Statutory Approvals
Berkeley obtained planning clearance for the West End Gate site, which made use of an underutilised and eventually abandoned parking lot. The project began in 2014 under a separate firm and was transferred to Berkeley in 2015, along with the acquisition of the Paddington Green police station. All necessary work was done during the initial approval because there were no persistent planning requirements.
Berkeley Town Council oversaw the project, and its contribution was taken into account by the planning authority (typically Stroud District Council). While the Town Council's concerns were heard, the final decision was made by the planning authority to ensure obedience with local legislation. This simple process was made possible by thorough preparation and execution, which resulted in the successful approval of West End Gate.
Further information about the document can be found using this link: Planning-Considerations-Help-Sheet-14.06.22.pdf
Inclusive Design and Access for All
The inclusive design of having elevators on each floor is commendable, yet it raises concerns in emergency situations, especially for people with mobility challenges. In the event of a fire, relying solely on elevators may pose a significant obstacle to the safe evacuation of individuals with disabilities. Given the considerable height of the buildings at approximately 15 floors each, this becomes a critical issue.
To address this concern, I recommend a multi-faceted approach. Firstly, raising awareness among the concierge about residents who may require assistance during emergencies is crucial. Additionally, implementing a solution such as building ramps adjacent to emergency stairs specifically designed for wheelchairs would enhance accessibility and automate the evacuation process. This proactive measure aims to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents, including those with mobility limitations, during unforeseen events like fires.
Party Walls
Block G was still without party walls when we last visited in December, with preparations for their construction in January. Unfortunately, we were unable to witness the construction of these walls. Block H, on the other hand, has already been built and features obvious walls between each apartment within the design and area. Building party walls in Block G is a crucial phase that is frequently accompanied by the construction of utility cupboards within the apartments. This strategic approach makes it easier to provide critical services such as electricity and fire safety systems. Following that, the construction moves on to inner walls, which shape the functional spaces within the building.
14-17 Paddington Green
Grade 2 Listed house within the site
01
History
No. 14 is recognized for its brick-faced elevations and architectural details that align with the 19th-century context of the eastern side of Paddington Green, possessing some historic and architectural value. On the other hand, No. 17 Paddington Green is part of a Grade 2 listed pair constructed around 1800, featuring yellow stock brick and a central bay design. However, alterations, including a potentially rebuilt side wing and an unattractive ramp structure, have impacted its original composition. In comparison, Nos. 14 and 15-16 Paddington Green date from the later 19th century.
03
Questions about the new design
The plan is to completely strip it down for a significant refurbishment, ultimately converting it into a 4-bedroom house.
Several questions that are in talk are: what is the best way to market it? Will it be 1 apartment or 2 apartments? Or is it going to be one house? How it will look? What features is it going to have? How is it going to sit in the market? What kind of interior is it going to be?
02
Requirements
All new work and improvements inside and outside the building must match existing original adjacent work in terms of the choice of materials, method of construction and finished appearance. This applies unless differences are shown on the approved drawings or are required in conditions to this permission. (C27AA) The reason being to protect the special architectural or historic interest of this listed building. This is as set out in S25 and S28 of Westminster's City Plan (November 2016) and DES 1 of our Unitary Development Plan that we adopted in January 2007, and our Supplementary Planning Guidance: Repairs and Alterations to Listed Buildings. (R27BC).
04
Document
Policies S25 and S28 of the City Plan recognise the importance of Westminster’s historic townscape and the need to conserve it, and require exemplary standards of sustainable and inclusive urban design and architecture.
The document concerning the 14-17 paddington green can be found using this link: ITEM 01 - DEVELOPMENT SITE AT 14 TO 17 PADDINGTON GREEN LONDON.pdf
Proposed Design
14-17 Paddington green
images taken from: ITEM 01 - DEVELOPMENT SITE AT 14 TO 17 PADDINGTON GREEN LONDON.pdf
CDM
Heightening, falling materials, and extreme noise levels are all possible hazards on the building site. There are safety precautions, warnings, and emergency exits in place, which are clear on-site and in recordings. These dangers are properly communicated to workers by the CDM team. Berkeley emphasises safety through schedules and materials with non-personalised QR codes.
As per the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007, all involved parties must manage health and safety. Designers must avoid or minimize hazards, not just during the project but also in the building's future use. Compliance is crucial, with legal consequences for non-compliance, especially in severe incidents. A health and safety file is essential for documenting risks in future building use and maintenance. Visit www.hse.gov.uk/risk/index.htm for more information.
Document that helped my understanding of CDM and health and safety: l153.pdf
Ear defenders
Fire Notice
QR Codes
Elevator Disclaimer
Fire Safety
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Emergency Stairs
Emergency Exits
Fire Equipment
The final building is equipped with advanced fire engineering principles to minimize smoke and fire risk. The finished structure incorporates sophisticated fire engineering techniques to reduce smoke and fire risk. Hall and Kay fire engineers managed sprinkler system installation while following to industry standards such as BS 9251:2014, BSEN 12845, and BS 9990:2015. Over 5,600 sprinkler heads were installed over the development over a three-year period, covering six blocks up to 27 stories tall. Because of the phased activation, certain blocks may be occupied while others were still under development. Fire points were strategically placed on each floor, and windows were designed to be fire-resistant and large enough to allow for quick escape. The building's architecture prioritised safety, with numerous fire escapes and well-designed stairwells.
Extract from Fire Safety Document B Section 7, B3
To protect the safety of residents, the means of evacuation in the event of a fire are guided by several essential principles:
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Capacity Considerations: The design accounts for the maximum number of occupants in various areas, ensuring escape routes can handle the capacity without congestion.
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Accessible Exits: Exit routes are designed to be easily accessible, considering factors like staircases, lift shafts, and other features for all occupants.
Lift Shaft
Of the event of a fire, the residents of a major project like West End Gate with eight separate blocks must be trained and coordinated. Residents must be familiar with evacuation protocols and escape routes, as well as engage in frequent drills. Building heights vary, adding complexity and emphasising the significance of clear communication and mutual responsibility. With the St Mary's hospital close, round 10 min walk, timely evacuations become even more important, requiring a well-prepared community for effective disaster response.
FORCE WARM ROOF MULTI LAYER
The FORCE® warm roof system at West End Gate meets or exceeds fire safety standards as specified in Building Regulations Approved Document B. It includes aluminum-cored AVCL, Hytherm® MW insulation, Securock® cement board, and a BBA-accredited underlayer and capsheet. It is BRoof(t4) certified under BS EN 13501-5:2005 as unrestricted. Non-combustible terrace coatings from Axter improve fire safety. Regulations demand that apartments have smoke alarms, heat detectors, and sprinkler systems.
