| Application Type: Townscape and Visual Impact Assessment |
| Development Description: Removal of current 1930s buildings and construction of a 6 storey mixed use building to provide 8 new self contained residential flats and 1 restaurant space on ground and basement floors |
| Local Authorities/Councils: Hackney London Borough Council |
Fuller Long have recently worked with Gordon Shrigley Architects in the Hackney area to supply a Townscape and Visual Impact Assessment (TVIA) for a scheme involving the demolition of an existing 1930s building and the construction of a 6-storey, mixed use building comprising both residential accommodation and restaurant at ground floor level.
The TVIA is a good way for developers to understand the potential opportunities and constraints of a site in relation to the historic environment. This is a particularly important tool when looking at sites within the vicinity of heritage assets, such as listed buildings or conservation areas, as it is critical to understanding how various forms of development can impact upon their setting and significance.
Our heritage team, led by Josie Roscoe, compiled an in-depth TVIA to accompany the application.
Our TVIA drew on a synthesis of desktop-based analysis, field work, professional judgement and established guidance and criteria to select baseline views, assess visual impact from CGIs and verified views and advice on mitigation measures. The visual impact assessments are based on a thorough understanding of the baseline environment. We assess townscape character types, which typically explores the built development, urban grain, material palette and architectural details and patterns. This stage addresses the heritage constraints and identifies opportunities where the historic environment can be enhanced. In this case, several designated heritage assets were identified as having the potential to be impacted by the proposed development including several adjacent statutorily listed buildings, the Victoria Park registered park and garden and the Victoria Park Conservation Area.
The assessment concluded that the scheme was in accordance with relevant national and local policies. This gave our client the confidence to proceed with the scheme and submit an application for full planning permission.
If you are looking to understand how your development may impact upon the historic environment, Fuller Long can assist. To speak with one of our experienced team of planning and heritage consultants, please call us on 0808 164 1288 or email us at hello@fullerlong.com.
