Chapel Flats, Shilton Road, Barwell
I was appointed in August 2003 to investigate the creation of additional flats in the unused roof voids whilst the client was in the process of purchasing individual flats which had been developed in the 1970’s. Many of the flats were boarded up and were being vandalised and a fire burnt out most of the roof structure in around 2006. Access to the original first floor flats was by external timber staircases. The building had been poorly maintained and was in need of refurbishment to meet modern living standards.
Two planning applications were submitted and refused in 2005 and 2006 because of problems with the number of parking spaces and the position of the existing vehicle access. However, following further consultation with the LPA and Leicestershire Highways and undertaking revisions to the previous scheme, planning permission was granted in August 2007 for the refurbishment and alterations to the fire damaged building, including the creation of five additional flats.
Full plans building regulations approval was granted in December 2008 and work commenced on the fire damaged building, prior to the stripping out of the original partitions and fire damaged structure.
The existing concrete tiles have been replaced with natural blue/black slates and new French doors with Juliet balconies have been added where possible. The window openings have reverted to the original Gothic style and the second floor flats are lit by roof lights, which are set at high level to avoid overlooking the adjacent terraced houses, to minimise changes to the existing roof.
The project is now nearing completion and the works include the creation of 21 new flats including 7 one bedroom and 14 two bedroom flats which are accessed via two new entrances, with associated car parking.
