Flats plans to make Roman Court in Leverington suitable for future residents

Plans have gone into Fenland District Council for four single-storey extensions to sheltered accommodation flats in a village.

The application relates to Roman Court a sheltered accommodation site in Leverington that was previously owned and run by Clarion for people over 55 and seeks permission to extend flats 3, 12, and 14. The site is currently unoccupied.

Clarion Housing closed the site in 2020 despite a campaign to save it that included being launched.

However, the campaign failed with the residents being relocated, and in 2022 a report to Fenland District Council said the site would be reverting to the district council in 2023 because it was not viable – the site appears to have since been sold and according to the application it is now owned by Mr Scher who is applying for the extensions.

A heritage statement drawn up in support of the application by Redwoods Planning and Extensions explains the plans comply with planning policies when it comes to the Leverington Conservation Area – which is adjacent to the flats and will “ensure the continued viability” of Roman Court.

The Conservation Area is recognised for its historical and architectural value and because Roman Court is adjacent to it “careful consideration of its impact on the heritage asset” is required.

The heritage state says the extensions will retain key site features and will use materials sympathetic to the surrounding area.

It says: “The extensions are designed to be modest in scale and positioned to minimize visibility from the Conservation Area.

The materials proposed for the extensions are in keeping with the character of the existing building and surrounding structures, thereby ensuring a harmonious relationship with the setting.

“The rooflines and massing of the extensions are proportionate and do not dominate the existing structures or the adjacent heritage context.

“The extensions will result in a minimal change to the setting of the Conservation Area. Given the design’s sensitivity to the surrounding context, any harm caused to the significance of the heritage asset is negligible and at the lower end of the spectrum. The proposals maintain the spatial and visual relationship between Roman Court and the Conservation Area.”

It adds: “The proposal enhances the functionality of Roman Court, ensuring compatibility with the character of the area. The high-quality design approach ensures the development complements the character of the area, thereby better revealing and preserving its significance.

The statement concludes: “The extensions improve the usability and accommodation standards of Roman Court, meeting the needs of current and future residents. The extensions have been designed with respect to the heritage context, using materials, scale, and detailing that integrate seamlessly with the existing building and the adjacent Conservation Area.

“The proposal ensures the continued viability and modern functionality of Roman Court, which provides essential services to the local community.”