Retrospective Application Commentary

Commentary on 19/00361/CUD

The purpose of the alterations was to provide an improved single access to the church premises. The [right-hand] entrance [RHE] is wider, lighter, better looking and easier for disabled access. A number of "wheelie-bins" had been situated adjacent to the RHE; these were considered unsightly and it was considered the wooden screen would reduce the negative visual aspect. A hand-rail to assist access for all abilities was planned. A visit has been made to Building Control Office at Douglas Corporation [Nick Kaighin]-he has reviewed the photos \& drawings and confirmed that an application to his office is NOT necessary. During a meeting with duty planning officer on 17th January the contrast between the stone façade and wooden "screen" [n a conservation area] was explained. A request was made to consider relocating the bins - a number of photos are included with this submission and having considered access to other parts of the "foot-print", ease of collection we do not consider this is practical. Also see S\&C drawing 10-02 site plan. We would be guided by the department as to whether the wooden screen should remain [and if so whether to be left "natural", stained, or painted to match door colour] or be removed. NOTE: Passers-by have commented on the improved visual aspect created by screen. The bins have been mentioned at the start in this covering note as it influences the detail of the reinstatement. The Finance \& Property Committee at the Church regret the oversight in not submitting an application prior to the works and apologise for any inconvenience. It is our intention to reinstate in line with the "Proposed plan" S\&C 10-02; much of the original material has been retained notably the gates, railings, coping stones and the lantern redundant standard \& base. We wish to retain the combined ramp access so the "return wall" [mounting lantern standard] will be a maximum 1.5 m [if 1 m were acceptable access would be further improved]. The wall adjacent to pavement will be returned to original state so that wrought iron gates can be re-installed; some minor alteration may be required to double gates to allow them to swing above "ramp". The drawing specifies a handrail to be installed at the same time as allowing bin-crew access for collection. The wrought iron work [gates \& railing] has suffered much

weathering for more 100 years; a project is being considered to upgrade their appearance retaining originals. No time scale has been agreed at the time of submission. The Committee respectfully submit this retrospective application in the believe that once complete as much as possible of the original has been preserved whilst enhancing the entrance both visually \& for all-ability access,