Royal Oak Apartments - Gets the green light!

The proposed works are located within the Poulton–le-Fylde within a designated conservation area with frontage onto Breck Road and Station Road. The proposals are for a new build apartment development consisting of 16 self-contained 1 and 2-bedroom apartments including several duplexes.

The team at Carters have provided an early development feasibility appraisal on this site well over two years ago on behalf of the new owner to establish the development's potential and agree on a sale for the site which took over 12 months to complete. After long negotiations and making sure the sales pack and site were satisfactory the site was purchased by Amex Estates back in August 2019.

After completing detailed development appraisals of the site we were appointed to provide a feasibility design to see how we could improve the existing planning application which was approved on the basis that the former Public house was replicated with a box-like extension to the rear consisting of only 12 apartments.

After detailed pre-planning consultations with the local authority and historical consultants reviewing the various different types of styles and concepts for the site. A preliminary design was agreed in principle and progressed with a detailed design and submission of a full planning application, which was submitted in December 2019. Due to the complexities of the site, characteristics and challenges the development proposed with COVID disruptions it has taken nearly 6 months to obtain planning approval.

The proposal

The development is inspired by Victorian architecture with a modern twist. The development includes a three story structure with pitched slate roofs, facing brickwork elevations with protruding bay windows clad with aluminium. Large glazed futures have been used to enhance the visual impact of front and side elevations and maximise the natural light into all the apartments.

The apartments have been influenced by city centre and town living such as Manchester and Liverpool with high end finishes to be provided throughout. Apartments in this location will provide a striking and current new piece of architecture for the area. The Royal Oak was an important part of its history and time of construction when the old railway used to be location off Station Road. The new development will provide key role within its new era of construction and continue to provide Poulton Conservation area with high quality design.

Internally the apartments will be tastefully furnished, with attention to details, modern colours, designer lighting and high-quality accessories, perfect for those looking for functional and high standard accommodation. The stylish apartments meet national living room size standards and can comfortably accommodate up to 4x residents. The apartments are proposed to have hi-tech, including a state-of-the-art lighting system and high-speed WIFI internet. The design is characterised by a fluid chromatic sequence through rigorous use of materials, such as bare brick walls, concrete finished walls and dark kitchens in contrast with the light elements. Each room is complemented with floor to ceiling windows. These apartments will provide a modern and authentic lifestyle.

Sustainability

The concept of sustainable development is widely understood as meeting the current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs demonstrating social, economic, and environmental benefits. The proposed development will minimise resources use, enhancing energy efficiency and reducing waste. The proposal has been designed with an elevated level of sustainability in mind and will feature many renewable features including:

• Highly insulated
• Thermal bridge free design
• Airtight construction
• Heat recovery ventilation
• Energy-efficient boilers and appliances throughout with smart meters.
• Highly insulating windows
• Innovative building services
• Sustainable drainage system

All accompanied by enhanced thermal efficiency of the building’s external fabric using the latest construction techniques. The sustainability energy efficiency factors proposed will play a key role in the UK’s efforts to hit net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

We have already taken steps to adhere to the latest Building Regulation requirements and installing the above which will reduce the carbon footprint of the development.

With the above in mind, we have taken steps to respond to the challenge of climate change through appropriate design and by making the best use of resources and assets. A mechanical engineer has already been appointed for the detailed design and incorporating water and energy efficiency measures for the M&E aspects. The contractor selected to carry out the works will also incorporate water and energy efficiency measures during construction. The reuses and recycling during the development in both in the selection of materials and management of residual waste will also be managed during the construction phase.

All materials and trades will be locally sourced reducing the carbon footprint of the development.

The site is also near the amenities of Poulton le Fylde. There are 2 primary and high schools within walking distance and safe crossing areas. Bus stops are available within a 2-minute walk. In addition, school bus services to local high schools such as St Aidan’s, Millfield and Hodgson pass the application site daily.

We have also provided a cycle store area to promote healthy and alternative means of transport for the residents. We have also proposed planting of small trees, significantly improved the outdoor amenity areas which further increases the sustainability credentials, increasing wildlife, biodiversity and offsetting carbon emissions.