Porch access alterations at Nicholson Institute, Leek

“The proposal would involve installing an additional entrance door to the existing porch to the side of the Nicholson Institute and installing of an internal timber partition within the lobby area of the porch. The work is required in order to create two separate entrances for the college and the arts centre respectively for safeguarding reasons…”

“The Nicholson Institute is a Grade II* Listed building situated within Leek Conservation Area and in the setting of other Listed Buildings. It was constructed 1882-4 as a school of art, museum, art gallery and public library. The building was given to the town by Joshua Nicholson and designed by local architectural firm W.Sugden & Son. The building is constructed in red brick and designed in mid-17th century revival style.”

“The Nicholson Institute, although set back from the main road, is a landmark building with the town centre and makes a positive contribution to the area’s character and appearance.”

“SMD/2025/0225 Listed building consent for various refurbishment works, including internal refurbishment throughout and limited external repairs.”

“SMD/2024/0103 Application for Listed Building Consent for a programme of maintenance required for the lower ground floor of the Nicholson Institute building…”

“The proposal involves alterations to the porch on the side elevation of the Nicholson Institute. The work involves the installation of an additional entrance door and the installation of an internal partition within the lobby area. As noted in the Design & Access Statement, the existing canopy and columns are historic features. However, the infill glazing and dwarf wall appear to be modern 20th century alterations.”

“The proposed works would also involve the installation of a modern timber partition within the existing entrance porch, to create two separate lobby areas for the college and the arts centre. The Conservation Officer advises that this would cause a very minor degree of harm to the building’s special interest as it would intersect and block some visual appreciation of the building’s architectural design.”

“At a meeting of Leek Town Council Planning Committee on 23rd September 2025. The Council resolved to give the following observation comments: The Council agreed that this application is a practical solution and does not damage the heritage of the Nicholson Institute, The council agreed the entrance was dull.”

“No comment, recommend seek advice on internal Conservation Officer…”

“Members commented on the importance of preserving the historic building and installing secure safe guarding measures.”

“RESOLVED: That the application be granted for the reasons and based on the policies contained within the report;”

“That in the event of any changes being needed to the wording of the Committee’s decision (such as to delete, vary or add conditions / informatives / planning obligations or reasons for approval / refusal) prior to the decision being issued, the Head of Development Services be delegated authority to do so in consultation with the Chair of the Committee, provided thar the changes do not exceed the substantive nature of the Committee’s decision.”

“That Listed Buildong consent be granted subject to the following conditions:-”

“4.Prior to the commencement of the works hereby approved, specific details of the junction of the new partition wall with the existing brickwork in the form of technical drawings of no less than 1:20 scale shall be submitted to and agreed inwriting by the Local Planning Authority. The works shall thereafter be carried out only accordance with the agreed details.”