21/02051/BFL56

Thames Wharf 3 Roger Dudman Way Oxford Oxfordshire OX1 1AG

9 September 2021

Application for prior approval to create a two storey roof extension to provide 6no. flats (Use Class C3)

The proposed two storey extension to the southern most of the Thames Wharf accommodation blocks is both crude and naive. The extant blocks are three storeys plus a set back attic storey, making a relatively pleasing composition , but the proposed extension creates a bizarre ill proportioned edifice that looks alarmingly like one building sitting on top of another! Not withstanding the poor design, the additional height is totally inappropriate in this particular location and if approved could set a precedent for the height of adjoining properties, including the infamous Castle Mill Flats which have already caused a national controversy. Furthermore it is evident that by exceeding 11 metres in height the building would become subject to more stringent fire precautionary measures that would involve substantial works to the existing accommodation.  This proposal is so gross and ungainly that prior approval must surely be withheld on grounds of ‘design and external appearance’.