Listed roof repairs at Guildhall Arts Centre, Grantham

“This application is seeking Retrospective Listed Building Consent for the repair of the base of the bell turret as well as the projecting ridge board at the Guildhall. This is necessary due to the substantial deterioration of the timber structure, as well as general ageing and weathering of the features affected. As summarised by the applicant, the works comprised:”

“Remove the segmental timber ‘ring’ from the top of the roof and the remains of the associated decorative timber cornice. • Fully inspect the ring to determine the level of decay to all three layers with a view to salvaging and reincorporating any segments that are unaffected by decay. • Provide matching size and profile timber elements where replacement is required due to extensive decay and reconstruct the ring and cornice arrangement.”

“The application site comprises a Grade II Listed Building (NHLE 1360282) that currently is operates as Guildhall Arts Centre, and is run by South Kesteven District Council as part of the cultural services. The site is located within the Grantham town centre, which falls within the Civic Centre Character Area of the Grantham Conservation Area.”

“S24/0606: Maintenance and repair works to the clock lantern, pitched roofs, stone parapet copings and bracketed stone cornice…”

“S25/1158: Remove the bell turret from the building intact using a crane and to take it off site to a suitable joinery workshop facility to be deconstructed, assessed, repaired and then remounted on the building at a later date.”

“Substantial further decay had been discovered during the previously approved works, which fell outside of the previously approved remit. A record of the affected sections of timberwork while being dismantled has been provided, as well as documentation of the replacement timberwork. The works were considered to be necessary to preserve and enhance the building and secure the buildings architectural and aesthetic values.”

“The works are considered to preserve the heritage asset by enabling its continued use and preserving the historic fabric with the replacement of the substantially deteriorated sections. As such, the proposed works is considered to preserve the character and appearance of the listed building and accords with Section 16 of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990, Policy DE1 and EN6 of the South Kesteven Local Plan, and Section 16 of the National…”

“Grantham Town Council We have no objections to the proposal and trust the planning officer's expertise in making an appropriate decision.”

“Representations as a Result of Publicity 6.1 The application has been advertised in accordance with the Council’s Statement of Community Involvement and no letters of representation have been received.”

“It was proposed, seconded and AGREED to authorise the Assistant Director - Planning to GRANT listed building consent subject to conditions:”

“Before the part of the building being altered is first brought into use, the repair of the conical roof and ridge board shall have been completed in accordance with the approved details and material to match.”