Month: February 2017

Former Thatched Cottage, Silver Hill

Design work is continuing on the plans for a new house at Silver Hill, Shenley.

In order to replace the burnt-out shell of the Grade II, Former Thatched Cottage, negotiation has been undertaken with the Local Authority and Historic England. The exceptional circumstances behind the case have been demonstrated and an ‘in principle’ agreement has been acknowledged with the Case Officers subject to agreement on the detailed design. Impact on the green belt and the adherence to planning policy are being addressed within the current phase of work.

Detailed surveys will be carried out on the what remains of the existing fabric to record its condition.

Design principles have been established and we are carrying out 3d massing studies as well as physical modelling to fully explore the impact on surrounding areas. The design of the replacement house has been the subject of much discussion with the client and his family

We are pushing towards a submission of the formal planning application in the very near future.

St Silas, Cheltenham YMCA

Work is well underway on the conversion of the former St Silas Church Centre to create 21no new units of accommodation for the young people of Cheltenham. Forge Design Studio have worked with the Contractor, Somerset Carpenters Ltd to develop the final design proposals. Experience has shown that the building fabric will need to be capable of withstanding some robust treatment. Operating within the constraints of the existing building we have created the most cost effective, long-lasting detailing possible within the budget.

Externally, the building is being given a new ‘overcoat’ with cladding to the upper section and render to the base, new windows and doors through-out will complete the work.

The building will provide move-on accommodation for the residents of the main at Vittoria Walk, Cheltenham who have progressed with the support and help of the YMCA. Funding for the project is being provided by the Borough Council, Homes and Community Agency and the YMCA.

The Contractor is making good progress and is on programme to complete in summer 2017.