Multi-disciplinary design practice, rg+p has secured planning permission from Dacorum Borough Council for a new housing scheme in the Hertfordshire village of Apsley, to the south-west of Hemel Hempstead.
Stationers Place, as the scheme is known, involves the creation of 29 new affordable homes neighbouring the Grand Union Canal (artist’s impression above) along with public open space, parking and associated amenity space. Approved by Dacorum Borough Council, Stationers Place comprises a mix of one- and two-bedroom apartments and has been designed to revitalise a vacant site adjacent to a listed cottage, papermill and Apsley Lock.
Grant Giblett, Associate Director at rg+p, commented: “Stationers Place will regenerate a tightly constrained, urban site in a popular area of the village. Our design comprises four new buildings that have taken a cue from the surrounding wharf style architecture however their aesthetic incorporates contemporary features to blend seamlessly with the more traditional detailing and fenestration. For instance, large windows provide the dual aspect flats with plenty of natural light.
“The scheme presented several challenges for our architecture and planning teams, namely the existing topography, utilities, access and a canal culvert, so we’re extremely pleased with the successful outcome of this planning application.”
Stationers Place marks the third scheme rg+p has partnered Dacorum Borough Council on; following a mixed-use residential and retail scheme at London Road, also in Apsley and their current scheme of 79 affordable flats at Wood House, Hemel Hempstead.
All the new homes will be for social rent and managed by Dacorum Borough Council.
