12 June 2007
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Client/Developer: |
Linklever Ltd |
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Lead Designer: |
Oliver & Robb Architects |
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Local Authority: |
Fife Council |
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Location: |
Dunfermline |
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Planning Ref.: |
07/00153/WLBC |
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Details: |
Proposals for a mixed-use, urban village development incorporating residential, retail, restaurant, crèche, museum and office uses at Pilmuir Works site, Dunfermline |
| PDF Version | Pilmuir Works Urban Village June 07 (38.7 kB) |
Dunfermline - Pilmuir Works - Urban Village Development - 07/00153/WLBC
Thank you for your letter dated 31st January 2007 enclosing details of the current application. The designs were discussed at a Design Review meeting on 22nd May 2007.
We welcome the introduction of a mixed-use residential scheme within the town centre and we support the proposed re-use of the existing buildings on the site. We welcome a contemporary approach to the new build elements of the scheme and support the insertion of modern elements within the retained façade of the existing block. Our main concerns relate to the design of the new building, Block D, and the lack of permeability from the street.
The design of the new building, Block D, appears chaotic in relation to the restrained character of the existing buildings and the new insertions. We suggest that a more controlled approach to the form and elevational treatment of this block would be more appropriate. The design of the internal courtyard requires further consideration and we would suggest that to increase permeability a direct access from Pilmuir Street be provided. We feel that the entrance to the flats is somewhat tortuous and we would suggest that the existing entrances on Pilmuir Street might be used to access these flats directly from the street as well as from the courtyard space.
A+DS aims to raise the quality of new development so that high standards of design are the rule, not the exception. Design Review offers independent expert advice on the quality of design for selected projects, and Ministers attach great importance to the Design Review process. The development industry, as well as decision makers on planning applications and appeals, must demonstrate what account has been taken of the views of A+DS in coming to a view on how to proceed.