Planning Statement with Appendices

In developing these plans, we spent a significant amount of time researching the appearance of other chapels on the Isle of Man, including conducting research within the National Library and Archives.

We sourced an arch lintel from a specialist manufacturer and had the new feature arched gable window specially made at significant expense. This development reintroduced a traditional feature to the gable of the building, which had previously been lost.

At the same time, we introduced Velux windows to both the front and rear of the property, taking care to ensure that ‘conservation style’ was used at further significant expense.

3. Planning Application 07/02158/B

In developing the plans for planning application number 07/02158/B, we again set out to develop plans which respected the integrity of the building as a former chapel.

We considered that the existing flat roof dormer and separate flat roof balcony, which have been in place over 20 years, set a precedent. These form part of the ‘existing design’ of the building.

We also spent time reviewing extensions to properties in the surrounding area, and found that flat roof extensions are commonplace in Glen Auldyn and in neighbouring properties, the nearest being located opposite, at ‘The Cottage’.

Taking into account the existing balcony and flat roof extension to ‘The Old Chapel’, together with the flat roof extensions to neighbouring properties, we consider the proposed development to be in keeping.

4. Incorporation of ‘Chapel Style’ features

In developing the plans for the proposed extension, further careful consideration was given to:

• Replacing the existing modern style entrance door to a new entrance door within the proposed extension, incorporating a design which is in keeping with the design of the chapel through both opening style and incorporation of arched glasswork.
• Removing the existing balcony railings and installing bespoke railings, again incorporating the arched design within the metalwork.
• Replicating the design of the original extension windows within the design of the proposed extension.

As a result of the above, the development continues to provide the appearance of a chapel, whilst enhancing the available living space, and providing usable open space through the

balcony above (there is no prospect in achieving this through extensions to the rear or gables to the property, the land to which is owned by neighbouring properties).

It is our view that other chapel conversions on the Isle of Man have not been developed as sensitively as our proposals for 'The Old Chapel' – for example appendices figure 4 shows a chapel conversion in Colby, in which traditional features such as arched windows and hinged doors have not been incorporated.

5. Conclusion

To conclude, we believe that the proposed development at 'The Old Chapel' should be permitted on the basis that it:

• Is highly sensitive towards the nature of the building and surroundings;
• Is in keeping with the existing property design including the current balcony and existing flat roof dormer extension;
• Sensitively incorporates traditional 'chapel style' features including arched widows, arched railings and hinged feature doors;
• Will provide usable open space through enlargement of the existing balcony; and
• Will enhance the living space within the property, which is currently below standard.

We would welcome you to take the opportunity to visit the property, and would suggest a visit inside the property would be beneficial, particularly to understand the restricted living accommodation within.

Should you wish to undertake such a visit, please do not hesitate to contact us by telephoning 07624 421009 or 07624 499183. Yours faithfully Mr D R Popelier and Miss L C Radcliffe cc. Penketh Millar, 23 West Quay, Ramsey, Isle of Man.

Figures 1a to 1d—view of property as purchased in 2006

Figure 2—showing new gable window and conservation style velux windows

Figure 3—internal view from new feature gable window Figure 4 – Countryside Chapel conversion with balcony in Colby, Isle of Man. {{image:570891}}