4 C O N T E X T 1 3 4 : M A Y 2 0 1 4 Local Development Plan 2010. ‘8. Improved levels of insulation are clearly an important component in the drive towards more resourceefficient buildings. However, the authority’s guide to sustainable design (adopted June 2011) provides advice on a range of other measures that can improve resource efficiency in ways that would not be at the expense of local distinctiveness. I therefore do not consider that the harm and conflict with planning policy that I have identified would be justified or outweighed by the benefits of the additional insulation. ‘9. Neighbours’ concerns about the effect of the insulation on the breathability of the traditional stone walls are supported to an extent by Welsh Office Circular 61/96, the appendix to Annex D of which advises that non-porous coatings can form a barrier which prevents moisture being trapped within walls from evaporating, leading to problems arising from damp. However, the performance and suitability of the particular system installed in this instance is a matter principally for the installer. It is therefore not a consideration that has influenced my decision. ‘10. I have taken into account all other matters that have been raised, including that the materials used carry a guarantee and that the exterior of the building should not need redecorating for many years. However I find no material considerations that would indicate that the appeal should be 16 The Terrace, Rosebush, on the Pembrokeshire Coast.The appeal related to the refusal of retrospective planning permission for the installation of external wall insulation. building as intact as possible.Work is about to start, following approval by the National Planning Casework Unit, on the very contentious major refurbishment of Grade I-listed New Court, Trinity College. A very significant planning appeal (APP/L9503/A/13/2190536) has shown how strong policies can afford protection to unlisted buildings in areas such as national parks and conservation areas. The appeal related to the refusal of retrospective planning permission for the installation of external wall insulation (in partnership with British Gas and the Welsh Assembly Nest scheme) at 16 The Terrace, Rosebush, Clunderwen, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. The appeal was dismissed. The inspector identified the main issue as being ‘the effect of the proposed development on the character and appearance of Rosebush Terrace’. The inspector noted: ‘4. Rosebush Terrace is a row of former quarry workers’ cottages, built in the late 19th century…The authority’s concerns relate only to external wall insulation applied to the access frontage of the appeal property. This is a layer of insulation board fixed over the original stone walling. It is… up to about 120mm thick. ‘5. Rosebush Terrace has been altered over time. Some houses retain their original stonework finish. Others are now rendered. External walls have been painted in a variety of colours, and there is also much variety in window type and roof finish. However, many traditional features have been retained and to a substantial degree the terrace remains in its original condition. The quality of the terrace’s architecture is good, and it is in a prominent position and has a significant influence on the landscape. It is closely associated with historic slate quarrying in the area. Because of its history, vernacular architecture and construction I consider that it should be regarded as a building which makes an important contribution to the character and interest of the local area. ‘6. Photographs show that prior to the insulation being installed the appeal property had an exposed stonework wall finish and traditional window cills. These features would have contributed significantly to the building’s traditional vernacular character. In contrast, because of its thickness, it is now apparent that a non-traditional external wall treatment has been applied. As the traditional cills have either been removed or covered by the thickness of the insulation the vernacular appearance of the window openings has been lost.While the cream colour does not look out of place, the selfcoloured render is smooth and modern in appearance. ‘7. I consider for these reasons that the installation of the insulation has significantly adversely affected the distinctive appearance and architectural integrity of the terrace. Its retention would therefore conflict with Policies 14, 15(e) and 20(d) of the adopted Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
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