King George’s Hall improvements at King George's Hall Northgate, Blackburn

“Proposed Development: Full Planning Permission and Listed Building Consent: Works to include internal renovations and improvements to King George's Hall, including improvements and enhancements to bar areas, internal circulation and public areas, together with provision of additional and enhanced washroom facilities. Replacement and enhancement of external air extraction system…”

“The application site is a Grade II listed building, which is located within Blackburn Town Centre and the Northgate Conservation Area. It comprises of a large ornate building with an enclosed yard area. A concert/civic hall is operated from the majority of the building with wider commercial functions also in operation. The building was constructed in two phases between 1913 and 1921. It was designed by Messrs Briggs & Wolstenholme.”

“The building has a rectangular plan on a north/south axis and is in a classical, civic style, with a heavily rusticated base. The Blakey Moor front has an upper portico with giant paired Corinthian columns. The interior, also in classical style, is arranged over three storeys with a large double height rectangular auditorium, with coffered ceilings, at first floor level.”

“10/24/0430 and 10/24/0460 – Works on King Georges Hall, consisting of the replacement of external windows and doors, stonework restoration and repointing – Approved, with conditions (committee decision) – June 2024.”

“10/24/0341 and 10/24/0343 – Works on King Georges Hall, consisting of repair and replacement of slanted and flat roof, rooflights, roof access system, and rainwater goods – Approved, with conditions (committee decision) – May 2024.”

“On balance, the proposals would be satisfactory from a technical point of view, with all issues having been addressed through the application process, or capable of being controlled or mitigated through appropriately worded planning conditions.”

“Principle of development ➢ Design and visual amenity ➢ Impacts on heritage assets ➢ Safeguarding amenity ➢ Highways and parking ➢ Ecological assessments and Biodiversity Net Gain…”

“No public responses received – no representations received.”

“Additional information has also been provided regarding the external coating colour of the external ducting/plant equipment to be installed. The external ducting/plant equipment would be coated in a beige colour (RAL 1001), which would appropriately correspond with the stone elevations of the host building.”

“Based on the submission of that information, it is recommended Conditions 5.1.3 and 5.2.3 are reworded to the following: (5.1.3) Any external ducting/plant equipment to be installed as part of the development hereby approved must be externally coated in a RAL 1001 colour.”

“Decision under Town and Country Planning Acts and Regulations –”

“RESOLVED – Approved subject to the conditions highlighted in the Director’s Report and the amended conditions in the Update Report:”