Townhouse, Devizes
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 rear garden of a Grade II* listed townhouse in Devizes.
The scheme needed detailed research and reasoning to ensure the new freestanding timber outbuilding preserved the setting of the 18th Century highly graded townhouse. The property was also designated with the Devizes Conservation Area. An assessment of the setting of the townhouse and an understanding of the history and development of the area was undertaken. The setting was particularly sensitive as the property had a formally laid out and planted back garden that contributed to the asset’s significance. There were other heritage assets in the vicinity which needed to be taken into account.
Mark worked with the owner to ensure that the new outbuilding was designed to respect the character and appearance of the conservation area and the precincts of the properties setting. The design, location, 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 property. The Heritage Statement demonstrated how it complied with heritage and design policies within the Wiltshire Core Strategy.
New buildings within conservation areas and 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.
