thank you for considering our views.
Chairman
Baldock Society
(Photographs attached to
correspondence omitted from this posting)
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