Futures Forum: Knowle relocation project: SAVE Britain's Heritage >>> "The loss of the Knowle and the additional development of the park’s upper lawns and car park as proposed represent a devastating blow to the history and character of Sidmouth."
With the deadline for submissions to the planning application for Knowle looming this Wednesday
16/0872/MFUL | The construction of an assisted living community for older people comprising extra care units, staff accommodation and communal facilities, including a kitchen, restaurant/bar/cafe, a well-being suite comprising gym, treatment rooms and pool, a communal lounge and storage facilities; car parking for residents, visitors and staff of the assisted living community; comprehensive landscaping comprising communal and private spaces; and associated groundworks. | Council Offices Knowle Sidmouth EX10 8HL
... SAVE has been appearing again on the front pages:
Loss of Knowle a ‘devastating blow’ for Sidmouth say national conservation group
SAVE Britain’s Heritage have submitted its objection to PegasusLife’s plan for 115 apartments at the Knowle site in Sidmouth saying the loss of the building and surrounding area is a ‘devastating blow to the history and character of Sidmouth.’
The national organisation, which has been described as the most influential conservation groups to have been established in the last 100 years, has written to the Planning Department of East Devon District Council objecting to plan to demolish the 19th century council offices and building a new housing complex on the site.
The letter from SAVE read: “Despite declining to list The Knowle in 2012, historic England acknowledged that both the house and the park are of ‘clear local interest’ and are ‘evidently highly valued by the local community.’ The report also noted that the building ‘retains some attractive internal features’. In our view, the loss of the Knowle and the additional development of the park’s upper lawns and car park as proposed represent a devastating blow to the history and character of Sidmouth, a remarkably well-preserved Regency town in a beautiful setting on the Jurassic coast. The long-term benefits of retaining this building should be properly considered as it wold serve to secure an important local landmark.”
The planning application which was submitted last month by PegasusLife was heavily criticised by several local opponents for excessive dwellings (115) and the visual impact it will have on the area.
However, Pegasus defended the plans saying: “We have undertaken a rigorous exploration of the complex planning and design issues associate with this important and sensitive site. This has included a wide array of technical work, extensive discussions with EDDC and Devon County Council officers and a varied programme of engagement with the local community, statutory consultees and other stakeholders. The proposals put forward from the process seek to strike an appropriate balance between the various issues raised and bring forward a high quality, appropriate and deliverable design response.”
Retirement building specialists PegasusLife agreed to purchase the 1.9 hectare of council-owned land at the Knowle and PegasusLife say their objective is to deliver a flagship assisted living community for the care and support of older people.
SAVE finished their statement stating: “We urge East Devon District Council to reject this application and require a revised design for the site that preserves the historic buildings and better protects the character of the park which is such an important amenity for the community and wider public.
Loss of Knowle a 'devastating blow' for Sidmouth say national conservation group
See also:
Throwing away our heritage? London-based SAVE vehemently objects to plans for Knowle | Save Our Sidmouth
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