Thursday, May 10, 2007
DDE meeting
Today was our visit to the free architect at the DDE (planning office) in Dinan.
Useful meeting. Very helpful.
We took before and 'mocked up' after photos along with some before and after plans.
The DDE suggested I submit a Certificate D'Urbanisme to determine if outline planning permission would be given to split the house into two separate logements. The CDU doesn't necessarily guarantee that the Permis de Construire (planning permission) will be granted but it's more likely and probably will happen a little more quickly. The CDU just lets you know if you can do what you want. For example if the CDU refuse making it into two properties then there no point in having two separate septic tanks. The downside is that the CDU takes about 2 months and the PDC also takes about two months!
Asked lots of general questions about the layout and look of the building. Generally as long as you keep the Breton style and proportions of the existing things, like doors and windows, then it is OK. I.e. retain the smaller slate sizes on the roof. Retain the brickwork where possible and do not have over large windows etc.
I can remove the horrible red brick 'castlelations' around the windows and change to plain stone or granite. At the moment they are all different patterns and colours and look inconsistent.
Window panes are preferred with the height of each pane taller than the width. Generally 6 panes in each window opening.
Because the total surface area is greater than 170 m2 I have to have an architect to draw the plans and submit them. Bit of a nuisance due to the extra cost and delay, but not unexpected.
I can't raise the height of the dormers (lucarnes). They generally are 3/4 below the roof line and 1/4 above. This is a bit of a shame because the higher they are the more light is let in.
If I get a permis de construire then I must start the work within 2 years. During the course of the work I can stop constructions for up up to a year. So she suggested I finish one then start the other within 12 months and then the 2 years continues.
Overall it was a very productive meeting and something I would recommend. Starting a dialogue with the planning office here saves time and prevents possible delays.
| 7:23:21 PM
DDE meeting
