Bell turret restoration at Guildhall Arts Centre, Grantham

“S25/1158 Proposal: 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.”

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

“As the full condition of the fabric cannot be ascertained until the structure has been dismantled, conditions regarding the proposed material and methodologies cannot be provided pre-commencement of works. An estimated schedule of works has been provided, which evidences the aim of the works to retain as much of the historic fabric as possible.”

“The works are considered to preserve the heritage asset by enabling its continued use and preserving the historic fabric with the splice replacement of the substantially deteriorated sections.”

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

“Whether the bell turret had a bell inside that could be heard.”

“The Conservation Officer confirmed a bell was inside, however, it was silent and had no clapper or rope inside the bell.”

“It was proposed, seconded and AGREED to authorise the Assistant Director for Planning & Growth to APPROVE listed building consent subject to conditions:”

“Before any of the works to the refurbishment of the turret and building hereby permitted are begun, samples of the materials (including type of timber and lead, colour of any paintwork) to be used in the construction shall have been submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority.”