1 Grosvenor Place, Lambridge, Bath

1 Grosvenor Place forms part of a monumental Grade I late 18th century terrace of townhouses situated within the Bath conservation area and World Heritage site. It originally formed the initial phase of works around the proposed Vauxhall Gardens, now Kensington Meadows, by John Everleigh, and remains evidentially significant of a speculative Georgian leisure enterprise. 1 Grosvenor Place sits on the far west of the terrace and adjoins the Grade I late 18th century Grosvenor House.

We note that it is proposed to “hack off all render to parapet walls and chimneys and replace with through colour smooth cast render in colour to suit B&NES Listed Building Department.” In the proposed materials and finishes, it seems to be indicated that a cement render would be use to replace existing cement render; we query whether a more appropriate lime-based alternative could be implemented to minimise future harm to historic fabric.

Considering the absence of elevations or sections, we strongly recommend that any bird netting proposed for fitting in the parapet gutter in accordance with the surveyor’s recommendations should sit below the parapet coping to minimise any potential visibility.

We maintain that where possible, scaffolding should be freestanding to minimise the need to drill into the stonework of a primary elevation of a listed building. Should fixings be unavoidable, these should be limited to the mortar joints to minimise irreversible damage.