Design Statement

The Membury Design Statement exhibition, held on the 29^th and 30^th June was very well supported. Of those parishioners and visitors who attended, 133 completed the accompanying questionnaire plus there was an important input from the 17 schoolchildren. We thank them all for taking the time to assist us with the appraisal.

Analysis of the questionnaires has been completed and the results are summarised below.

Exterior wall construction.

There was unanimous support for new building to be of local stone with rendering receiving a 50-50 vote. 60% of those responding did not want timber cladding or brick. These results were qualified by a number of comments which stated that a mix of stone and brick was acceptable and that brick, render and timber cladding were acceptable in small areas. Eight comments stated that obvious artificial-stone cladding was not acceptable.

Roofing material preferences

Slate, clay tile and thatch were the preferred materials with cedar shingles approved by a 3:2 vote. Concrete tiles were rejected by a 3:2 vote.

A number of comments stated that galvanized steel on old stone/farm buildings can give character.

Flat roofs should be avoided

It was generally agreed that the roofs on dormers, garages and extensions should not be flat.

Additions & Extensions

It was agreed that these should be in keeping with original construction.

Window style preferences

Multi-pane windows were the preferred option with a 3:1 vote for leaded lights. A similar percentage voted against large pane windows. A significant number of comments stated that window style should be in keeping with the property.

Window frame material preferences

Hardwood frames received the most support with painted softwood coming a close second. u-PVC frames received a 50-50 vote.

Colours should be sympathetic to and blend in with surroundings

This statement was agreed by the majority of residents.

Boundary wall preferences

Stone walls, Devon banks and traditional mixed hedging were the preferred options with stock-proof fencing and single species hedging receiving limited approval. Solid timber fencing was rejected by a 4:1 vote. Open plan was rejected by a 2:1 vote.

Visible renewable energy features

Solar panels received the most support with ‘green' building design coming second. Wind generators received a 50:50 vote. A significant number of comments stated that any solar panels or wind generators should be sited discreetly.

Should adopt policy to maintain ‘dark skies'.

Adoption of this policy was unanimously approved.

Specific views to be protected

A number of comments specified particular views that should be protected but the overwhelming impression given by the responses was that all of the views to and from the village should be protected.

Any other comments

The comments received were wide ranging. Comments receiving significant support were:-

All existing copses and woods should be protected.

Lanes and hedgerows should be protected.

No high density development

Affordable housing should be provided for young families.

Provide flats/housing for aged residents thus freeing-up homes.

Jim Gallantree, Design Statement Committee