In a series of letters to the Farnham Herald, residents have expressed concerns that the restoration work being undertaken at Brightwell House does not conform to the plans approved in the Listed Building Consent. They have called for action to be taken to ensure that the restoration work is undertaken in accordance with regulations.
Brightwell House is a Grade II listed building, which sits within the Brightwells Yard development, and is owned by Waverley Borough Council. Over the last few weeks, Waverley conservation and enforcement officers have been on site working with Crest Nicholson, the developer responsible for the restoration. Officers have also engaged with local stakeholders including the Farnham Society and Farnham Buildings Preservation Trust and Georgian Group, to try and resolve the issues. As a result, a number of actions have been agreed between the council and Crest Nicholson.
The roof structure will be altered so that the sofit overhang on the west bay can be reduced and brought back in line with the original planning permission. The chimneys will be dismantled and rebuilt to accord with the relevant Listed Building Consent. Cornices and roses in the internal roof appear to be in good condition and will be retained.
The original windows were removed, as they had been damaged. They will be replaced with new windows that will match the retained shutters, and they will be double glazed, helping improve the energy efficiency of the building. Unfortunately, the French doors had to be removed due to wet rot but will be replaced with timber French doors matching the originals. It is also hoped that the existing fireplaces can be restored and retained.
Strategic Director – Place, Guildford and Waverley Borough Councils, Dawn Hudd, said:
“We believe that residents have a right to share their views on our developments. It shows they care and that they feel passionate about the area they live in. We welcome the feedback and the ideas.
“Going forward, we will be working with Crest Nicholson so that matters relating to the roof and the interior are resolved, and this historic building is bought back to life in a sensitive way, giving it the dignity it deserves. We believe that Coppa Club is an excellent tenant for the building and can’t wait to see it brought up to a standard of use that is sympathetic and appropriate to the historic character of the building.
“Our vision is for a thriving community space which combines the old and new and we look forward to the day when it comes to life”.
A spokesperson from Crest Nicholson said:
"Crest Nicholson is proud to have been trusted with restoring Brightwell House in a sensitive and timely manner. After working with Waverley Borough Council's Heritage Team, the additional works to ensure the roof is restored correctly are currently underway. We are excited for Coppa Club to begin their tenancy of the listed building and for the entirety of Brightwells Yard to open for local people to enjoy."