Click here to see map for location of 6 The Grove.

20/00313/FUL Erection of 7 x two bedrooms flats and 2 x three bedrooms flats and associated external works following demolition of the existing building

This is the 4th application in recent years for the proposed development of this property, situated in this quiet corner of The Church Street Conservation Area, and has been made despite a previous application having been permitted.

The Society has objected strongly to the proposal, since the proposed block of flats effectively changes the nature of The Grove from single detached period houses to bland flats. The rhythm of the streetscape is currently double plot for multiple occupancy and single for detached/single dwellings. The positioning of all the buildings in The Grove/CA are dictated by the setting of the listed Grove House.

The height and bulk of the flats is out of keeping with the surrounding Conservation Area, and the proposal would again result in the loss of the majority of the existing trees and shrubs, leading overall to substantial reduction in green space and biodiversity.

The Society recommended refusal, for reasons of inappropriate backland development, harm to streetscene, Conservation Area detraction, significant harm to neighbouring living conditions (loss of light, noise, disturbance), non compliance with housing mix and the retention of trees.

See our letter, here.