Planning Case Study 150

The heritage statement submitted by the applicant was basic and the archaeological advisor to the LPA recommended that a detailed building appraisal (combined with an archaeological assessment) be submitted as well.

The detailed pre-determination appraisal submitted in support of the application was helpful but found that the level of modern cladding obscured any surviving early features. The report went on to recommend further work on the former mission hall prior to demolition.

The archaeological advice to the LPA was that, if the buildings were not to be retained, detailed recording of both the mission hall and the domestic/workshop premises at the rear of the site should be required. In addition, investigation of below-ground evidence was recommended, following any demolition. A pre-commencement condition was then attached to the consent for demolition and new build.

A WSI for building recording was drafted by the developer’s consultant. However, before this had been formally accepted by the LPA, monitoring of the soft strip of the buildings revealed that historic fabric and features, including a stone fireplace, did survive. In addition, the domestic/workshop buildings at the rear of the site were probably earlier than had originally been supposed and warranted more detailed recording than had previously been envisaged. This more detailed recording was agreed via an updated WSI submitted to and formally accepted by the LPA.

The detailed recording work was undertaken and the stone fireplace was removed and proposed for re-use, potentially within the scheme.

The archaeological advisor to the LPA is currently awaiting a report on the recording and completion of other elements of the agreed scheme of archaeological investigation. Whether the additional work required put strain on the budget for the development is unknown.