WHC is pleased to share that listed building consent was granted on our project in Ipswich!

Windows play a significant part of a buildings value and aesthetic

Being brought onto a project when unauthorised works have taken place can be a difficult starting point for any consultant. However, WHC has a strong record of receiving consent when works have been done without the appropriate consent. This can take the form of removing and replacing what has been done with more appropriate and contextual materials and methods as well as seeking permission to retain what has been done due to the lack of harm from the offence.

On this particular project WHC was brought in after the contractor failed to gain listed building consent twice to regularise the unauthorised replacement of the original mid-19th century timber windows and one door with composite and UPVC double glazed units. They sought consent to retain the windows and door under the guise that the older units were beyond repair, which were both refused permission.

The grade II listed building forms part of a terraced trio- listed for group value. They sit within a conservation area and adjacent to numerous other listed buildings as well as the AARCH Area Of Archaeological Importance. WHC took over the project, met with all parties and started to put together a new listed building application for the replacement of the unauthorised windows and door with new timber slimline double glazing- removing what had been done without permission.

Given the previous two failed attempts, the conservation officer met with the owner and contractor. She outlined specifically what she required to address the unauthorised works. She also agreed not to serve any enforcement notices whilst a new application was being produced. The supportive nature of the conservation officer was a welcome change and enabled the project and application to run smoothly. Interestingly, the conservation officer did not seem overly concerned about the loss of the original mid-19th century fabric from the building.

The loss of any original historic fabric is unfortunate and once it has been removed and disposed of not much more can be done. Therefore, the intent of the new application was to focus on addressing the offence and moving forward. Just before the eight-week deadline, the decision notice was sent stating that consent had been granted.

There are a lot of discussions about windows. They make a significant contribution to the character and appearance of every building. The details, proportions, materials can all contribute to the importance of the historic building (which does not have to be listed) and street scene- especially if the building sits in a row of terraced houses.

In many instances, original or older windows and doors are fully capable of being retained and repaired - sometimes in situ. However, many people think that if they are replacing their windows 'like-for-like' consent is not required or that they will be automatically granted consent. The concept of 'like-for-like' is misleading.

What it actually means is if minor repairs are needed, then using the same methods and materials as what exists is acceptable and, in many cases, does not require consent. In addition, just because one has single-glazed windows, it doesn't mean they don't have options for improving their thermal performance. Some of the options include draught stripping older windows and doors, using heavy curtains during the colder months, secondary glazing (which has improved significantly in the last decade in terms of aesthetic and design), etc.

However, before you begin any project relating to original or historic doors or windows, please stop and seek advice from either a heritage consultant, historic building professional or specialist contractor who has substantial experience or your local conservation officer for more information. Consent may be required and they may be able to offer options for working with your existing units. In addition, Historic England and The SPAB offer information and advice on their websites regarding windows and doors.