March 2023

Monthly Update

The end of March also sees the end of the first quarter of what has so far been a busy year for Inkpen Downie.

The beginning of the month saw the start of work for Inkpen Downie on a retrospective planning application, seeking to achieve consent for undertaken works to a 16th Century House in Braintree, Essex. The works incorporate in-depth building recording as well as a detailed historical report on the building, followed by mediation between our client and the planning department. This sensitive work is always challenging but one that the team here is always keen to welcome.

Alongside the above work have been planning applications submitted for repairs and alterations to listed buildings in the North Essex area.

Our portfolio of church work has also expanded into London with sketch proposals for alterations and extension for a church in South East London. Works to St Peter’s Church in Colchester have also begun, which will see new catering provisions added, thereby extending the usefulness of the church and offering new income streams. Repairs to the roof of All Saints, Purleigh have also started as well as RIBA Stage 4 proposals for conservation repairs submitted to PCC for St Laurence & All Saints Eastwood, Southend.

Progress has also been made on the proposed extension to Plantation Hall, Heybridge with tenders being submitted by 4 local contractors. The works are scheduled to begin in late April. The Creative Digital Hub which will occupy the old bus depot site in Colchester is also nearing the tender stage whilst an extensive archaeological dig takes place. More can be learned about the findings here on the Colchester City Council website.

Sketch proposals are also being developed for the conversions of 3 barns in central Essex. Again, expanding Inkpen Downie’s established portfolio of Barn Conversions in the area.