Woods The Stationers Ltd, 12 Old Bond Street, City Centre

Proposal
Change of use of first floor rear room from ancillary retail space (use class A1) to private office(use class B1), installation of new electricity and water mains, replacement of rotten…
Our Response

We are grateful for the benefit of a site visit which confirmed the existence of a very fine 18th century plasterwork ceiling and cornice which for many years has been concealed by a modern suspending ceiling.

We understand that it is the client’s intention to the leave the plasterwork exposed. The appropriate care and conservation of the ceiling should be a condition of the application which should also seek to agree appropriate new lighting and services that would minimise harm to the special architectural, artistic and historic interest of the ceiling.

While we regret the loss of Woods the stationers we are supportive of the ground floor staying in retail use and most importantly being accessible to the public. This is a wonderful opportunity for the special interest of the building to be appreciated by anyone who enters. We would suggest that the owners consider an interpreting the history of the building and the ceiling for visitors.

Application Number: 19/03315/FUL
Application Date: 23/07/2019
Closing Date: 30/08/2019
Address: Woods The Stationers Ltd, 12 Old Bond Street, City Centre
Our Submission Status: Comment