Cornerstone Architects Design Statement
DESIGN STATEMENT: Vacant Land adjacent to River House, Ramsey
Applicant: Mr. T. Davis
Approval in principle is sought for a residential retirement unit for the current owners of River House, Ramsey.
Mr. and Mrs. Davis have resided at River House for the past 15 years (approximately) and have decided to retire from business interests. River House is a large detached property with a significant amount of residential accommodation attached. The property is too large for their needs.
In retirement Mr. and Mrs. Davis wish to maintain their proximity to the centre of Ramsey on the level and within easy walking distance of the shops and facilities.
The site forms part of the overall land under one ownership, it is separate and distinct in that it is fully bounded on all sides by natural boundaries which are a mixture of hedging and banks. The boundaries, and the areas within, all have mature trees set. The South aspect opens onto the Sulby River and the public footpath to the area known as Pooil Dooey, it is well screened by the mature boundary. Development proposals will respect this aspect and with careful detailing will be a pleasant addition to the vista from the footpath.
The general topography of the plot is flat with, as previously mentioned, mature boundaries and fine samples of mature planting within.
Drainage for the project is proposed to be via septic tank for the foul water connections and via soakaways for the surface water. Ramsey Town Commissioners have been consulted on a preliminary basis.
Access to the site is via a private lane over which Mr. and Mrs. Davis enjoy a non-preventative covenant for an additional plot. The access lane has recently had remedial works carried out to it by the neighbouring properties, contributed to by Mr. Davis. The egress onto the main Bowring Road affords good visibility in close proximity to a pelican crossing adjacent to the North Shore Road junction. Previously this access/egress had been used to service the now near derelict Bridge Inn. The general width of the access lane is suitable for residential use and whilst affording one side parking for residents along its length, still maintains two way traffic flows. Where the lane turns North a traffic mirror is located and the issue of speed is self governing by the nature of the layout. We submit that it is capable of accommodating a single additional residential property.
On receipt of a valid approval Mr. and Mrs. Davis will be able to consider their retirement in earnest. They look forward to your early decision in this matter.
79 Parliament Street Ramsey Isle of Man IM8 1AQ
Tel 01624 810810 Fax 01624 810811 [email protected] www.cornerstonearchitects.co.uk
RECEIVED 25 AUG 2005 DEPT OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND THE ENVIRONMENT
architects development consultants interior designers project managers planning supervisors
