Long running battle to replace a cottage within a very sensitive historic location resolved at appeal. The proposals are to replace a cottage within the Mudeford Quay Conservation Area which is locally listed and part of a group of listed buildings. Initially the council sought to argue that the building was over 300 years old and should be protected. This was disproven, the building was mostly of 1950’s vintage and was failing. Structural surveys showed the building was not fit for purpose. The council however took issue with the design of the replacement. A subsequent appeal determined that the major part of the proposals was acceptable. A resubmission which mirrored the elements of the proposals the Inspector found acceptable was supported by officers but overturned by members influenced by the weight of misplaced public representation. This decision was easily overturned at appeal. Despite the long running process the main point in that demolition is sanctioned and the replacement building is efficiently designed providing significantly more accommodation on this prime location overlooking Christchurch Harbour.
MUDEFORD QUAY, CHRISTCHURCH
