Extension allowed now timber cladding included

The application was for a single-storey extension at the St Julian’s Weighbridge, which is a protected building.

The original plans sparked debate over the appearance, which was quite angular, and planners initially deferred the application over the composite cladding.

‘Concerns are raised over the use of a composite material (made up of timber and plastic) on such a prominent building and location,’ they said in the report.

‘The use of composite cladding in this context is not considered appropriate, nor would it achieve a high enough standard of architectural design to respect the special interest of the protected building, nor the character and appearance of the conservation area.

‘It is therefore necessary for this material be conditioned out of the scheme and replaced with a more suitable material for these sensitive surroundings.’

This led the agents to omit the composite cladding in a revision in March and instead adopt a natural timber cladding, which would be finished in grey.

The proposals attracted eight objections, raising concerns about the design and how it would not fit in with the surroundings.

The planners agreed that the proposed extension would contrast with the existing structures, but felt it respected the traditional architecture.

‘The proposal does not attempt to replicate the scale, mass, form or materiality of the Weighbridge tower, and is “read” as a juxtaposing addition to the building,’ they said.

‘While the building is different to the original design of the tower, and traditional buildings within the conservation area, it does not represent significant harm to the fabric of the protected building, its setting, nor the character and appearance of the conservation area to reasonably justify refusal.’

The planners felt the extension would have positive benefits to the vitality of Town by introducing a covered dining area to support and expand the cafe/restaurant.

‘This positive contribution to the vitality of the main centre is a key focus of the IDP and outweighs any minor effect the structure will have on these sensitive surroundings,’ they said.