Link magazine, Spring 2008 [PDF, 4,450k] - South Norfolk Council

News in brief:South Norfolk Council’s Head of PlanningServices, John Tomlinson, retired on29 February after 34 years’ work as aplanning officer at South Norfolk Council.He began his planning career in 1971 atNorfolk County Council, but joined what isnow South Norfolk Council in 1974, sincewhen around 73,000 planning applicationshave been dealt with. In his career, he hada key role and influence in a great manyresidential, commercial and householderdevelopments, including Norfolk andNorwich University Hospital and theNorfolk Constabulary HQ at Wymondham.Making a Planning Application?We’re protecting your IDWith the introduction of the NationalStandard Application Form (1 APP),making all other planning application formsobsolete in England, there will be no needfor your signature to appear, just signelectronically by typing in your name.The 1 APP will be the only way to submita planning application and South NorfolkCouncil adopted this form from 17 March2008. Any of our previous applicationforms, if received after this date, will bereturned. To submit a planning applicationon-line visit www.planningportal.gov.uk . This is also our preferred methodof submission – it helps us to save youmoney. For more information, please visitwww.south-norfolk.gov.uk/planningFast Facts:Planning applications determined in2007: 2,543 (1% increase from 2,519 in2006)Average processing time for a standardapplication (household, change of use,etc): 54 days – well within the 8 weekstargetLeft: New Building Category, Certificate ofCommendation winner, CostesseyRight: Existing Building Category winner,Saffron Barns, Long StrattonMore awards for design builds...Also in the New Building Category, the councilpanel members were impressed with the quality ofdesign of a new home in Costessey and awardedit a Certificate of Commendation. The homewas designed by Jon Venning, Architect of LongStratton, for Mr Gary Tame and built by D J WBryant & Son of Newton Flotman.In the Existing Building Category, the awardwent to Saffron Housing Trust for their stunningconversion and extension of Saffron Barns,designed by Jacinta Webb, Senior Architect withthe Trust. The design emphasised openness,light, connection, welcome and well-being.It was previously ad-hoc buildings on differentlevels. Now all areas open off a central spineand in turn many external doors open to thecourtyards at various levels and aspects, turningan inward complex of dark stores into a light andairy range of offices. The council judging panelwas particularly impressed at the use of untreatedlarch for external boarding, masts and walkwaystructure; freeform natural canvas fabric roof,timber frame structure from forests independentlycertified as being responsibly managed to thehighest environmental standards, recycled paperinsulation; solvent free paints and stains and asedum planted green roof.When asked how the design had affected theirfeelings about the work environment, staff ofSaffron Housing commented “It’s turned aninteresting but very impractical building intosomething that’s so light and welcoming. Wereally enjoy the natural appearance of the variousrooms and feel proud to be working in such anattractive, modern layout.” “It does seem topromote a positive outlook for all of us!”7Planning and Conservation