Close Leece Planning Statement

Close Leece - Planning Statement

The design of the house has developed although the external appearance is subsfa8t(8)33 the game as approved under PA10/00208/B (29-Apr-2010). The changes proposed to the approved design are as follows:

1 Basement enlarged and garage repositioned.

The main changes to the design resulted from site investigations regarding soil conditions and preliminary discussions with contractors over the construction method. The site for the building is all soil, without rock, to the full depth of the proposed footings. It is therefore logical to construct the building by fully excavating the site and building the house without needing to retain soil banks (which are hazardous during construction). This is shown on the elevations and sections, drawing 25 . This is done using machines to dig a large hole with sloping sides and then after building the house, backfilling. Having made that decision, it is logical to extend the basement area to the footprint of the approved ground floor. We have also adjusted the garage to make best use of the excavation. The additional basement rooms do not alter the appearance of the building but do provide additional work spaces and storage. In the areas where it is proposed that the basement be lit by natural light this is to be achieved by setting horizontal glass panels at ground level as detailed on drawing number 24. The basement will therefore be entirely hidden from any external view point. The soil removed for the extended basement will be utilised on site.

2 Trees removed to assist construction of driveway.

We have also had further advice regarding the safe development of the site and it is suggested 5 of the existing trees on the access road are removed to allow safe working. These are indicated on the site plan in brown outline. These will be replanted with new trees on completion as part of the site management scheme being prepared with the Department of the Environment, Food and Agriculture. The tree removal has been discussed with Peter Keenan of DEFA on site. The large tree marked A on the site plan is retained and does obscure the proposed felling from the road. The remaining trees in the areas B and C will be carefully managed to ensure the new access does not damage their roots systems. Two of the trees being removed are already in poor condition and no significant tree is removed during the work.

3 Kitchen window added below existing bathroom window on rear elevation.

This allows the main window to be fixed glazing which will assist the thermal efficiency of the building.

4 Solar collectors and provision for photovoltaic arrays on south facing roof.

This has been recommended as part of the environmental package.

5 Drainage revised.

The repositioning of the drainage makes more efficient use of the required excavations.

6 Temporary access created for construction machinery.

This has been suggested for site health and safety and will be removed on completion.

7 Minor internal modifications.