Demolition of supermarket, erection of block of six flats, 19, Northgate, Almondbury

Planning application 2020/92024
Demolition of supermarket, erection of block of six flats, 19, Northgate, Almondbury

While there is no doubt that the existing supermarket building is a negative element within the townscape of this important and historic conservation area, the proposal to replace it with a block of six flats can only be classed as mediocre.

It is accepted that the site layout constrains redevelopment proposals but equally the scheme pays little attention to the architectural and historic form of the Northgate area. In order to provide adequate parking for the number of flats proposed, the whole frontage is to be laid out as a hard-standing area. This appears contrary to the values that should be achieved within conservation areas in general.

There is, in addition, meagre detailing with regards stonework and related materials and it is considered that any development should be in coursed York stone to all elevations, not simply on the front elevation.
In summary, although it could be argued that the proposal is better than what currently exists, the result is disappointing and could be rectified by reducing the number of units with layout and elevational amendments that include reduced parking requirements.