King's Lynn, Norfolk.

 

19/00093/F | Creation of a fishing lake and an archery range with the addition of a welfare and storage cabin | Welsummer Barn 182 Fitton Road Wiggenhall St Germans King's Lynn Norfolk PE34 3AY.

​

Following an initial planning appraisal with the applicants it was decided to apply for change of use of existing paddock area to make use of it as a recreation resource.  En-Plan: Planning & Architecture then submitted a full planning application complete with Flood Risk Assessment that was subsequently approved by the local planning authority.  The applicants have also recently gained planning approval for a new swimming pool.  Both elements will add real value to the property and add to the way they enjoy their property.

​

The property is located in Wiggenhall St Germans is a village located in the English county of Norfolk. It is situated on the western bank of the River Great Ouse, approximately 4 miles south of King's Lynn. The village falls within the district of King's Lynn and West Norfolk. Wiggenhall St Germans has a rich history and is known for its historic church, St Germans Priory Church. This Grade I listed building dates back to the 12th century and features Norman and Gothic architectural elements. It is known for its impressive stained glass windows and medieval wall paintings. The village itself is mainly residential, with a mix of old cottages and more modern houses. It offers a peaceful and picturesque setting, with the river running nearby and open countryside surrounding the area. Wiggenhall St Germans is also home to the Wiggenhall St Germans Pumping Station, which is now a museum. It houses a restored steam-powered pumping station that was used to drain the fens in the past.

​

The site relates to an area of paddock land and manege to the immediate rear and south­west of the converted barn. The proposal is to use part of the manege as an archery range which would be similar in appearance with room for 4 lanes and targets added. Releasing of the arrows would be westwards away from residential areas. The proposed pond is intended for recreational fishing and wildlife. A 'welfare cabin' is also proposed containing a w.c, storand seating area. Its siting and appearance are considered to relate appropriately to the recently approved swimming pool extension (ref: 19/00517/F).

Whilst the proposed development will slightly encroach into an area classed as 'countryside', the land is arguably presently used for recreational purposes and there would be little difference involved. There would be no significant public views and therefore no significant adverse impact upon the character and appearance of this locality, which is why in this case, a development that would otherwise be contrary to policy, is acceptable.
The agent states in his email of 15 May 2019: The Council confirmed that the proposed small lake, welfare cabin and archery range are for personal use by the applicants and are in no way a commercial venture and will not be available for use by members of the public. This has always been the case and the applicants are looking to create a wildlife resource and recreational resource for themselves to enjoy alongside their property."The use of the facilities can be secured via condition to prevent use on a commercial basis. Likewise the cabin conditioned to be incidental to the dwelling and not occupied.

As the site of the pond is presently paddock land with little amenity or wildlife value, and the creation of the pond would have biodiversity benefits associated with it and accord with Policy CS 12 of the LDF.
The proposal is considered to accord with the provisions of the Development Plan and was duly recommended for approval subject to certain conditions sattached to the decision notice.

​

If you would like to find out more about how our Planning Consultancy, Architectural Design Services, and Building Regulations know how can work in perfect sync to achieve a successful outcome in the planning system please comtact us and we will be only too happy to talk through any questions or development proposals you may have.

​

READ MORE NEWS

​