Restoration of stone steps at 1 Pembridge Square, Kensington, London W2

What was proposed

The application sought listed building consent to restore the external stone steps serving the flats above the library.

“/LB/26/00527:2 A previous application sought to remove the temporary boarding over the steps to assess the condition of the steps; and to then reinstate the boarding over to facilitate continued access for residents. This application follows on by seeking listed building consent to carry out the repair works.”

Officer report

The site

The building is Grade II listed, lies in the Pembridge Conservation Area and is now used as a library with flats above.

“It is a grade II listed building in the Pembridge Conservation Area. 3.2The significance of the property includes its architectural design, plan form, architectural hierarchy, and remaining surviving historic fabric and features; as well as its contribution to the group around Pembridge Square and Pembridge Gardens. 4.The proposal and any relevant planning history 4.1The proposal relates to the repair of the historic steps up to the front door of the building.”

Officer report

The main issue

The steps were seriously dilapidated and dangerous, while removing the boarding and repairing them would improve the building’s condition and reveal a historic feature.

“Consent is sought for repairs to the entrance steps that serve the flats of 1 Pembridge Square, about Notting Hill Gate Library. The investigative works have revealed that the existing steps are seriously dilapidated and in dangerous condition. The temporary boarding that has covered the steps for many years has exacerbated their deterioration by trapping moisture, as well as preventing routine maintenance and repair.”

“The precise methodology that would be used for the repairs is unclear, as no method statement has been submitted. This would need to be secured by condition. It would also be necessary for samples of the materials to be used for the works to be inspected on site and agreed before works begin. This too can be controlled by condition.”

Officer report

Who spoke

There were no speakers for the case.

The committee vote

The committee unanimously agreed to grant listed building consent with the report’s conditions.

“Resolved unanimously: that listed building consent be granted with the conditions listed in Section 8 of the report.”

Minutes

The decision

Listed building consent was granted for the restoration of the external stone steps, subject to conditions.

“Description of Development: Restoration of external stone steps.”

Minutes