The Hobbs Parker Blogs

Hobbs Parker Property Consultants, working with Clague Architects, Canterbury, have obtained planning permission for the expansion of CATS College, Canterbury.

CATS College (Cambridge Arts & Technology) is a successful and long established international sixth form college, offering International Baccalaureate, A-Levels and university foundation courses.
The new teaching and accommodation block has been designed within a restricted site yet will provide 46 residential rooms for students along with 3000ft² of teaching space.  The design cleverly creates a central focal point or ‘heart’ for the college, combining freestanding modern buildings within a sensitive conservation area.  Traditional, local building materials are to be used, but in fresh ways, and so will both highlight and celebrate the contrast between old and new.
A number of sustainable aspects have been incorporated into the scheme, including solar gain and solar shading where required, natural ventilation via the stack effect and solar panels sited on a sedum roof.
The proposals were the subject of a consultation exhibition providing a platform for the public to express views and concerns.  David Jarman, Director, Hobbs Parker Property Consultants, commented “The application proposals have evolved through ongoing negotiations with the local planning authority, and we are very pleased that – through the consultancy period - the proposals have had a very positive response, leading to the planning committee decision to grant approval, in accordance with the officer’s recommendation”.
Phase one of the building work is due to start at the end of this year.  Students will be able to move into their new accommodation in September 2011.  Phase two is due for completion by the end of 2013.

Posted by David Jarman