Heritage Statement, Cottage, Crawley
Supporting new structures in the curtilage of a listed building requires careful consideration and justification. Mark was asked to provide a Heritage Statement to support a proposal for an outbuilding in the front garden of a Grade II listed timber-framed cottage in Crawley.
The scheme needed detailed research and reasoning to ensure the new freestanding outbuilding preserved the setting of a 17th Century listed cottage. An assessment of the setting of the cottage and an understanding of the history and development of the area was undertaken. The setting was particularly sensitive as the cottage had a rural farmland location which contributed to the asset’s significance. There were other heritage assets in the vicinity which needed to be taken into consideration.
Mark worked with the architect to ensure that the new outbuilding was designed to respect the character and the precincts of the cottage setting. The design, scale and materials were carefully considered and selected.
A statement of significance and a justification for the proposals was provided taking into account national policy. Mark was able to show how the development would not harm the setting of the listed cottage. The Heritage Statement demonstrated how it complied with heritage and design policies within the Mid Sussex District Plan.
New buildings within the curtilage of a listed building does not exclude all possibility of construction but requires careful consideration and justification to preserve the heritage assets.
Mark was able to provide a Heritage Statement adhering to national and local guidance.
The report formed part of a listed building consent application for extension and internal alterations to a rear closet wing. A 
