Plans have been approved for a new apartment development next to Aintree Racecourse with views overlooking the world-renowned parade ring.
Wirral-based SDA Architecture has secured full planning permission for the 24 apartment development which will replace the existing two-storey building currently operating as Aintree Tandoori. The five-storey building will comprise of a mix of one and two bedroom apartments above a residents' car park.
The planning process presented several challenges to which the development has now successfully addressed. It was important for the Racecourse's cultural and heritage significance to not be overshadowed by the new development, with the building to be cladded in colours inspired by jockey silks from the 40 entries of the 2020 Grand National.
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SDA had to ensure the proposal "responded positively to the character, form, and local distinctiveness of the site's immediate surroundings without undermining the operation of the racecourse".
Running centrally through the site is the right of way known as the 'Sefton Arms Entrance' - the second busiest entrance during race days. The new building has been designed specifically to respond to the prominence of the site, providing a new focal point and framing the street scene for visitors and passers-by - while internally the upper floors have been aligned with the parade ring.
Designed during the heights of the Covid-19 pandemic, the architects were keen to create a series of all-weather amenity spaces for the residents' enjoyment including external walled and internal courtyard gardens.
Barrie Rea, director at SDA Architecture, said: “It’s been a privilege for our team to bring forward these plans for a new development adjacent to perhaps the most famous racecourse in the world. Throughout this process, we’ve been committed to ensuring that this development not only respects but enhances the local surroundings.
"Our designs reflect the rich history of Aintree and the Grand National and are also sympathetic to what is required of new apartment developments in the wake of COVID-19. We’re thrilled that our planning application was approved by Sefton Council, and look forward to the next steps as this hugely exciting project moves closer to reality.”
