Listed building and planning applications granted consent!

Success! Listed building and planning consent granted!

Case Study: heritage support for conversion of two listed buildings from offices to ten residential flats

LPA: Ipswich Borough Council

Overview: Weiser Heritage Consultancy is pleased to have received notice that Listed Building Consent and Planning Permission has been granted on an application which we were appointed to provide heritage related planning support.

WHC Role: WHC was brought in by the planning consultant. The proposal was the conversion of a pair of 17^th century listed buildings and former residences converted into offices back into residential but subdivided into ten flats. Our involvement included a full site visit, collaboration with both the architect and the client, and detailed review of the proposed drawings and providing a Heritage Impact Assessment to accompany the application. Our years of conservation and architectural/design experience proved invaluable.

Heritage Assessment: The wider site includes the following heritage assets: both listed buildings subject of the proposal, adjacent listed buildings, conservation area and HER monument and Area of Archaeological Importance. Much of the original historic fabric and features that remain were incorporated into the new proposal, which included fireplaces and surrounds, decorative plaster ceilings, mouldings and chair rails, original flooring, etc. The building suffered from a fire in the upper floors in 1991 which unfortunately resulted in the loss of original fabric. Therefore, some of the proposed alterations only impacted modern fabric.

Planning Policy & Public Benefit: The heritage impact assessment was prepared with careful reference to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and relevant local planning policies. The public benefits included the provision of much needed residential accommodation in a sustainable location and improvements and enhancements to the gardens which will encourage the biodiversity of the site.

Outcome: amendments were required to the original application which were supported by officers and both applications were granted consent.

Conclusion: even without submitting a pre-app to gauge the council’s stance on the proposal the application was approved as amended.

Need Help with your Listed Building or Planning Application? Whether you’re an architect, homeowner, or developer, Weiser Heritage Consultancy provides expert and bespoke support for heritage related developments. Contact me for heritage planning advice, listed building consent application guidance, or conservation consultancy.