  
PLANNING DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT 1. Summary This report has been produced to accompany an application for Full Plans Approval and complies with current guidance on planning submissions as set out by DLGC. 1. Introduction This application seeks to replace a non-descript bungalow dating from the 1950’s (see right) with a modern contemporary home that takes advantage of views over the Solent while respecting the context of recent new homes in the area which are making this part of Cowes an Architecturally vibrant area. The following photos show some of the recent developments in the Cowes/Gurnard area that have been approved and this application follows the genre. Generally speaking the built form features a large gable frontage facing the view, this house type dates back to the early 20th century. This application replaces a previous Householder Extension application because it is now proposed to completely replace the existing structure and centre it on the plot. The new dwelling respects the existing front and rear building lines established by the bungalow it replaces and neighbouring properties. The proposed replacement dwelling is centred on the plot leaving a gap of 1.3m to the boundary on either side in line with the established pattern of development in the area. A gap of at least 1m is commonly accepted as a reasonable set back from a boundary in sub-urban contexts such as this. The proposal is built to a height established by the approval of TCP/27126/A at 70 Baring Road subsequently used to justify the two new houses adjacent at 74 and 74a Baring Road TCP/13289/F 2. Contextual Analysis Baring Road sweeps in a large curvature following the historic boundary of the ancient extent of Northwood Park. The properties comprise of a mixture of styles and the relationship of height and mass varies between one, two and three storey properties with the properties set well back form the road. There is a strong pattern of ribbon development, with the majority of properties lining up. Our proposal respects this. The front stone wall is a dominant feature along Baring Road and there are a number of tall trees near the site that offer references to height. A Monterey Pine, subject to a Tree Preservation Order graces nearby 70 Baring Road. The eastern end of Baring Road also offers spectacular views across the Solent A number of nearby properties have taken advantage of this by incorporating high level glazed features and/or balconies. Cowes itself benefits from a significant number of properties that have been designed specifically to benefit from the views on offer. There is also a common trait in this locality of utilising the roof space for accommodation, both historically and more recently. The application site slopes gradually south from Baring Road up to the rear of the site with Cowes Golf Course beyond. To the west is 78 Baring Road, a large chalet bungalow which virtually fills the width of its plot building up to the boundaries on both sides. To the East is 74a Baring Road, one of the pair of new 3 storey houses recently constructed. Our proposal mediates in height between these two dwellings with the use of its prominent glazed gable feature. Unfortunately, there are many examples of poor quality twentieth century development along Baring Road and as a result of this, the varying design and inconsistent use of materials there is no specific style or character attributable to this area. However, if pushed to characterise the area, the most common trait is indeed the diverse range and mixed street scene with a mixture of style, mass and varying height, which create interest. Our proposal picks up on some recent themes that have improved the visual interest in the area with a striking glazed gable which acts as a backdrop to a structural timber mast or tree that partially supports the external timber and steel balconies via glulam branches. The applicant is a joiner so this reference is of particular interest to him.
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