Fairhaven Coach House, Northend, Batheaston

Fairhaven Coach House is a mid- to late 19th century building, now converted to a residential dwelling, situated within the Green Belt, Cotswolds AONB, and the indicative landscape setting of the Bath World Heritage Site. It adjoins the rear of the Grade II early to mid-19th century dwelling Fairhaven. The focus of this application is an outbuilding located in the rear garden to the east of the main residential complex; this is likely attributed to the late 20th century and is therefore of limited historic or material interest.

Fairhaven Coach House is set within an attractive landscape, on the elevated west slope above St Catherine’s Brook. Whilst Fairhaven and part of its garden setting are visible from Northend, wider landscape views are largely restricted by the tree belt south of Bannerdown Common. Conversely, views from the east are more extensive, looking out towards Charmydown.

In light of the declared Climate Emergency, BPT is generally supportive of the installation of PV panels where this would not have an adverse impact on landscape character and the special qualities of views in and around the AONB and the setting of the World Heritage Site.

Considering the neutral value of the existing outbuilding, we consider that the installation of PV panels of an appropriate design could enhance its appearance. The use of flat-mounted panels would suitably integrate the panels with the existing roof surface and mitigate their visibility.

However, we strongly recommend that further design details of the proposed panels are submitted as part of this application to ensure a non-intrusive appearance and finish in accordance with Policy SCR2 of the Core Strategy and Placemaking Plan. We suggest that PV panels should be monochrome with a matt finish to minimise reflectivity and associated sun glare, and should sit as flush with the roof slope as possible.