Extra Care Housing, Weale Road

Description

The scheme includes a varied range of external amenity space. Private balconies are provided to many of the units, comprising set-back loggias, and the three buildings sit amongst a series of gardens of varying characters. The ground floor of the building closest to Rothamsted Park includes a cafe which is open to the general public, encouraging inter-generational interaction and providing a much-needed community resource. The gardens are divided into several "character areas" with varying degrees of public accessibility. A private courtyard garden lies at the heart of the three buildings, facing southwards across the park. A woodland garden to the rear provides secluded private space for residents, taking advantage of the mature trees that line the site along the western boundary. A footpath link provides a carefully landscaped walkway between the town centre, Rothamsted Park and the community cafe.

Planning History

Planning application was submitted 14 October 2014 and refused at planning sub-committee on 16 December 2014. A planning appeal was subsequently lodged with the Planning Inspectorate, with the appeal allowed on 19 January 2016.