The Eastbourne Borough Council Conservation Advisory Group meeting on 11 June 2024 focused on energy efficiency in protected settings and considered two significant planning applications. The group expressed concerns about both applications, urging applicants to revise their proposals to better respect the conservation areas.

Energy Efficiency and Retrofit in Protected Settings

Alex Moojen, Conservation Officer, provided a briefing on encouraging energy efficiency and managing retrofit considerations for listed buildings and conservation areas. The discussion covered the placement of solar panels, evolving standpoints by bodies such as Historic England, options for window frames and glazing, and the importance of educating the public on their rights under permitted development and single occupancy. The group appreciated the ongoing public drop-in advice sessions at The Beacon shopping centre and the status of a window audit across conservation areas. The presentation's PowerPoint file will be shared with group members.

Planning Applications for Consideration

Manor Garden Cottage, 25 Compton Place Road, Eastbourne BN20 8AB – Ref: 230811

The proposal involved the demolition and alterations, including a two-storey extension, roof terrace, and basement excavation. The group unanimously expressed serious concerns about the lack of detail for an application of this scale. They were particularly worried about the proposed three-storey intervention, feeling it did not preserve the character and appearance of the conservation area or respect the adjacent listed building. The applicant was invited to work with officers to generate a more sensitive and appropriate proposal.

10 Pevensey Road, Eastbourne, BN21 3HP – Ref: 240025

The proposal included a full-height extension to the side of 21 Susans Road, excavation to form a courtyard and stairway, and reinstatement of lightwells. The group felt the previously approved scheme was superior and expressed concerns about the loss of railings, deep light wells, and changes to the roof and window design. They believed the amended scheme only just preserved, rather than enhanced, the character and appearance of the conservation area. The group requested that officers liaise with the applicant to share their concerns and encourage reconsideration.

New Listings

There were no new listings to report.

For more details, you can refer to the Minutes of Previous Meeting and the CAG - Planning Applications Report - 11 June 2024 - final.