You may well have heard of these two rules before. Together, they play an important role in our local planning landscape. Due to legislation that is now in its final stages of passing through Parliament, it seems likely that the 4-year rule will soon be abolished. This is therefore an opportune time to review these two rules and the implications of the imminent changes.
Last year, CAD Architects in Truro took the bold step of setting up its own in-house Planning Consultancy service. This move has proved so successful that CAD Planning has now taken on a further highly experienced planning specialist. We are delighted to welcome Martin Woodley to our team.
Today I have read an article in the West Briton reporting on Cornwall Council’s new Supported Housing Strategy which seeks to set out the Council’ approach to providing sufficient supported accommodation to 2050. The strategy very helpfully identifies the number of dwellings in each category from accessible/adapted units through sheltered and extra care to homes for those experiencing domestic violence. The total number of homes required is 48,645. To put the above number in context the total number of dwellings planned for in the current local plan to 2030 (adopted in 2016) was 52,000 and change. A new Local Plan is now beginning to be prepared and I wonder how the numbers will look.
In an earlier CAD Architects’ blog article we looked at how changes to planning laws are making it easier to convert commercial buildings for residential use.
In the world of commercial architecture, the integration of technology is a transformative force that is reshaping the way we design and experience spaces. This synergy between technology and architecture not only enhances the functionality and efficiency of commercial spaces but also creates a more sustainable and interactive environment for users. Smart solutions in commercial architecture encompass a wide array of technologies that are interconnected to create intelligent and responsive spaces. These leverage the Internet of Things (IoT), data analytics, and automation to enhance various aspects of commercial buildings. These can include energy efficiency, user experience, security, and maintenance.
In house planning consultancy within an architects’ firm is still a relatively new concept and CAD Architects are one of only a few RIBA Chartered practices in Cornwall and Devon to offer this service.
In the highly competitive world of leisure and hospitality, providing really memorable experiences for customers is the key to success. From charming hotels to vibrant retail centres and distinctive visitor attractions, architectural design plays a pivotal role in shaping the ambience and impact of these venues.
It now just over a year since CAD Architects launched our in-house Planning Consultancy. The new service has been a great success, and we have now helped numerous clients to progress their projects.
Bungalows are often sited on generous plots of land and often have open plan living spaces making them highly flexible. This means that bungalows are ideal for extension. As a result, bungalows in attractive locations such as Cornwall and Devon have become much sought-after over recent years, partly fuelled by the trend towards multi-generational living.
Wellness architecture is an approach which recognises the impact that the built environment can have on our overall health and well-being. It grows out of a belief that the spaces we live in can either help or hinder our physical and mental health. So wellness architecture aims to create cleverly designed buildings that promote wellness and thereby help to improve our overall quality of life.
