Planning Committee to decide on upgrade for Blue Plaque home of historic architect

A plan for a rear extension at the former home of architect and artist Joseph Gandy (1771-1843) at Grove Park Terrace was referred to Hounslow Council's Planning Committee for a decision, following concerns by local councillors.

The application was 'called in' at last week's Chiswick Area Forum where councillor Sam Hearn expressed fears that it could materially damage the historic home which has an English Heritage Blue Plaque.

The application is for an extension and erection of a single storey rear extension at lower ground floor level, including
minor alterations to the internal layout.

The matters raised in objection were : Large and inappropriate design; Harm to the appearace of the Listed Building and wider area; Loss of historic fabric of site resulting from enlarged sunken garden space.

Cllr Hearn said that while the decision on the style of the new extension was a subjective one, and it was a domestic dwelling, he was nevertheless concerned that it was an important building because of its connection with Gandy. He was unhappy that the matter be dealt with by one planning officer.

Cllr Peter Thompson believed that given the heritage value it needed careful thought. Cllr Samantha Davies asked if the applicant was aware of the 'call in' and she was told they were.

The meeting voted 4-0 in favour of referring the matter to Planning Committee (one abstention).

Joseph Gandy's work included the Phoenix Fire and Pelican Life Insurance Offices (1804–1805, destroyed c.?1920) in London, Doric House at Sion Hill in Bath (1818), and the remodelling of Swerford Park house in Oxfordshire (1824–1829.

January 29, 2018