Friends of Lewes Planning Committee Report – 3rd July 2024

Representations made on planning applications following the meeting of the Planning Committee held on 3rd July 2024

3/6/24 to 28/6/24:

SDNP/24/02292/FUL: 64 High Street: Change of use of part of ground/lower floor and first and second floors to 4 residential units together with alterations to the roof to create a new third floor for a further residential unit. Alterations to side and rear elevations to replace windows and doors, various changes to rear parking to create amenity space, parking and ancillary facilities.

The Friends of Lewes object to this application for the following reasons:-

(1) The Society is concerned about the proposed significant reduction of commercial floor space on the ground and lower ground floors, as the Society considers that it is important to maintain options for future commercial uses fronting the High Street at this important location.

(2) The Society acknowledges that there is potential for residential units on the first and second floors.

(3) However, the Society objects to the proposed alterations to the roof to create a new third floor for a further residential unit as this would result in an unacceptable roof profile, when viewed from a number of local vantage points, including the Castle. In this respect the Society endorses the recommendations of the Conservation Officer.

(4) It is not clear whether the two parking spaces to be retained at the rear would continue to be solely for the commercial use at ground floor, resulting in no parking provision for any of the proposed residential units.

(5) Although some provision has been made for cycle storage to the rear of the property, the space would appear to be cramped and access to the storage of individual cycles restricted.

(6) No space provided has been allocated at the rear of the property for the provision of both refuse and recycling wheelie bins for either the retained commercial use, or for the proposed residential units. In this respect, the Society suggests that the proposed amenity space be abandoned in order to avoid any wheelie bins being located in the High Street at the front of the building.

SDNP/24/01177/HOUS: 7 Berkeley Row: Single storey side extension.

The Friends of Lewes appreciate that this proposal is minor and consider it unfortunate that it would both be clearly visible from Berkley Row and limit future access to the rear garden. The Society would therefore like to suggest that it would be beneficial if the extension could be set further back from the frontage of the house and that the finish of the extension should try to match the original house. It would also be beneficial if a new access to the rear garden could be achieved via the adjacent footway to the west of the house.

SDNP/24/02347/FUL: 3 South Street: Erection of single storey rear extension, extension to the existing cellar, replacement of outrigger roof, replacement of pitched roof window, lowering of rear boundary wall and external renovation.

The Friends of Lewes object to this application for the following reasons:-

(1) This dwelling is located within Flood Zone 2 and was flooded in the 2000 Lewes Flood, together with a significant number of other buildings in the adjacent South Street / Cliffe High Street area.

(2) Within this context, the Society is concerned about any proposal to excavate below ground in this area in order to either increase the size or to lower the floor level of existing cellars, which should be used for storage purposes only and should not be considered as possible ‘habitable space’.

(3) Indeed, the Society is concerned about the impact of the proposed excavation works on adjacent buildings, in terms of both the likely vibration and the risk to structural stability.

(4) Of particular concern is no.1 South Street, (known as the Bag of Books), which is Grade II listed.

SDNP/24/02356/FUL: Liquid Studio, St Andrews lane: Conversion and extension of existing detached office building for use as a single family dwelling including construction of boundary treatments.

The Friends of Lewes are currently unable to support this application, due to the following concerns:-

(1) Whilst the retention of the existing office building is to be welcomed, the Society is not convinced that the metal structure would be capable of conversion and adaptation due to its current condition.

(2) The Society considers that the proposed design could make an interesting ‘stand alone’ scheme, but is not convinced that it would be appropriate within the Conservation Area and being located so close to a number of Grade II Listed buildings.

(3) The Society is concerned about the successful retention of a number of mature trees along the northern boundary of the site that are likely to have to be cut back during the construction process.

(4) The Society is particularly concerned about the need to successfully protect the mature lime tree on the St Andrews Lane street frontage, which is currently subject to a TPO.

(5) Given its high profile location, The Society would like the opportunity to assess the detail of the proposed elevations with the benefit of larger scale drawings.

(6) The Society is also concerned about the appropriateness of the external materials proposed within the Conservation Area, and in particular the choice of a copper standing seam roof.

(6) The Society also considers that it would be beneficial if the entrance to the proposed dwelling could be clearly visible from the St Andrews street frontage.

The Committee examined the following applications and had no observations to make:

SDNP/24/02448/FUL & 02449/LIS: 1 Market Street:	Replacement of existing timber casement and sash windows with like-for-like timber units.
SDNP/24/02560/TEL: 223-224 High Street:	Installation of fixed line broadband electronic communications apparatus under Regulation 5, detailed as 60 meters cable on wall.
SDNP/24/02443/HOUS: 27 Hamsey Crescent:	Single storey rear extension to create an open plan kitchen and dining space, conversion of remaining garage storeroom, installation of Air Source Heat Pump and raised terrace deck.
SDNP/24/02433/FUL: Flat 2, 34 King Henry’s Road:	Replacement windows, one with patio door, new railings and ladder rungs to two basement lightwells and two new extract outlets.
SDNP/24/02400/LIS: 140 High Street:	Replacement of 2 no. french door sets with associated side panels and top lights to rear extension.
SDNP/24/02397/HOUS: 16 St John’s Terrace:	Replace existing single storey outrigger and conservatory with single storey extension, rear roof pitched dormer and add two conservation type windows to front roof slope and fenestration alterations.
SDNP/24/02352/HOUS: 13 Garden Street:	Replacement of all timber windows to front of property.
SDNP/24/02264/HOUS: The Red House, Rotten Row:	Part Section 73A retrospective application for replacement of rear fenestration, and application for replacement of side and rear doors and addition of 1no.window to rear.
SDNP/24/02277/HOUS: 4 Wellhouse Place:	Erection of rear dormer, alterations to rear fenestration and relocation of rear access steps.
SDNP/24/02195: 16 Cluny Street:	Erection of rear conservatory.
SDNP/24/02144/FUL: 6 Mount Street:	Replacement of 5no windows to front, side and rear elevations.
SDNP/24/02132/LIS: 187 High Street:	Refurbishment and replacement works to basements and ground floor levels of property.
SDNP/24/02066/FUL: Bowling Green, Castle Precincts:	Erection of wooden shed to store maintenance equipment, shed to be painted green.
SDNP/24/01992/FUL: Flats 3-30, Malling Close:	Replacement of doors and windows to flats 3-6, 7-18 and 19-30 including communal areas of the three blocks.
SDNP/24/01886/HOUS: 1 Manor Terrace, Potters Lane:	Replacement of existing chimney.
SDNP/24/01789/FUL: Sussex Downs College, Southover Building, Mountfield Road:	Erection of portakabin in rear car park area of South building, with separate waste and grey water tank.

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Friends of Lewes Planning Committee Report – 5 June 2024

Representations made on planning applications following the meeting of the Planning Committee held on 5 June 2024

Week 30 April to 03 June 2024

SDNP/24/01839/HOUS: 25 Gundreda Road: Hip to gable roof extension, Erection of a rear dormer and addition of 2no. front rooflights.

The Friends of Lewes object to the principle of losing both hips to the existing roof and its replacement with two smaller gables effectively raising the height of the existing ridge, as it is considered to be visually detrimental to the street scene. In addition, the design of the large rear box dormer does not comply with the agreed ‘Design Principles’ for dormers in existing roofs.

SDNP/24/01863/HOUS: 58 St Pancras Road: Air source heat pump to front.

The Friends of Lewes object to the provision of an air source heat pump to the front of a detached dwelling within the Conservation Area, as the Society considers that this would set a ‘precedent’ for other similar planning applications within the neighbourhood. The Society would also like to comment that the majority of dwellings in the adjacent Grange Road are terraced, and the provision of any air source heat pumps would be expected to be provided to the rear of the properties.

SDNP/24/01806/HOUS: 25 South Way: Single storey side extension.

The Friends of Lewes consider that the appearance of this proposed side extension would be improved if it was set back from the existing front elevation of the main house structure, even if this results in a small reduction in the size of the extension.

SDNP/24/01995/FUL: Builders Yard, Timberyard Lane: Erection of 2no residential dwellings and associated landscaping.

The Friends of Lewes object to this proposal. The Friends of Lewes also objected to a previous proposal in 2023, which was subsequently withdrawn. Whilst this proposal would allow improved distant views through the site from Morris Road, there is still no allowance for any pedestrian link though the site, which the Society previously suggested, in order to improve access to the town centre for local residents. Furthermore, the Society considers that blank façade of the proposed house ‘A’ would be totally inappropriate at the end of Morris Road, due to both its size and contemporary design, lack of suitable detailing and use on non-traditional materials.

SDNP/24/02204/LDE: Garden Street Auction Rooms, Garden Street: Implementation of planning permission SDNP/18/05444/FUL (allowed at Appeal-3256462) for redevelopment of ‘former auction rooms’ into ten residential units comprising two no. two-bed split-level apartments, four no. three-bedroom houses and four no. four-bedroom houses, prior to confirmation of discharge of pre-commencement conditions.

The Friends of Lewes object to this application. The Society objected to the original application, (SDNF/18/05444/FUL), raising a number of concerns regarding the inappropriate design of the proposal with regard to its setting, impact on both the immediate Conservation Area and to longer views of the development site within the wider context.

The Society is also aware of the design constraints associated with the possible development of this site and in particular the 1200cm Storm Drain plus 5metre exclusion zone on either side of the storm drain, which passes across the site, having a particular impact on both “Units 1 and 5”, as indicated on the “Setting Out” site drawing.

Given these constraints, should it be possible to construct the approved design without any modifications, the Society suggests that this application for a “Lawful Development Certificate” may be possible to support.

However, should the approved scheme require any amendments or modifications, the Society would like to suggest that a new planning application may be required.

The Committee examined the following applications and had no observations to make:

SDNP/24/SDNP/24/01910/HOUS & 01911/LIS: 80B High Street./CND: 38 Western Road.	Installation of timber decking and glass balustrade on roof.
SDNP/24/01537/HOUS: 10 Hill Road.	Erection of detached garage to front, Erection of front porch and erection of single storey rear extension.
SDNP/24/01742/LIS: Flat 3, 39-40 High Street.	Internal alterations to layout.
SDNP/24/01652/HOUS: 9-10 Pelham Terrace.	Erection of flat roof rear dormer, addition of 8no.solar panels to rear, installation of 2no. rear patio doors and no.2 front rooflights, replacement of fenestration to all elevations and repainting of front and rear render.
SDNP/24/01999/HOUS & 02000/LIS: 117 High Street.	Extension to rear lightwell, stone and glazed bridge, remove brick piers, extension of iron railing.
SDNP/24/01979/HOUS: 10 Gundreda Road.	Demolition of existing conservatory and erection of a single storey rear extension.
SDNP/24/01692/LIS: 182 High Street.	Creation of new maintenance access hatches, replacement of patent glazing system in east lightwell, replacement of 2no. casement windows in east lightwell and possible replacement of 9no. vertical sash windows.

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Friends of Lewes Planning Committee Report – 1 May 2024

Representations made on planning applications following the meeting of the Planning Committee held on 1 May 2024

Week 04 April to 24 April 2024

SDNP/24/00729/FUL: 4 Bear Yard: Partial demolition of existing storage building, conversion of existing ground floor and construction of a new first floor with pitched roof to form a self- contained accommodation unit:

The Friends of Lewes object to this proposal for the following reasons:-
(1) That the proposal is located within a flood zone close to the River Ouse.
(2) The proposal is considered to be both poor design and of mean proportions, offering very cramped areas of accommodation.
(3) There is no outdoor amenity space, no readily accessible storage for a bicycle and apparently nowhere to store refuse and recycling bins without leaving them on the public highway.
(4) The Society is also concerned about the potential noise from the shared wall with the John Harvey Tavern.

SDNP/24/00843/FUL: Pannetts Building Railway Lane: Extensions and alterations to provide retail use at ground floor and part of first floor and conversion of other areas to provide 1x 3 bed flat, 5x 2 bed flats and 1x duplex flat with external terrace and alteration to the existing roof, (2x units to be affordable):

The Friends of Lewes objected to the previous planning application, Ref: SDNP/23/02568/FUL, which was refused. Regrettably, many of the Society’s previous concerns have not been addressed in this revised planning application and consequently the Friends of Lewes object to this application for the following reasons:-
(1) Although the Society welcomes the retention of commercial uses on the ground floor and on part of the first floor, there is inadequate storage space for bicycles, rubbish bins and recycling bins for any of the future occupants of the flats.
(2) The location of the additional tower structure to accommodate the proposed lift is considered to be too close to the adjacent Vipers Wharf and would have an adverse impact on a number of windows in the north elevation of Vipers Wharf, and should therefore not be supported.
(3) As a result, the Society strongly recommends that any lift should be suitably located within the existing structure of the Pannetts building, in order to enable it to provide a service to all floors.
(4) The proposed significant increase in height in order to accommodate the new duplex flat on the forth floor is considered to be unacceptable as it would result in a significant change to the profile of The existing building and in addition the roof terrace facing the river would also have an adverse visual impact on the roofline of this east elevation facing the River Ouse.

SDNP/24/00899/FUL: 14 Gundreda Road: Erection of 5 bedroom detached dwelling with new vehicle crossover:

The Friends of Lewes, whilst supporting this application, have some concerns regarding the street view with regard to the proposed ‘blank’ window at first floor and urge the applicant to install a fully glazed window on the elevation fronting the Gundreda Road. In this context, the Society appreciates that this amendment would require minor alteration to the internal layout at first floor but considers that such an amendment would be a significant improvement.

SDNP/24/01127/HOUS: 59 Grange Road: Replacement single storey side/front extension; two storey extension and single storey first floor front extension with veranda at first floor; alterations to external cladding; raised terrace to front elevation; extension of access steps to front and addition of access steps to rear garden; alteration to existing fenestrations at all elevations:

The Friends of Lewes object to this application, as the Society considers this proposal to be disappointing, lacking in detail and as such is regarded as a missed opportunity to convert the existing house into a successful contemporary home. Furthermore, the poor drawings, at a small scale, make it difficult to assess the visual impact of the proposals.

SDNP/24/01435/HOUS: 13 Garden Street: Replacement of all timber windows to front of Property:

The Friends of Lewes support the principle of installing double glazed timber windows, but strongly recommend the use of traditional joinery windows to match adjacent properties, rather than the profiles proposed by Anglian windows.

SDNP/24/01301/FUL: Priory School, Mountfield Road: Installation of perimeter security fencing to front elevation inclusive of 2no automated steel gates and 1no steel pedestrian side access gate:

The Friends of Lewes object to this proposal, as the Society considers both the proposed gates and perimeter fencing to be visually unacceptable. Indeed, the Society questions whether this initiative by the Priory School will result in annoying both local residents and users of the leisure centre and running track, who currently benefit from being able to make use of the school car park outside of school hours and especially at the weekends and during school holidays.

SDNP/24/01498/HOUS: 16 Hawkenbury Way: Rear dormer and addition of window to the side:

The Friends of Lewes object to this proposal as the design of the rear dormer does not comply with the agreed ‘Design Principles’ for dormers in existing roofs.

SDNP/24/01510/HOUS: 30 Fitzjohns Road: Erection of replacement rear extension, garage conversion and extension to loft and hip to gable conversions:

The Friends of Lewes object to the principle of losing the existing hipped roof and its replacement with a gable, as it is considered to be visually detrimental in an area dominated by hipped semi-detached houses. In addition, the design of the rear dormer does not comply with the agreed ‘Design Principles’ for dormers in existing roofs.

The Committee examined the following applications and had no observations to make:

SDNP/24/01429/CND: 38 Western Road.	Variation of condition 2 related to Planning Approval SDNP/23/04323/FUL to include amendments to loft such as installation of shower and rear roof light.
SDNP/24/01372/HOUS: 1A Offham Road.	Part section 73A retrospective application for raised rear decking, and application for erection of rear access steps to decking.
SDNP/24/01583/HOUS: 1 Priory Row, Priory Street.	Replace timber front door and surround.
SDNP/24/01362/HOUS & 01363/LIS: 212 High Street.	Reconstruction of existing chimney stack.
SDNP/24/01331/HOUS: 50 Valence Road.	Part single storey part two storey side extension.

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Friends of Lewes Planning Committee Report – 3 April 2024

Representations made on planning applications following the meeting of the Planning Committee held on 3 April 2024

Week 03 March to 01 April 2024

SDNP/24/00307/HOUS: 5 Park Road: Erection of single-storey outbuilding in side garden.

The Friends of Lewes object to the proposed location of this single storey outbuilding because it would be sited close to the Park Road frontage, which is effectively the dwelling’s front garden rather than its side garden. The Society is also concerned about the juxtaposition of the proposed outbuilding with the adjacent mature trees, which should not be adversely impacted.

SDNP/24/00390/HOUS: 25 Gundreda Road: Erection of rectangular wooden outbuilding to rear.

The Friends of Lewes are concerned about the size of the proposed outbuilding and would like to emphasise that its use should be solely as an ancillary to the existing house, rather than as a separate dwelling. The Society is also concerned about the juxtaposition of the proposed structure so close to a number of mature trees at the end of the large garden, which should not be adversely impacted.

SDNP/24/00837/HOUS: The White House Cuilfail: Single storey ground floor rear extension with first floor terrace, refurbishment of existing rear dormer, installation of external steps to garden and retaining wall with balustrade to side elevation, addition of paved pathed path to side/rear with associated landscaping, and alterations to side fenestration including addition of Juliet balcony to first floor.

The Friends of Lewes object to the design of the proposed single storey ground floor rear extension with first floor terrace and the refurbishment of the existing dormer, as the Society considers it to be unsympathetic to the design of the original house. In this context, the Society suggests that the use ‘vertical’ glazing bars in the extension, rather than ‘horizontal’, would be visibly more acceptable. Furthermore, the Society considers that the refurbishment of the existing dormer incorporating a balcony above the extension, would not only be out of scale, but may be also be visible from more distant views and from local footpaths within Cuifail.

SDNP/24/00854/HOUS: 2 Foundry Cottages: Installation of new full width dormer to front Elevation.

The Friends of Lewes object to this proposal, as a full width dormer would adversely change the appearance of this terrace of three houses when viewed from the public realm. Furthermore, a full width dormer would also introduce additional windows within the roofscape, which would make it very ‘busy’ in appearance, and as such unacceptable.

SDNP/23/04755/HOUS & 04756/LIS: 107 High Street: External works: replace cast iron gutters like for like: replace rear timber casement window: repairs to two chimneys and rear window: replace rear outfall pipes: repaint front door: addition of swift box to front façade. Internal Works: new shower room, new kitchen units, rewiring and new power sockets, secondary glazing, timber supports in basement and around hall door, new water heater and pipework, replacement plasterwork in rear hall, replacement carpet, sanding and staining of wooden floorboards, replacement hearth tiles in front bedroom, replacement insulation in first floor storage room.

Whilst supporting in principle the range of proposed works to this important Listed Building, the Friends of Lewes object to the installation of a swift box on the front façade at such a prominent location in the High Street. The Society is aware that the swift box has already been installed, and therefore strongly recommends that the swift box be re-located on the rear or side elevation.

SDNP/24/00994/FUL: Lewes Working Mens Club Malling Street: Change of use from social club to 3no. residential units, including alterations to rear projection, hip to gable extension to the rear, addition of dormers, and associated works.

The Friends of Lewes object to this proposal as an inappropriate use of the existing building and recommends that it should be retained for community use. Furthermore, not only is the building located in an area that is likely to flood, but the Society also considers that the proposed alterations would result in an overdevelopment of the site with inadequate amenities for three dwellings.

SDNP/24/01062/ADV: 59 High Street: Replacement of 1 no Projecting signage with new 500mm, painting existing projecting sign brackets blue. Replacement of 1no fascia and 1no logo with 1no new blue fascia & 1no New 290mm logo. Replacement of 1no ATM surround and decals with new, replacement of signage with new, removal of one way arrow from wall and instead installed on pavement.

The Friends of Lewes object to the proposed removal of the one way arrow from the wall as the Society seeks to limit the number of signs cluttering the pavement and to encourage the use of signs on buildings. Furthermore, the Society recommends that the East Sussex County Council, as the local Highway Authority, should be consulted on the proposed removal of the existing one way arrow.

SDNP/24/01147/HOUS: 15 Delaware Road: Two storey side extension, single storey rear extension and addition of 1no rooflight at rear elevation.

The Friends of Lewes object to these proposed extensions as they would have an adverse visual impact on the adjacent cul-de-sac. In particular, the Society considers that if constructed the two storey flank windowless side wall would be too close to the site boundary, leaving little scope for any landscaping to be provided to mitigate its impact. In addition, the Society is concerned about how the additional rainwater run-off is to be collected.

SDNP/24/00150/FUL: Garages in Westgate Street: Change of Use from 3no garages to a workshop Classroom.

The Friends of Lewes object to the proposed change of appearance of three garages at the end of a row of nine garages, and in particular the suggested use of ‘flint panels’. However, the Society does not object to the proposed change of use and would strongly recommend that the façade should be fully glazed and each of the bays fitted with roller shutter doors to match the remaining garages.

The Committee examined the following applications and had no observations to make:

SDNSDNP/24/01181/HOUS: 21 South Street.	Single storey rear extension and replacement timber window to side elevation.
SDNP/24/01135/HOUS: 2B King Henry’s Road.	Partial conversion of integral garage; addition of 1no rooflight to ground floor roof at front elevation, sliding doors to rear and glass door to side elevation, alterations to fenestration at all elevations and recladding of front and rear elevation at first floor.
SDNP/24/01128/NMA: 1 Windover Crescent.	Non-Material Amendment to Planning Approval SDNP/23/00027/FUL to include reduction in size of 3no roof skylights, remove provision of balcony to rear elevation, replacement with single landscape window, splitting two storey feature window and relocating kitchen window.
SDNP/24/01014/FUL & 01015/LIS: 141 High Street	Erection of single storey rear extension.
SDNP/24/00999/LDP: 25 South Way.	Erection of single storey side extension to include level access shower.
SDNP/24/00473/HOUS: 15 Garden Street.	Repainting of property to rear elevation, alterations to fenestration on all elevations, replacement fencing to side/rear and rendering of brickwork, replacement of iron front gate, installation of satellite dish to chimney and installation of external lantern-style light.
SDNP/24/00423/FUL: 26 Fitzjohns Road.	Change of use from dwelling house (C3) to residential children’s home (C2), with no material change to building other than the installation of a fire alarm system.
SDNP/24/00074/HOUS & 00075/LIS: 7 Castle Banks.	Removal of lean-to and associated landscaping works.

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Friends of Lewes Planning Committee Report – 6 March 2024

Representations made on planning applications following the meeting of the Planning Committee held on 6 March 2024

Week 24 January to 04 March 2024

SDNP/23/05408/HOUS &05409/LIS: 26 Station Street: Erection of new rear sloped roof over existing structure, replacement of ground floor front windows, rear roof lights and internal alterations.

The Friends of Lewes fully support the Conservation Officer’s comments regarding the necessary works that need to be addressed. However, the Society is concerned about the proposed replacement windows on the ground floor street façade, which only have 6 panes per casement window, as opposed to 9 panes per casement window on the existing first floor windows.

SDNP/24/00453/HOUS: 4 Clare Road. Replacement of existing conservatory with single storey rear extension, hip to gable roof extension and extension of rear dormer, addition of 2no. rooflights to existing roof, and new roof finish to existing outbuilding.

The Friends of Lewes object to this application as the design of the proposed full width box rear dormer does not comply with the agreed design guidance for dormers on existing roofs. The Society also objects to the removal of the existing hip roof and the construction of a gable as it would have an adverse visual impact on the symmetry of this semi-detached house. In addition, the Society considers that the use of GRP as a roof covering on the existing outbuilding is unacceptable at this location.

SDNP/24/00525/CND: Ousedale House, Offham Road, Offham: Removal of Condition 4 (Temporary period) related to Planning Approval SDNP/22/03797/HOUS to allow the retention of the annexe permanently.

The Friends of Lewes object to this application to remove the existing condition relating to the existing planning approval, and would strongly recommend that a new Planning Application be submitted, seeking permanent approval for the retention of this structure.

SDNP/23/04923/FULL: 1 Hill Road: Erection of 3x bedroom dwelling, Erection of detached garage for existing dwelling.

The Friends of Lewes would like to refresh its objection to this proposal submitted on the 11^th December 2023, having had another opportunity to examine the submitted information on the planning portal. The Society maintains its objection, as it considers the proposal would result in the overdevelopment of this small site and its impact on two mature trees, not within the curtilage of the application site, is likely to be unacceptable. The Society also considers the design of the proposed dwelling to be rather contrived in order to fit the limited space available.

SDNP/24/00630/HOUS: 16 Church Lane, South Malling: Installation of front porch, replacement of existing rear dormer, addition of 1no.dormer to front, and alterations to side and rear fenestration.

The Friends of Lewes object to the proposed front porch on the south elevation as the Society considers its design to be too dominant a feature at this location. The Society also notes that the proposed porch has not been included in either the east or west elevations submitted. As an alternative, the Society would like to suggest that the proposed porch be reduced in size and resubmitted.

SDNP/24/00697/HOUS: 1 Priory Row, Priory Street: Replacement of timber front composite door.

The Friends of Lewes would like to object to the proposed installation of a composite door with a UPVC door frame within the Lewes Conservation Area, and would recommend that wood should be used.

SDNP/24/00715/FUL: 5 North Street: Change of use from part class E and part class C3, to Class C3 only, including minor amendments (replacement doors and installation of rooflights and windows) in order to provide a 3 bedroom family home

The Friends of Lewes object to the proposed change of use and conversion of this property to a 3 bedroom family home. The Society would strongly recommend the commercial ground floor frontage should be retained at this important location within the local street frontages with a busy footfall. The Society considers that this corner of West Street and North Street to be a significant part of the local public realm within the Lewes Town Centre, and the potential loss of 5 North Street for only private use would be regretted.

SDNP/24/00744/HOUS: 21D South Way: Construction of side dormer. The Friends of Lewes object to the current unavailability of the ‘combined plans’ on the planning portal, and as a result the Society is unable to comment in detail. However, the Society notes that on the ‘superseded – combined plans’ drawings that the East and West elevations are incorrectly annotated.

The Committee examined the following applications and had no observations to make:

SDNP/23/04091/HOUS: 19 Hereward Way.	Erection of rear dormer with Juliet balcony, Insertion of 2x front rooflights, and erection of rear outbuilding.
SDNP/23/04927/HOUS & 04928/LIS: The Pigeon House, Potters Lane.	Retrospective application for installation of extractor fan in bathroom, repair of panel by replacement of missing lathes, coating with daub, finishing with lime plaster and painting to match existing panels, and addition of vent to exterior.
SDNP/23/05434/HOUS: 24 Church Lane, South Malling.	Erection of rear extension/conservatory, erection of side/rear extension, Erection of side/front extension, Replacement of existing rear window with bay window, New rear patio and associated landscaping.
SDNP/24/00043/HOUS: West Corner House, 30 The Avenue.	Replacement of 7no casement windows.
SDNP/23/05434/HOUS: 24 Church Lane, South Malling	Proposal for: New entrance lobby, (Front), New Conservatory (Rear), New Ensuite (Rear/Side), New Bay Window (Rear).
SDNP/SDNP/24/00237/HOUS & 00238/LIS: 59 Southover High Street	Like for like remedial works to chimney stack.
SDNP/200298/HOUS: 3 De Montfort Terrace, De Montford Road.	Erection of single storey rear side infill extension.
SDNP/24/00415/CND: Ord, Kingston Road.	Variation of Condition 2 (plans) related to Planning Approval SDNP/23/01634/HOUS to include changing garage roof from flat to pitched.
SDNP/24/00428/HOUS: 1 The Riverhouses, South Street.	Installation of external first floor door and fire escape stairs to North-West elevation, conversion of lower ground floor store into an entrance lobby for installation of pit-less lift with internal access to all floors, and extension of central lightwell on roof.
SDNP/24/00489/LIS: 144 High Street.	Internal alterations to convert first floor bathroom into staff office.
SDNP/24/00166/FUL & 00167/LIS: 77 High Street	Replacement of upper ground floor window with hardwood timber sash window, replacement of asphalt roof, blocking of redundant fire escape doorway, new fascia sign above front window and interior works including repairs and blocking up of empty stairwell and renovation of toilets.
SDNP/24/00498/HOUS: 112 High Street	Application to render to exterior wall of property to prevent water ingress.
SDNP/24/00638/FUL: 26 Malling Street.	Windows and door replacement works, painting existing windows (Amendment to application ref SDNP/23/01286/FUL).
SDNP/24/00646/HOUS: Rotten Row House, Rotten Row.	Replacement of single glazed timber framed windows and doors with double glazed timber framed windows and doors
SDNP/24/00829/HOUS: 1 The Moorings.	Enlargement of kitchen door opening to rear elevation.

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Friends of Lewes Planning Committee Report – 7 February 2024

Representations made on planning applications following the meeting of the Planning Committee held on 7 February 2024

Week 21 December 2023 to 5 February 2024

SDNP/23/05242/HOUS: 10 Glebe Close: Dormer to rear and addition of rooflights to front.

The Friends of Lewes object to the large rear box dormer, as the design does not comply with the agreed design guidance for dormers on existing roofs.

SDNP/23/05395/FUL: 11 High Street: Replacement of existing door to north-east elevation with a new timber door with glazed panels: Installation of 2no. halo illuminated lettering signs to north and east elevations; installation of 2 no. non-illuminated signs projecting signs, to north and east elevations; and internal alterations.

The Friends of Lewes object to the proposed halo illuminated lettering signs to the north and east elevations, as the Society does not support the introduction of any externally illuminated signs within the Conservation Area.

SDNP/23/05464/HOUS: 25 Cranedown: Demolition of side conservatory and erection of single storey extension, gable and roof extension, front pitched dormer with glass balustrade and fenestration alterations.

The Friends of Lewes would like object to both the full width box rear dormer, (north elevation), as well as the smaller box dormer on the front, (south elevation), as both dormers do not comply with the agreed design guidance for dormers on existing roofs. In addition, the Society would like to comment on potential overlooking issues associated with the proposed single storey extension incorporating high level windows overlooking the adjacent property, number 26 Cranedown. The Society would also like to comment that it considers that the overall quality of design proposed for this application to be disappointing.

SDNP/24/00173/HOUS: 24 Hawkenbury Way: Removal of non-functioning chimney to accommodate a loft conversion with shingle clad rear dormer, and 2 no. skylight windows on front roof slope.

The Friends of Lewes object to this application as the design the proposed full width box rear dormer does not comply with the agreed design guidance for dormers on existing roofs.

SDNP/24/00184/FUL: 41 Queens Road: Demolition of existing house and erection of 1no new build house and 2no new build flats.

The Friends of Lewes object to this application as the Society considers that the proposal building would be too high and as a result be rather dominant in this location. Of particular concern is the proposed second floor accommodation for both the proposed house and flat no.2 which would seem to be accommodated solely under sky lights. The Society would therefore like to suggest that the proposal could be improved if the second floor was to be deleted, but the ‘footprint’ of the overall building increased along the Fitzgerald Road frontage, (west elevation), in order to provide sufficient space for two semi-detached houses, with both accessed from Fitzgerald Road.

SDNP/23/04536/FUL: Flats 5, 6, 9 & 8 Broomans Court Broomans Lane: Replacement of 6no. (3pairs) single glazed timber bay windows with 6no. UVPC double glazed casement windows.

The Friends of Lewes object to the use of UVPC in the Conservation Area. The Society would also recommend that all the existing bay windows should be retained and that the proposed new individual windows should not be permitted.

SDNP/23/04649/FUL: 15-17 Spring Gardens: Enclosure of 2no existing porches.

The Friends of Lewes object to this application for two reasons. The first being that the enclosure of these two porches would have an unacceptable visual impact on the street frontage of Spring Gardens. The second reason being that the Society objects to the use of both composite materials and UVPC within the Conservation area. In this respect, the Society fully supports the recommendation of the Design and Conservation Officer.

SDNP/23/04663/HOUS: 9 Orchard Road: Existing first floor flat roof dormer replaced with a larger flat roof dormer.

The Friends of Lewes object to the proposed enlargement of the existing flat roofed rear dormer, as the design does not comply with the agreed design guidance for dormers on existing roof

The Committee examined the following applications and had no observations to make:

SDNP/23/04091/HOUS: 19 Hereward Way.	Addition of dormer to the rear, rooflights to front and erection of outbuilding to rear.
SDNP/23/04294/LIS: 101 High Street	Replacement of existing chimney cowl to Grade II listed building.
SDNP/23/05242/HOUS: 12 North Street.	To remove decayed and dangerous existing first floor sash window (single glazed) and replace with new traditional wooden sash window with slim line double glazing.
SDNP/23/05334/ADV: Unit 4 the Friars, High Street.	3no, Fascia Signs from fret-cut metal in paint finish applied on spacers and 1no. hardwood Projecting Sign 3.2 metres above ground.
SDNP/23/05434/HOUS: 24 Church Lane, South Malling	Proposal for: New entrance lobby, (Front), New Conservatory (Rear), New Ensuite (Rear/Side), New Bay Window (Rear).
SDNP/234/00008: Chandos, Rotten Row	Installation of 10 no roof mounted solar panels to various positions of house.
SDNP/24/00057/FUL: Offices 1-4, 20-21 High Street.	Conversion of first floor office accommodation (Class E) to 3no residential units (Class C3) (2no 2 Bedroom & 1no Bedroom) including external and internal alterations.
SDNP/24/00114/FUL: Former Bus Station, Eastgate Street.	Temporary site hoardings and gates on Eastgate Street frontage.
SDNP/24/00140/HOUS: 4 Castle Banks.	Replacement of existing single glazed 1970s windows in disrepair, with double glazed timber casement windows, with divided lights to complement neighbouring windows. Dormer in disrepair at rear enlarged and replaced with new timber casement windows with divided lights. Soil vent pipe at rear relocated.
SDNP/24/00165/HOUS: 20 The Gallops.	Change material and colour of the existing windows and doors from brown UVPC to black aluminium frames and widening of first floor side window.
SDNP/24/00166/FUL & 00167/LIS: 77 High Street	Replacement of upper ground floor window with hardwood timber sash window, replacement of asphalt roof, blocking of redundant fire escape doorway, new fascia sign above front window and interior works including repairs and blocking up of empty stairwell and renovation of toilets.
SDNP/24/00169/HOUS: 3 Friars Mews.	Replace first floor rear double glazed wooden french doors with UPVC wooden effect triple glazed french doors.
SDNP/24/00298/HOUS: 3 De Montfort Terrace.	Erection of single storey rear side infill extension.
SDNP/24/00326/CND: Flat 2, 48 Southover High Street.	Variation of condition 3 (details of doors, windows and rooflights) related to Planning Approval SDNP/21/01794/LIS to include changing sliding door on West elevation to pivot door, change of rooflights to not include central glazing bar and omission of glazed link which would have connected to link and extension to the main house.

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Friends of Lewes Planning Committee Report – 6th December 2023

Representations made on planning applications following the meeting of the Planning Committee held on Wednesday 6th December 2023

Week 18 October to 29 November

SDNP/23/04592/HOUS: 24 Fitzjohns Road: Installation of 6x Solar Panels on rear flat roof dormer.

The Friends of Lewes object to this application, as the Society is concerned about the installation of the solar panels into “Landscape Roof Tubs” on the existing flat roof, which would make them much more conspicuous within the wider setting. Furthermore, if fitted as proposed, this type of installation could set a precedent for other property owners to adopt.

SDNP/23/04619/HOUS: 9-10 Pelham Terrace: Front Dormer, full width rear dormer, rear infill extension.

The Friends of Lewes object to this application, as the Society considers that the combination of the proposed front dormer and full width rear dormer, both on no. 10 Pelham Terrace, would alter the overall visual character of Pelham Terrace, and as such could be considered as overdevelopment. In addition, the design of full width rear dormer does not comply with the agreed design guidance for dormers on existing roofs.

SDNP/23/04683/HOUS: 16 Hawkenbury Way: Rear dormer and addition of window to side.

The Friends of Lewes object to this application, as the design of the rear dormer does not comply with the agreed design guidance for dormers on existing roofs.

SDNP/23/04764/HOUS: 30 Montacute Road: Demolition of existing integral garage, erection of two-storey side extension, alterations to cladding, erection of decking to the rear, and alterations to fenestration to rear.

The Friends of Lewes would like to comment that it considers the proposed alterations to this detached house would incorporate a number of detailed changes that would result in an unfortunate loss of character if implemented. The Society would therefore like to suggest that a more sympathetic conversion would be more appropriate.

SDNP/23/04923/FUL: 1 Hill Road: Erection of 3no bedroom dwelling.

The Friends of Lewes note that this application seems to be no longer available on the planning portal. However, as a result of an earlier assessment of this application, the Society was intending to object on the basis of the overdevelopment of this small site and its juxtaposition to two mature trees.

SDNP/23/04940/HOUS: 22 King Henrys Road: Demolition of existing rear conservatory and rear lean to extension. Replacement glazed bay window and full width canopy to rear. Amended door and window openings to rear elevation. Associated landscaping works.

The Friends of Lewes object to this application and agrees with the comments of the Design and Conservation Officer, regarding the loss of existing windows to the rear and the adverse effect on the conservation area as an Edwardian conservation area. The Society is also concerned about the appearance of the full width canopy to the rear, which it considers to be inappropriate.

The Committee examined the following applications and had no observations to make:

SDNP/23/04110/HOUS: 18 Morris Road.	Replacement of existing door and sill to front with wooden door to be painted the same colour, and replacement of concrete slab path to front with red and black tiles.
SDNP/23/04567/LIS: HMP Lewes, 1 Brighton Road.	Fire safety improvements to prison blocks- extended scope to existing consent SDNP/21/03714/LIS.
SDNP/23/04733/ADV & 04861/LIS: 32 Friars Walk.	Installation of 2no A2 notice boards on either side of the gate to display meeting times, times for worship and community events.
SDNP/04869/HOUS: 33 Prince Charles Road.	Extension to front and rear of existing ground floor garage workshop to become accommodation.
SDNP/23/04876/HOUS: 1 Delaware Road.	Conversion of garage including extension to front, dormer to rear roofslope, rooflights to front and rear, and additions and alterations to fenestration throughout.
SDNP/23/04937/HOUS: 4 Cranmer Close.	Erection of single storey side extension, timber deck to rear, and internal alterations.

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Friends of Lewes Planning Committee Report

1st November 2023

Representations made on planning applications following the meeting of the Planning Committee held on Wednesday 1st November 2023

Week 13 September to 30 October 2023

SDNP/23/03888/HOUS: 62 Houndean Rise: Single storey rear/side extension.

The Friends of Lewes whilst supporting this application in principle, would like to suggest that should this application be considered for approval, that there should be a condition that the existing drive should be resurfaced with a fully permeable surface in order to reduce surface water run-off.

SDNP/23/03968/HOUS: St Annes Lodge Rotten Row: Two storey side extension with first floor balcony and glass balustrade and replacement of existing solar panels to dark PV panels to the front, associated internal alterations, alterations to fenestration at the rear, changes to external materials on all elevations and associated landscaping works.

The Friends of Lewes appreciate that the modifications to the existing house are likely to have little visual impact when viewed from Rotten Row. However, the Society is most concerned about the loss of trees and removal of earth along the Rotten Row frontage that is likely to have an adverse visual impact on Rotten Row. The Society would therefore recommend that the proposed widening of the driveway be reduced, in order to ensure that there is a sufficient amount of earth to enable any new vegetation to flourish.

SDNP/23/04280/HOUS: 31 Highdown Road: Resubmission of SDNP/23/02450/HOUS with small amendments – Two storey extension to side, single storey extension to rear, addition of dormers to side elevation, replacement porch to front elevation, alterations to fenestration throughout, addition of solar panels to front roof, and air source heat pump to rear.

The Friends of Lewes object to this application for the following reasons:-

(1) The provision of a dormer on the side elevation would have an adverse impact on both the front and rear elevations.

(2) The Society considers that the installation of four Velux rooflights on the rear elevation to be both unacceptable visually and contrary to the South Downs National Park’s “Dark Skies” policy.

(3) The proposed patio to the rear should incorporate a suitable permeable surfacing material and if possible, the inclusion of a ‘rain garden’ in order to reduce surface water run-off.

SDNP/23/04323/FUL: 38 Western Road: Loft conversion incorporating rear dormer and front rooflight, change to fenestration, internal alterations and associated works.

The Friends of Lewes welcome the proposed amendments to the previous scheme, (Ref: SDNP/23/03227/FUL), and in particular the cream colour of the proposed render to the front elevation. However, the Society would prefer the installation of ‘timber vertical sliding sash windows’ painted white in all of the windows, including the rear (south) and side (east) elevations, as the property is located with the Lewes Conservation Area.

SDNP/23/04329/HOUS: 50 Valence Road: Loft conversion and installation of 3no rooflights.

The Friends of Lewes object to the loss of the hipped roof on one half of a pair of semi-detached houses and the substitution of a gable end wall. The Society also objects to the proposed large box dormer to the rear of the building, which would be contrary to the agreed design advice on the provision of dormers.

SDNP/23/04058/FUL: 6 The Lynchets: Subdivision of property into two dwellings.

The Friends of Lewes object to the removal of the condition for “ancillary use only” and recommend that the building be retained as one dwelling. The Society is also concerned about the limited space available for parking in front of the dwelling, which would have to be increased should the property be divided into two dwellings.

SDNP/23/03749/LIS: 80B High Street: Removal and replacement where necessary of tiles to the front of the property, replacement of rusted tile fixings.

The Friends of Lewes fully support this proposal as it would ensure that this important façade on the south side of Lewes High Street would remain in good condition.

SDNP/23/04134/FUL: 176 High Street: Change of use of the rear section / ancillary space of the existing ground floor retail unit to create a studio apartment, separately accessed from the rear of the property.

The Friends of Lewes recognise that this proposal is to the rear of the existing property and as such will have a minimal impact on the street scene. However, the Society is concerned about the very limited size of the proposed studio apartment, the size of which will be further reduced when the necessary insulation measures have been installed.

The Committee examined the following applications and had no observations to make:

SDNP/23/03559/HOUS: 13 Dorset Road:	Installation of 2no rooflights, rebuilding of ladder staircase, and insulation of loft space. Installation of 1no rooflight to first floor hallway.
SDNP/23/03811/HOUS: 10 Verrall’s Walk:	Replacement of front door and UPVC windows to front, rear and side.
SDNP/23/04003/HOUS/HOUS: 23 Hillyfield:	Erection of 1.5 storey side extension to replace existing garden room.
SDNP/23/04125/HOUS: 2 Chandlers Wharf:	Replace first floor front window with inward-opening door and Juliet balcony.
SDNP/23/04214/FUL: Undercliffe House Malling Street:	Creation of vehicular crossover to formalise an existing access.
SDNP/23/04236/FUL: 28A Station Street:	Replacement of 2 existing front-facing windows with new double-glazed equivalents.
SDNP/23/02460/LIS & 03043/FUL: Brack Mound House, Bottom Floor Flat, Castle Precincts:	Replace existing loading bay door and window with a new casement window and G

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Friends of Lewes Planning Committee Report – 4th October 2023

Representations made on planning applications following the meeting of the Planning Committee held on Wednesday 4th October 2023

16/8/2023 to 3/10 /2023

SDNP/23/03221/HOUS: 2 Friars Mews, Pinwell Road: Replacement of all double glazed windows excluding rear ground floor, with white wood grain effect UVPC.

The Friends of Lewes actively discourage the use of UVPC within the Conservation Area, however in this particular case the Society has read with interest the comments of the Senior Conservation and Design officer, and would like to support her conclusions that this proposal should be permitted.

SDNP/23/03552/HOUS: 2 St. John’s Terrace: Demolition of shop front and installation of front bay window, open up front lightwell and installation of balustrade.

The Friends of Lewes support this application, as the existing shop front has been in a very poor state of repair for a number of years and the Society welcomes both the repair of this corner building within the conservation area, and its conversion to residential use.

SDNP/23/03612/FUL: Builders Yard Timberyard Lane: Erection of 2no residential dwellings and associated landscaping.

The Friends of Lewes object to this proposal as a result of its adverse visual impact at the southern end of Morris Road. In this context, in order to maintain the distant view of the downs, the Society considers that the gap between the two proposed buildings should be increased. Of particular concern is the large blank brick façade of the larger unit on the western side of the site, which is considered to be very dominant and stark in appearance. In contrast, the smaller unit on the eastern part of the site barely visible in context along Morris Road.

In order to improve this proposal, the Society suggests that the following amendments should be considered:-

(1) That the gap between the buildings should be increased, in order to improve the view of the downs.

(2) That a pedestrian link should be provided between Morris Road and Timberyard Lane in order to improve the ‘connectivity’ of the area for local residents.

(3) That pedestrian access to both units could be achieved from this pedestrian link.

(4) That the size of the larger unit on the western side of the site should be reduced.

(5) That the flank wall of the above unit, facing Morris Road, be redesigned to be less ‘stark’ in appearance and more sympathetic to the local context.

The Committee examined the following applications and had no observations to make:

SDNP/23/03143/HOUS: 61 Western Road:	Installation of 1no front-facing and 1no, installation of 1no rooflight in the rear roof slope, painting of existing window frames and replacement of the front door.
SDNP/23/03158/LIS: 9 Fisher Street:	S73A retrospective application for replacement of two timber windows to front and rear with timber windows, refurbishment of eight timber windows to front and rear and repainting all windows in Shade Invisible Green by Little Green.
SDNP/23/03411/HOUS: 13 Mill Road:	Demolition of conservatory and construction of single storey side extension.
SDNP/23/03608/FUL & 03609/LIS: 18 Castle Ditch Lane:	Retrospective application for removal and replacement of existing garden building, replacement of fences to South and West boundaries.
SDNP/23/03660/HOUS: 124 Western Road:	Erection of single storey infill extension to rear, replacement sash windows to front elevation and other associated alterations.
SDNP/23/03840/HOUS: 1 Firle Crescent:	Rebuilding of front porch structure, alterations to rear ground floor door and window openings, garage conversion to home office with new pitched roof and landscaping.
SDNP/23/03861/HOUS: 26 Barons Down Road:	Conversion of garage into bathroom for use by a disabled occupant.
SDNP/23/03869/LIS: HMP Lewes, 1 Brighton Road:	Amendments to CCTV and internal alterations.
SDNP/23/03930/LIS: 28A Station Street:	Replacement of 2 front existing front-facing windows with new double-glazed equivalents.
SDNP/23/03738/HOUS: 1 Anne’s Path:	Installation of 12 Solar Panels to roof.
SDNP/23/04011/LIS: 117 High Street:	Extension of rear lightwell, addition of walk-on glazing and addition of glass balustrade to rear.
SDNP/23/04053/HOUS: 122 South Street:	Replacement rear windows to French doors with Juliette balcony.