EDO8182 - Gussage House, Gussage All Saints; heritage assessment 2013

OASIS: This is a document describing and discussing all aspects of the historic environment (Conservation areas, Listed Buildings, Ancient Monuments and archaeological sites) in relation to the development proposal. Project Results: The proposal is for the insertion of a lift to give access to the upper floors of the house to people with walking difficulties. Of relevance are the following statements in the document Paragraph 180 New openings need to be considered in the context of the architectural and historic significance of that part of the asset. In particular consideration must be given to English Heritage Advice on Access to Historic Buildings as stated in the 2012 Document “Easy Access to Historic Buildings” in particular pages 40-43 which states that: The best way to provide accessible circulation between different floors of a building is to install an integrated and suitably sized passenger lift. As well as helping wheelchair users it can also be of benefit to ambulant disabled people, older people and people with pushchairs. A passenger lift is more likely to be feasible in larger buildings. Where space is at a premium, or a lower-cost solution is required, a short-rise platform lift may be a more viable solution. Passenger and platform lifts are best located in the less-sensitive parts of historic buildings, for example secondary staircases and light wells or in areasthat have already been disturbed or altered. Pits and openings for lift shafts should be carefully located to avoid loss or damage to significant timbers, archaeological remains or decorative surfaces. It thus suggested that installing a lift is entirely consistent with English Heritage policy. 11.1 The Access Options In this case the other options such as a stair lift can be ruled out because there is only one staircase which is an early key feature. 11.2 Accessing the least damaging location for the lift Clearly a number of locations can be ruled out because of the impact they would have on the historic plan form. These include: 1. The principal phase 1 rooms 2. The principal phase 2 room – the kitchen. The proposals seek to use as far as possible rooms which are altered in any event.