Special educational needs school at Northdown House Northdown Park, Margate

“LOCATION: Application for Listed Building Consent for internal redecoration, installation of fire doors, classroom reconfiguration, removal of a non-original second-floor door and infill to match existing, installation of 1.1m toughened glass balustrade to the existing staircase, replacement of Perspex glazing with toughened clear glass to all windows, erection of 2.4m high security fence with gates, resurfacing of existing gravel parking areas and associated repairs and…”

“The application site comprises the Grade ll listed Northdown House. The site is located within Northdown Park, which is a protected open space designated in the Thanet Local Plan, and within Northdown Conservation Area. The building is located at the southern end of the park, and is accessed via an internal access road that runs to the south of the building, linking to Queen Elizabeth Avenue to the west and Northdown Park Road to the east.”

“Northdown House has been subject to various historic changes and loss of fabric during its lifespan, particularly during the 1980s and 1990s, and has been vacant for some time. The building has been in various uses over the years, including a function venue, pilates studio and small Special Educational Needs school.”

“Northdown House has been in need of repairs and attention for some time, and has been underutilised for a number of years. As noted above, the development does lead to less than substantial harm to the Grade ll listed building. Paragraph 215 of the NPPF requires that less than substantial harm to significance should be weighed against the public (including heritage) benefits of a proposal.”

“The application includes heritage benefits in the form of preservation and the reuse/refurbishment of the Grade II listed building, which can be applicable to the weighing exercise. In terms of public benefits, the scheme will provide a much needed educational facility within the district.”

“The need for increased designated parking is understood, and provided the space designated for the minibus is moved either to the side of the building or the rear, and no- longer risks blocking the historic front elevation, I have no objection.”

“In summary, subject to securing the relevant safeguarding conditions and moving the minibus parking space away from the front elevation, I raise no objection.”

“3 All making good works, following the completion of the approved works, shall be carried out using matching materials, finishes and detailing, including colour finish(es), unless otherwise agreed in writing by the Local Planning Authority.”