Wyvern Park Grange

Cockburn Response

The Association has been asked to consider this application by one of our members, who lives in this modern tenement building in the Grange.

The principle issues of concern are twofold: the intensification of use by the subdivision of the topmost flat with the resulting impact on residential amenity; and the impact to the fenestration of a property within the Grange Conservation Area due to the proposed replacement window design.

On the first point, we have no view on the architectural merits of the proposals. However, the creation of a separate bedsit flat will result in an increase in footfall in the common stair. Although the application suggests it will be used for “long lease private residential tenancy”, there are legitimate concerns that it might be used for short-term holiday accommodation. The careful consideration of the scheme in terms of Hou 6 Inappropriate Uses in Residential Areas (Developments, including change of use, which would have a materially detrimental effect on the living conditions of nearby residents, will not be permitted) will be required. If approved, a clear statement that STL use would require a separate consent would be useful.

Furthermore, the disturbance to other residents due to the increased intensification of use due to the creation of a new flat suggests that measures should be put in place to minimise any impact. Acoustic flooring should be a minimum requirement and any pipe or waste runs should be designed to prevent any impact on neighbouring properties in the event of failure or amenity.

With regard to the proposed change in window pattern, we appreciate that this is a relatively minor alteration. However, the development at Wyvern Park was as a unified development within the Conservation Area, and we understand that attempts for other replacement window proposals not replicating the original have been refused in the past. As such, we strongly advise that a ‘like for like’ replacement window be required for this proposal.