The proposal was for listed building consent to replace all the existing windows at the property with white painted wood double glazed windows. The windows would not be like-for-like repair or replacement and the changes would alter the fabric and appearance of the existing Grade II listed building. The report advised that the listing for the property described the windows as nineteenth century and modern whilst the building itself was a Sixteenth Century timber-framed house.

Officers considered that clear and convincing justification, as required under the National Planning Policy Framework, for the alteration of all of the windows had not been demonstrated.  It was felt that only four of the windows had sufficient justification to be replaced due to their condition.

The Committee was addressed by the following speakers:

Against the Application:     -

For the Application:            Mr. Monger

Parish Representative:       -

Local Member:                    Cllr. Miss. Stack

In response to a question the Conservation Officer confirmed she had attended the site and poked the timbers to check their integrity.

Members noted the comments of the applicant that the majority of the windows would not fully close and a number of the windows looked acceptable because they had been temporarily maintained by woodfiller, putty and paint.

They were also concerned by the suggestion from the applicant that he would be unable to afford to replace all of the windows if he only had permission to replace them piecemeal. Members added that if carried out over an extended time then the replacement windows may be of varying styles.

It was suggested that if the windows were not adequately replaced then this could cause harm to the timber-framed building.

Officers reminded Members that there was a presumption in favour of conservation and that features from different ages, such as nineteenth century windows, can contribute to as part of the listing. Guidance suggested that, in such cases, the windows should be replaced only as and when necessary. The applicant had not provided evidence that all, or the majority, of the windows needed replacing.

It was MOVED by the Cllr. Davison and was duly seconded:

“That the item be deferred for the applicant to provide an independent survey on the condition of the windows in the property.”

The motion was put to the vote and there voted –

7 votes in favour of the motion

5 votes against the motion

Resolved:        That the item be deferred for the applicant to provide an independent survey on the condition of the windows in the property.