Fuller Long were recently involved in a project on a grade II listed building in the Sevenoaks High Street Conservation Area. We worked with Sonnex Surveying on the proposed scheme, which was to form six self-contained residential units converted from what was a former office.
The original building was constructed in the 18th century with some later 19th century additions and is a typical example of Kentish vernacular architecture. Several features in the listed building which contributed to its significance included an inglenook fireplace, exposed timber frame, a cellar, clay tile hanging and brick nogging. Internally, the building had undergone several refurbishments and changes in use over the preceding years. New linings, joinery and finishes were installed throughout and a substantial extension was built to the rear of the building in the 1980s.
A site visit and thorough archival research enabled us to establish the building’s morphology and significance, which informed the design and impact assessment. This was essential in providing advice to the design team on how the proposed layout of the rooms could be reconfigured with minimal impact on the significance of the listed building and the historic fabric.
A sensitive design proposal was developed and we demonstrated in our Heritage Statement that there would be no harmful impact upon the integrity or spatial quality of the listed building. The Conservation Officer’s response noted that our Heritage Statement addressed all the concerns she raised at the pre-application stage and that she had no objection to the scheme.
Fuller Long’s Heritage Consultant, Josie Roscoe, produced the Heritage Statement, conducting research into the site’s background and development and providing justifications for the alterations that would enable the change of use. The Heritage Statement demonstrated that the works were entirely consistent with national policy and the Sevenoaks Local Plan and planning permission and listed building consent were subsequently granted.
If you are an owner of a Listed Building and are thinking about making any changes to your property, we are able to assist. Our Heritage team has assisted with supporting Heritage Statements, planning permission and listed building consent for a number of heritage assets across the country and can do the same for you.
To speak with one of our experienced team of Heritage consultants, please call us on 0808 164 1288 for a no obligation consultation or email us at hello@fullerlong.com
