Magnet, Woodbridge Road, Guildford, GU1 1DP

1. 1.The proposed use of Rodeca polycarbonate panels as a substitute for the 'translucent glass planks' shown on the approved drawings would be unacceptable within the context of the approved architectural design. The façade composition relies on the interplay between the textural glass and the sinusoidal perforated metal cladding in a matte gold finish, with the glass providing a refined luminous counterpoint to the metallic surface. Polycarbonate responds differently to illumination, producing flatter, more diffuse light qualities, increased surface reflectivity and a noticeably more synthetic appearance. This undermines the intended visual hierarchy and weakens the architectural expression of the scheme. In addition, polycarbonate systems have different long-term maintenance characteristics, including susceptibility to surface scratching, UV-related discolouration and weathering patterns that do not align with the expected performance or visual longevity of the specified glass system. On this basis, it is considered that the proposed use of polycarbonate panels would result in the quality of the originally approved development being materially diminished, contrary to Policy DP4 of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) 2026.
2. 2.The scheme identifying the signage zones for each unit is inadequate for the following reasons: i) No signage zones have been identified for the ground floor units. ii) There is no strategy proposed for wayfinding and directional signage and how these would be accommodated within the façade where practicable. iii) The number and distribution of the proposed indicative signage zones on the upper floors would result in visual clutter, to the detriment of the building's design and appearance. Whilst it has not been possible to approve the discharge of the condition at this time, it should be noted that the following materials are considered to be acceptable in principle and would not require further amendment as part of any subsequent submission: · Rainscreen Cladding (EWS-011): Gold sinusoidal aluminium cladding (Interpon D2525 Golden Beach), vertical orientation. · Rainscreen Cladding (EWS-012): Light gold perforated sinusoidal aluminium cladding (Interpon D2525 Golden Beach), diagonal orientation. · Rainscreen Cladding (EWS-013): Silver sinusoidal aluminium cladding (RAL 9006 Silver), vertical orientation. · Rainscreen Cladding (EWS-015): Dark grey sinusoidal aluminium cladding (RAL 7012 Basalt Grey), vertical orientation. · Brise Soleil Shading: Lang + Fulton steel elephant grating panels within a structural steel frame, RAL 9006 Silver. · Curtain Walling (EWS-021): Schuco curtain walling system with glazed doors, louvres and insulated aluminium cassette panels. Millmead House, Millmead, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 4BB · Flashing/Fascia/Coping: Class A2 powder-coated aluminium trims, flashing and coping, RAL 7012 Basalt Grey. · Louvre Panels: Alu-Plus SLS34 glazed louvre panels within the curtain walling system. · Flood Prevention Upstand Wall (EWS-031): Pre-cast concrete retaining wall with natural concrete polished finish. · External Columns: Painted steel universal columns (254 x 254 x 89 UC). · Metal Fins: Class A2 powder-coated aluminium vertical fins with gold finish (Interpon D2525 Golden Beach). · Cassette Panels (EWS-016): Dark grey aluminium cassette panels (RAL 7012 Basalt Grey). · Automatic Opening Vent (EWS-017): Silver aluminium smoke vent and surrounding cassette panels (RAL 9006 Silver). · Automatic Opening Vent (EWS-018): Gold aluminium smoke vent and surrounding cassette panels (Interpon D2525 Golden Beach). · Roller Shutter (EDR-008): Foam-filled insulated roller shutter door, Merlin Grey 18B25. Please read the Important Notes attached.

From the council's decision notice.

Postcode

GU1 1DP

Parish

Stoke

Date validated

27 May 2026

Case officer

Victoria Bates

Documents

60