Agenda and minutes

There were no declarations of interest stated.

Resolved:-   That the minutes of the previous meeting held on 12^th          

January 2016 be agreed as a correct record.

Resolved:               That the decisions on applications previously considered by this Working Party be received.

Resolved:-That the following observations be made on the applications listed below:-

Wood Lane Methodist Church, High Street, Wood Lane, Newcastle. 15/01136/FUL

The Working Party was sympathetic to the reuse of the building but is concerned over the lack of detailing and information; namely no drainage details eg, downspouts which will impact on the external appearance of the building and no vents shown.  Also no details for the removal/partial removal of the front wall.  This is an important part of the character of the streetscene. The WP objects to the design of the rear windows and the front door as inappropriate for the building.

Former St Giles and St Georges, Barracks Road, Newcastle.   16/00008/FUL

The Working Party was divided on their views over the design.  It was felt by some it was a missed opportunity for a better standard of design which would enhance the area.  The detailing was poor and they wanted assurance that the quality would be a high priority by retention of the architects during the process.  There was concern over whether the Queens Gardens would be changed.  All had concerns over the plant equipment being visible on the roof with no details of the size of parapet and a missed opportunity to provide a more interesting roof (garden?).  The group want the bandstand to be retained.  There was discussion over the tunnelling effect the building will create with the new student block opposite.  Some members wanted the principal material to be brick, others favoured a redder Hollington stone, not buff as the design looked like there was a likelihood of poor weathering and staining of the building.  The character of Queens Gardens would change and loss of light and intimacy was unsympathetic to this part of the conservation area.  Some members fully supported the scheme as an exciting vibrant design which would be positive contribution to the town and to the conservation area.

13A King Street, Newcastle. 15/01144/FUL

The Working Party thinks that the return to a domestic use for this building needs to be reflected in the design of the revised doors and windows.  They should be redesigned to leave a greater distance between them and in a more appropriate material

1 Station Road, Madeley15/01142/FUL & 15/01143/LBC

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The Working Party supports the council in its approach to regularise this situation and agrees the concrete block infills on the rear almshouse wall are entirely unacceptable and the side wall infills should be rendered and painted as soon as possible.  The rooflights are inappropriate and therefore cause harm to the character and appearance of the conservation area and listed building.  They are unnecessary and should be removed or undertaken in a conservation rooflight style set flush with the roof plane.

There were no applications.

There was no Urgent Business.