Listed building repairs at 65 St Johns Road, Hemel Hempstead

What was proposed

The application sought consent to repoint a flint wall, install a French drain around the building, and remodel the staircase.

“Listed Building Consent is sought for the re-pointing of the flint wall. Installation of french drain around building exterior. Re-modelling of staircase.”

Officer report

The site

The site is a two-storey semi-detached Grade II listed dwelling on the southern side of St Johns Road.

“The application site is a two storey semi-detached dwelling located on the southern side of St Johns Road. The property is a Grade II listed building and situated in Hemel Hempstead.”

Officer report

Why officers recommended approval

Officers considered the damp repairs and staircase changes proportionate, preserving the building’s historic fabric, character, appearance and significance.

“The existing internal staircase is considered to appear out of keeping with the Listed Building given it is an open tread stair case and made of hard wood. The proposal seeks to replace this with a more traditional softwood stair case incorporating balusters, hand rail and a cupboard underneath. As per the Conservation Officers comments this is considered to enhance the internal character of the property and is therefore acceptable.”

“The proposed works to remedy damp issues within the property and the remodelling of the internal staircase are considered to cause no harm to the historic fabric, character, appearance and historic interest of this grade II listed building. The proposals would be preserving the significance of the grade II listed property.”

Officer report

Conservation advice

The conservation consultee supported the French drain, lime repointing, staircase replacement and internal damp treatment, recommending approval.

“The application proposes works to remedy damp issues within the front of the property and the replacement of the staircase.”

“The installation of a French drain is a good conservation approach to reducing the amount of damp sitting against a wall and will help to maintain the historic built fabric. Repointing the external wall in lime will help the building fabric to breathe and dry out and this is welcomed.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The case officer was absent, and Philip Stanley introduced the report to members and explained the referral.

The committee vote

Councillor Douris proposed approval, Councillor Williams seconded it, and members voted six for, none against and one abstention.

“It was proposed by Councillor Douris and seconded by Councillor Williams to GRANT the application.”

Minutes

The decision

The committee granted listed building consent with conditions covering the start date, materials and approved plans.

“That listed building consent be GRANTED. Condition(s) and Reason(s):”

“The works hereby permitted shall begin before the expiration of three years from the date of this consent. Reason: To comply with Section 18 of the Planning (Listed Building and Conservation Areas) Act 1990, as amended by Section 51 (4) of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004. The development hereby permitted shall be constructed in accordance with the materials specified on the application form.”

Minutes