Andrew Martin – Planning Ltd recently secured two planning consents on behalf of Orbit Group for additional bed spaces at their care facility on Cullum Road in Bury St Edmunds. The permissions relate to internal alterations and rationalisation of underutilised space within the existing building to create six additional extra care units, alongside a two-storey extension providing a further ten units.
Together, the consents will deliver 16 new extra care units, all of which will be available for affordable rent, helping to address an identified need for extra care housing for older people in the district.
The proposed two-storey extension presented a number of planning challenges. The final design and layout were carefully developed to respond to existing TPO trees on site, the extent of the flood zone, and the site’s location within a Conservation Area. The building has also been stepped down towards the south of the site to ensure an appropriate scale and massing.
The development will deliver wider benefits by helping to address local housing need, freeing up under-occupied dwellings, and increasing the supply of larger family homes through the efficient use of previously underutilised space.
Client: Orbit Group
AM-P Lead: Kate Sutton
Architect: Robothams Architects