A Conservation Management Plan for 54 Northbrook Street, Newbury

MSc Building Conservation

University of York

Module BC3: Conservation of masonry

Conservation Management Plan for 54 Northbrook Street, Newbury

Guy Arnall

01/09/15

With thanks to the Newbury History Society.

BC3: Conservation plan Page 1

Table of Contents

1.0 Introduction 2

1.1 A Conservation Management Plan (CMP) for 54 Northbrook Street 2

1.2 Conservation Planning 2

1.3 Scope of Study 2

1.4 Limitations of study 3

1.5 Review 3

2.0 Understanding the Place 4

2.1 Newbury History 4

2.2 The Site – Location and context 4

2.3 The Site – Social History 4

2.4 The site – Design Intention 11

2.5 The Site – Interested Parties 12

3.0 Significance 12

3.1 Synopsis and Condition of surviving fabric 12

3.1.1 Synopsis and condition of external fabric 12

3.1.2 Synopsis and condition of internal fabric 14

3.2 Timeline 14

3.3 Statement of Significance 14

3.3.1 Architectural significance 15

3.3.2 Social significance 17

3.3.3 Status 17

3.4 Issues affecting Significance 17

3.4.1 Pressure for development of the place 17

3.4.2 Physical alterations to the building itself 20

4.0 Conservation Polices 23

5.0 Bibliography 27

Appendix 1 Northbrook Street and environs 1880s





Appendix 6 Northbrook Street and environs 2015

Appendix 7 Historic England List Entry Map

Appendix 8 Land Registry Title Plan

Appendix 9 Ground Floor Plan

Appendix 10 First and Second Floor Plan

Appendix 11 Land Registry Title

Appendix 12 Gazetteer for 54 Northbrook Street

Appendix 13 Timeline for 54 Northbrook Street

Appendix 14 Clayhill Brick Works 1880s

Appendix 15 Old Chalk Pit 1880s


1.0. Introduction

1.1. A Conservation Management Plan (CMP) for 54 Northbrook Street

This document relates to 54 Northbrook Street, Newbury, West Berkshire RG14 1AN

OS Grid Reference: SU47044 67538

At the time of writing this shop premises is due to close, with a proposal in place for

continued use as Class A1 retail premises under The Town and Country Planning (Use

Classes) Order 1987.

1.2. Conservation Planning

According to English Heritage (2008, p.7):

‘A CMP is a comprehensive document based on a detailed understanding of an historic

asset and its significance. It sets out a conservation framework, this includes policies to

ensure an assets significance is retained in any future use, repair, alteration,

development or management.’

The conservation plan aims to understand the significance of an asset through detailed

assessment of the building’s special architectural and historic interest. The plan aims to

assess the character of the building, to place the building in context (by considering the

broad range of issues to which the site is subject) as well as describe elements and

spaces within the building (a Gazetteer is available in Appendix 12). From here, a series

of policies are produced which seek to inform and guide any future changes to the

building.

1.3. Scope of Study

Existing Documentation: Research, collation and analysis of records relating to 54

Northbrook Street and its site. This research has principally included The National

Archive, Berkshire Record office, consultation with Newbury History Society and a

number of studies undertaken on behalf of West Berkshire Local Authority.

Survey of the existing physical fabric: Visual inspection of the building to produce drawn

and photographic records of surviving original fabric, fixtures and fittings and of current

condition.

Statement of Significance: Developed based on the evaluation of the place. Research


and survey have led to assessment of significance according to architectural, historic

and social criteria.

Conservation policies: Based on the assessment of significance, general conservation

policies and more specific recommendations have been identified. These should help

safeguard the most significant aspects of surviving original features of the building during

its proposed change of tenancy and potential use in the shorter term, and should inform

its on-going care and protection in the longer term.

1.4. Limitations of study

At the time of inspection on 12th June 2015 the building was still occupied by The

Accessory Queen. Access to a number of areas was not possible including the rear

stock room and the roof space.

Inspection of the external fabric was made from ground level only. Inspection was visual

only with no intrusive investigations carried out. Recommendations for further

investigations are contained within 4.0 Policies.

1.5. Review

This document describes the circumstances of 54 Northbrook Street at the time of writing

(June 2015).

This Conservation Plan should be reviewed regularly, in its entirety. The issues affecting

the significance of the building and the suitability and effectiveness of policies should

also be examined regularly. Policies should be altered, deleted or replaced as deemed

appropriate following review. It would be prudent to review the Conservation Plan every

five years or when the next change in ownership/tenancy or use occurs.


2.0. Understanding the Place

2.1. Newbury History

There has been a settlement in the location of Newbury for at least 1100 years, due to its

location on a navigable crossing of the River Kennet and the convergence of ancient

north/south and east/west routes (Newbury Town Coucil, 2015).

Economically founded on the cloth trade in the Sixteenth century (C16th) the town thrived

until the civil war (1642), when it was severely disrupted and never recovered (Page,

1924). Newbury played an important part in the Civil War, staging battles in 1643 and

again just north of the town in 1644, with Donnington Castle a Royalist stronghold (West

Berkshire Archaeological service, 2006).

The local economy flourished again in the 18th century with the rise of Bath as a popular

spa destination for the wealthy elite of London. Situated approximately half way between

London and Bath, Newbury was the obvious stopping point in the two-day journey,

gaining ever increasing popularity following road improvements of various Turnpike Acts

between 1708 and 1750 (Philens, 2013). By the mid C18th, the area of Speenhamland

(to the north of the medieval centre) was filled with coaching inns of ever increasing

grandeur and size (Page, 1924).

Newbury’s prosperity received a further boost in 1725 when work on the Kennet

Navigation was completed, making the river navigable between Reading and Newbury.

The Kennet and Avon Canal was built between 1794 and 1810 to extend this link to Bath

(Philens, 2015). The railway reached Newbury in 1847 when a branch line from Reading

to Hungerford was opened, linking the town to London. Newbury began to expand

southwards and along the line of the railway. Despite the improved infrastructure and the

growth of some local industries Newbury remained predominantly a market town (West

Berkshire Archaeological Service, 2006).

2.2. The Site – Location and context

Newbury is known to have been established by the end of the C11th; however

subsequent growth of the medieval town is not well understood (ibid). Still visible today,

the historic core of the town with the inverted Y-shape medieval layout of Bartholomew

Street, Cheap Street and Northbrook Street around the crossing of the River Kennet is

clearly evident within the earliest plan of the town dated 1768 (Fig.1).


Figure 1: John Roques Map of Newbury, 1768 (detail) (BRO ref. PM123)

Although laid out during the medieval period, archaeological evidence appears to

suggest the west side of Northbrook Street was a later phase of medieval development

as only the east side appears (from post-medieval maps) to have been laid out with

straight, narrow and regular burgage plots (Oxford Archaeology, 2005). These extend

back to the line of a stream which formed the rear boundary beyond which was The

Marsh, an area of wet ground which served as common pasture (Fig.2).The west side

was laid out in substantially wider plots, which show evidence of later irregular

subdivisions. These plots border Northcroft Mead which also served as common pasture.

Archaeological work has shown that land reclamation was carried out in this area during

the C12th (ibid).


Approximate location of

54 Northbrook Street

Figure 2: John Roques Map of Newbury, 1768 (detail) (BRO ref. PM123)

Few medieval buildings survive along Northbrook Street, as extensive rebuilding and re-

fronting took place from the C17th onwards throughout much of Newbury (West Berkshire

Archaeological service, 2006).

Today both sides of the street are lined with shops and commercial premises, the street

frontages of which still essentially preserve the medieval layout. Buildings of the C18th

and C19th predominate with few remaining from the C17th. There is a mixture of two and

three storey construction in a range of architectural styles, many of which are listed

buildings, particularly around Broadway at the top end of Northbrook Street (Oxford

Archaeology, 2005). These buildings demonstrate an interesting variety of architectural

styles and decorative finishes, but the overall effect is a cohesive streetscape (ibid).

The building at 54 Northbrook Street first appears in the 1842 Tithe map of Newbury

(highlighted in Fig.3 & 4).


Figure 3: Tithe map of 1842 (detail) showing the north of Northbrook Street. Burgage plot layout is still clear

to the east side of the street (BRO ref. D/D1/89/1)

Further cartographic evidence provides basic development of the site. As the 1842 map

shows little detail of the building, it is only with the first Ordinance Survey maps of

Newbury (1880 and 1881) that exact layout of the site becomes clear (Fig.5). No.54


appears to have two buildings directly against it to the rear (with a P indicating a

pump).To the north, a flying freehold can be seen between no. 54 and the adjacent no.

53, allowing access to the yard behind (Vine Court). There are further buildings within

the curtilage of the yard (or court) site including two substantial buildings to the west,

with associated gardens. This extended curtilage (highlighted in yelllow) perhaps implies

the 1842 Tithe schedule reference number 495 (Fig.4) also included 54 Northbrook

Street.

The OS map of 1881clearly demonstrates the number of coaching inns in the area, with

the George and Dragon the Monument almost directly to the north and south (Fig.5).

By 1900, OS maps show that one of the two buildings directly to the rear of no.54 has

been demolished, leaving a small yard between. By 1911 a new structure has been

introduced, subdividing this small yard and connecting the two buildings again (fig.7). By

the 1930s the westernmost yard buildings and their gardens had been swept away

(Fig.8) and by the 1960s the modern extension we see today has been built to the rear

(Fig.9).

Figure 4: 1842 Tithe Map (detail)


No. 54

and

possible

curtilage

Figure 5: 1881 OS Map (detail) (BRO ref. OSXXX.13.22)

No. 54

Figure 6: 1900 OS Map (detail) (BRO ref. OSXXX.13)


Figure 7: 1911 OS Map (detail) (BRO ref. OSXXX.13)

Figure 8: 1930s OS Map (detail) (DigiMap)

Figure 9: 1960s OS Map (detail) (DigiMap)


Further maps demonstrating general development of the area can be found in

Appendices 1-8 (including the Land Registry Current Title Plan).

2.3. The Site – Social History

In the census of 1841, a tailor is resident at no. 54, implying the property was

probably a shop with shop-front at this time (Newbury History Society)

The 1842 tithe schedule reference number for the site lists James Godding as

resident (BRO ref. D/D1/89/1), but there is no indication whether this Music Seller

was at no.54 itself or resident at of the other buildings within the curtilage

In the 1851Census William Whitehead - Sergeant Grenadier Guards is living in

the house that would appear to be 53 Northbrook St, with a tailor still at no.54

(Newbury History Society)

In Slater's Directory of 1852 William Whitehead is listed as a beer retailer at 53

Northbrook Street

In the 1861 Census, Whitehead is a beerhouse keeper of The Chelsea

Pensioner, resident at Grenadiers, 54 Northbrook Street; therefore this property

became a beerhouse sometime between 1851 and 1861

Whitehead moves on in 1869-1871 period, replaced by Joseph Fidgett, who

renames the no.54 The Drummers - though it also appears as Grenadiers and as

The Sergeant (Newbury History Society)

When Fidgett is replaced by William Lye in 1881, the name is definitely The

Sergeant (Census for Newbury, 1881)

Lye is replaced by William Marshall in 1883 (Newbury History Society)

Marshall is replaced by Henry Crook in Nov 1883 (ibid)

At the Annual Licensing Sessions (Oct 1884) the local magistrates refuse to

renew the license and the 54 Northbrook Street reverts to use as shop (ibid)

Costburn’s 1895 Directory lists no.54 as a Florists occupied by Mrs Brind

In the census of 1901 William Gamble – Printer is resident at no.54 with his wife

and daughter – Edith, who is listed as a News agent, working from Home

2.4 . The site – Design Intention

54 Northbrook Street exhibits typical Georgian detailing. Likely constructed during the

later Neo-Classical movement c.1760-1830 (see Appendix 12 Gazetteer: Front

windows) c.1800, the proportioning of the façade is typically late Georgian: above shop-


front cornice, columned bays are the same width as window bays, with a diminution of

window heights above (Byrne, 1986. p27).

According to Isaac Ware (1756):

‘The heights of windows for the principal storey (the piano nobile) are to be proportioned

to their breadths. We allow…twice the measure of the aperture in breadth for its

height…For the upper and middle compartments…instead of twice the breadth for the

height, the best measure for these is the diagonal, which is one and a half the breadth.’

The carefully proportioned Georgian diaper-work façade (see Appendix 12) is topped by

a parapet wall. The low pitched, hipped roof is thus partially concealed when viewed

from street level, providing the essential regular frontage of classic Georgian town house

design (see Fig. 10, overleaf).

The simple plan of the building (Appendix 9 & 10) is based on the pervasive

‘Sommerson Plan’, commonly found in Georgian terrace houses from the early C18th

with staircase located against one party wall, chimney stacks against the other (Burton,

2015).

2.5. The Site – Interested Parties

Owners: JONATHAN PHILIP RADGICK of 37 Johns Mews, London

DAVID BOULTER of 1 Wythburn Court, 34 Seymour Place, London (see

Appendix 11: Land Registry Title)

West Berkshire Council Planning Service, Market Street, Newbury

Conservation and Design Team, West Berkshire Council

West Berkshire Council Archaeological Officer, Market Street Newbury

Newbury History Society

Future Tenant

All parties responsible for remaining outline of historic curtilage


Figure 10: 54 Northbrook Street, east elevation


3.0. Significance 3.1. Synopsis and Condition of surviving fabric Appendix 12 provides Gazetteers for an overview description of the fabric of the

building, with an emphasis on distinguishing between original and altered fabric. These

have been organised by section for each space, principal building element or significant

detail, containing a brief description, reference photographs, brief recommendations and

a statement of value or significance.

Significance has been attributed as follows:

High significance: the element remains in the whole unaltered and provides a large

amount of original fabric. In this way the element displays the quality and the

character of the original design.

Medium significance: the element has been altered but some original fabric

remains.

Low significance: elements that, due to severe alteration, are not consistent with

the building’s character or design quality, or those that are ancillary to the

building’s preliminary function.

3.1.1. Synopsis and condition of external fabric

See Gazetteers in Appendix 12.

3.1.2. Synopsis and condition of internal fabric

Summary plans for the building can be seen in Appendix 9 & 10.

Internally, 54 Northbrook Street has undergone a number of alterations to the primary

structure, the most striking of which being the addition of a C20th single storey extension

at the back of the property. A doorway to the rear has been modified/introduced to allow

access. As already stated, Ordnance Survey maps indicate that historically there were

buildings to the rear, likely occupying the same footprint.

The two ground floor rooms have been opened up with the central spine wall ‘knocked

through’ by means of RSJ lintel support or something similar, now boxed in. There is little

remaining original secondary fabric at ground level. For details of significant internal

fabric see Gazetteers in Appendix 12.


3.2. Timeline

A timeline for 54 Northbrook Street can be found in Appendix 13.

3.3. Statement of Significance

3.3.1. Architectural significance

54 Northbrook Street as a fine example of West Berkshire Georgian Vernacular

Constructed c.1800, No.54 exhibits details codified in the London Building Act of 1774

which aimed at preventing poor quality construction and reducing the risk of fire.

According to Sommerson (1978, p126) the act tended to standardise the form of

Georgian house ensuring they exhibited only the most reticent forms of ornament and

served to form the early Victorian impression of ‘the inexpressible monotony of the

typical London street’.

However, no.54 is not located in the city of London. Perhaps more directly influential

were pattern-books, designed to aid local architects and builders throughout the C18th

and into the C19th. These were required partly because the Georgian style was thought

to be demanding to put into practice, as it was subject to more rules of taste (University

of Leicester, 2015). The architect James Gibbs realised this, stating that his ‘Book of

Architecture’ of 1728 was for:

‘…gentlemen who might be concerned in buildings, especially in in remote parts of the

country, where little or no assistance for design can be procured.’

Isaac Ware’s ‘A complete body of Architecture’ (1756) and William Pain's ‘The Practical

House Carpenter’ (1789), were just some of the many pattern books in circulation at this

time, their popularity continuing into the C19th with the influential ‘The Complete Builders

Assistant’ by Peter Nicholson (1823). According to Cruickshank, by 1750 the most

striking regional design differences had been ironed out (1985, p13).

However, as Burton (2015) states, it is on the edge of towns that the strict outline of

Georgian design meets the more vernacular influence. Indeed the location of no.54

outside of London has produced an even greater vernacular influence.

By 1800, the fashionable London brick was no longer red (which was superseded in

1730) but the yellow marl or malm stocks which were closer to the stone colour desired

for a classical façade (Lynch, 1993). Although still clamp fired, these were fuelled by sea

coal and the fly ash (or Spanish) from domestic hearths, making for a much more


efficient firing process (Lynch, 2015). However, it is clear that the bricks for no.54 were

still fired in a wood fuelled clamp. The even more rudimentary nature of this process (and

the uneven heat distribution that often resulted) produced a certain proportion of bricks

whose ends were over burnt to a deep blue colour. These flared headers were coloured

by the potash inclusions in the wood fuel and were often vitrified through the excessive

heat. Such bricks were sorted from the clamp on site or from the kiln in the brickyard so

the bricklayer could use them to form the Georgian Diaper pattern in his work (Brunskill,

1997. p57).

Despite slate being available (and very desirable) in and around London from the 1760s

with the advent of the canal networks ( Parissien,1997 p118), the Kennet and Avon canal

was not completed until 1810 and the strong traditions and ready availability of tile and

brick in the Berkshire area (Handscombe, 1997. p12) account for this later use of tiling.

Such practice is demonstrated by the census of 1851 where the registration district of

Newbury had 30 brick-makers over the age of twenty working in 16 different brick-yards;

almost all of which were also involved in the production of tiles (Dils, 1998. p43).

The earliest Ordnance Survey map of the area (Appendix 14) shows a potential source

for the bricks, tiles and other clay materials used for construction. The closest clay pit to

Newbury (with associated brick and tile works) is just one mile away. Similarly, the chalk

used to make hydraulic lime for construction was probably sourced from any number of

pits just outside the town, the largest of which is already labelled Old Chalk Pit by 1880

(Appendix 15).

Therefore, at a time when London is imitating prestigious stone through the use of malm

(or malmed bricks), and at a time when the when various patent stuccos were being

introduced to imitate fine ashlar work (UWE, 2009), West Berkshire construction still

utilises locally sourced, wood-fired, red brick laid in medieval inspired diaper-work. Thus

54 Northbrook Street demonstrates a superb combination of ‘modern’ pattern-book

(Georgian design value) with materials from the last vestiges of a pervasive vernacular

(illustrative historical value) still very much in evidence at that time within the polychrome

and flint elevations of the rural south-east of England (Clifton-Taylor, 1987. p253).

3.3.2. Social significance

54 Northbrook Street as a rare example of the smaller Georgian shop

According to the Lever (2014), building on previously unsettled land during 12th and 14th

centuries typically involved planning the burgage plot. With frontage to the street, the


typically merchant and trader inhabitants had direct access to the main thoroughfare

where business could be carried out. The strip of land to the rear could then be used for

a variety of purposes, including stores, workshops and kitchen gardens.

No.54 was likely constructed as a shop in c.1800 and this development perpetuated a

‘retail’ use which has origins in the medieval (possibly burgage) inception of the site.

Despite the remodelling of the shop-front, the basic layout of the Georgian design

intention remains intact.

Such retail development at the start of the C19th was a direct reflection of the burgeoning

wealth of Newbury; the Speenhamland to Marlborough Turnpike renewal act was

obtained in 1744 for repairing and widening the road to Bath (Philens, 2013) and the

area of Speenhamland just to the north was growing rich from the passing trade of

London to Bath traffic.

No.54 survived the rapid and repeated Victorian and post-war regeneration of the area

(which produced the wide range of architectural styles we see today) and sits on a site in

the heart of the medieval town which continues to partially reflect the medieval plot

layout (illustrative historical value) and the social value of the its retail inception.

54 Northbrook Street as an example of the transient beerhouse

During a time of deep, post-war economic depression and social unrest (Hobsbawm and

Rude, 2014, P.134), the Duke of Wellington’s Tory Government passed the 1830 Beer

Act in an attempt to stimulate the flagging agricultural sector, reduce the prolific

consumption of gin and to earn popular approval. The act allowed any ratepayer to sell

beer after paying an annual Excise fee of two guineas. The result was an explosion in

the number of beerhouses, 24,342 new sellers being licenced by the end of 1830

(English Heritage 2004, p.28). Many such premises were simply converted from workers’

housing and remained almost indistinguishable from surrounding buildings (Fig. 25).

It is likely that 54 Northbrook Street underwent such conversion, from a tailors shop to

beerhouse sometime between 1851 and 1861.

Reports of mass drunkenness and huge increases in drink-related crime abounded and

a slew of acts followed in attempt to gradually wrest back control from these difficult to

police and often disreputable houses. Direct reversal of policy was out of the question. It

was not until the Wine and Beer House Act of 1869 that a change in the law brought

licensing of the beerhouses back under the control of the local justices (ibid, p.31).


In November 1883, Henry Crook is convicted of keeping a disorderly house in The

Sergeant at no.54. According to court papers, prostitution was rife within the premises

and records show that neighbours were even considering installing frosted glass at the

back of their house to avoid witnessing the bawdy activity. At the Annual Licensing

Sessions of October 1884, Newbury magistrates refuse to renew the Beer License

despite the brewery's (Nutley's) promise to replace Crook and the building finally

reverted to use as a shop (Newbury History Society).

Thus, born of the dissatisfaction and dwindling economy of a post-napoleonic war market

town,no. 54 stood during second half of the C19th as a significant example of poorly

judged government policy and the more unpeasant side of an eventually flourishing

Victorian economy.

It is interesting to note the direct reflection of the name of the establishment to the

owner/landlord: William Whitehead, Sergeant in the Grenadier Guards was associated

with The Chelsea Pensioner, Grenadiers and The Sergeant.

This underlying social value of 54 is associative rather than illustrative as nothing

remains in the physical fabric to tell the fleeting story of the beerhouse, yet no.54 still has

‘ …the power to aid interpretation of the past through making connections with, and

providing insights into, past communities and their activities through shared experience

of a place.’ (English Heritage, 2008i)


Figure 25: Plan conversion of joiner’s shop in Preston into a Beerhouse, 1864 (English Heritage2004, p.29)

The Sergeant

Figure 26: No.54 as The Sergeant beerhouse with disapproving neighbours at the end of Vine Court


3.3.3. Status

54 Northbrook Street is recorded by English Heritage as a Grade II listed early 19th

Century shop (English Heritage, 1983). They state:

Three storeys. Two windows. Hipped tile roof. Multi-coloured stock brick with

plain parapet band. Gauged flat brick arches to recessed sash windows. Wooden

shop front with pilasters carrying entablature with dentil cornice; altered shop

window. Shop doorway with rectangular fanlight.

List entry Number: 1290112

Listing NGR: SU4704467538

3.4. Issues affecting Significance

This section explains the factors affecting the significance of 54 Northbrook Street as a

listed building – the mix of pressures and issues that need to be addressed when change

is contemplated so that the significance may be protected.

The objective of this section is to anticipate the range and complexity of changes that

could happen to building and site, in order to frame useful policies in Section 4 that may

serve to guide and manage the future evolution of the place.

3.4.1. Pressure for development of the place

Increase in plot ratio (new buildings on the site). The historic curtilage of no.54 is still

partially in evidence providing value to historical significance. Any inappropriate, ill-

considered placement, scale or character of new neighbouring buildings or insensitive

abutments of new extensions would detract from this. The identity of the building resides

partly in an appreciation of its medieval yard setting.

3.4.2. Physical alterations to the building itself

Necessary repairs to the building fabric. Regular maintenance of this building has clearly

been lacking. The tiled roof has leaked, leading to potential decay of brickwork, timber

roof structure and internal finishes. Measures to ensure the structural integrity and

habitability of the building are desperately required.

Change of use and constraints of the original plan configuration. For a building purpose-

designed as a retail premises with live-in accommodation, a change of use may

introduce pressures to further revise the existing layout of the building, or extend its


usable internal area. Additionally there are some minor constraints imposed upon the

already modified plan form:

There is no upstairs toilet facilities

The bedrooms to the second floor are somewhat smaller than contemporary

expectations of such space and alteration of the internal partition layout may be

suggested

Installation of new services. As existing services approach the end of their life span,

inevitable replacement presents significant risks to the building fabric. Such work is often

carried out in a fashion that can damage the special architectural and historic interest of

listed buildings: equipment, conduit and cabling can often be attached to surfaces in an

ad-hoc and ill-considered way (as already in evidence on the front elevation).

Improved Access / upgrade of existing building fabric (including access) to comply with

current Building Regulations and other legislation. No.54 will not be compliant with

current building regulations and is likely to have an inferior thermal performance to that

of a contemporary building. Whilst listed buildings are exempt from demonstrating

compliance with current Building Regulations (2010), future owners may wish to improve

the performance of the building fabric to approach the standards prescribed by current

Building Regulations.

It should also be noted that any works of alteration to an existing listed building are

subject to the Building Regulations, unless the required changes seriously diminish the

special interest of the place.

The parts of the Building Regulations that will be of particular relevance to change at

no.54 are: Part A (Structure), Part B (Fire Safety, including means of escape issues),

Part M (Access to and Use of Buildings), and Part L (Conservation of Fuel and Power).


4.0 Conservation Policies

In this section, a series of policies for responsible management of change to the listed

building and its historic curtilage are set out. These reflect the earlier sections in this

document describing the nature and significance of 54 Northbrook Street, and the issues

affecting the building.

They should be used by all those with a responsibility for the care and maintenance of

the building, and those responsible for planning and controlling change: the owner,

building management team, the planning authority, English Heritage, consultants

employed to design alterations, contractors employed to implement those alterations and

to maintain the building, and so on.

These policies are not exhaustive, nor are they fixed. They, and the whole conservation

plan, should be reviewed regularly. The suitability and effectiveness of policies should be

examined, and policies altered, deleted or replaced as appropriate.

Policy 1: Understanding and valuing the special architectural and historic

interest of the building.

Those who use and care for 54 Northbrook Street should understand the significance of

the building and its relationship with its context as set out earlier in this Plan. This

significance should be placed at the heart of the building’s management and future

planning.

Policy 2: Actively working to protect the special architectural and historic

interest of the listed building in the future use, operation and

development of the building and site.

All those who own/manage 54 Northbrook Street and plan for any future change should

ensure the significance of the building is acknowledged and reflected in management

systems and strategic planning (see 2.5 Interested parties).

Policy 3: Adopting best practice for the preservation of special architectural and

historic interest of 54 Northbrook Street [following conservation

guidelines and standards].

When change is being considered or maintenance undertaken, the significance of 54


Northbrook Street should be protected by ensuring that the highest quality is achieved in

carrying out repairs and in designing alterations. Skilled, experienced and

knowledgeable consultants and contractors with the appropriate conservation training

and skills should be used, and they should be made familiar with the significance of the

building as set out earlier in this Plan.

Policy 4: Undertaking like-for-like repairs and sourcing of suitable materials.

Wherever possible, original materials and methods of construction should be used, in the

same scale, size and proportions as the original design. Where this is not appropriate–

because the original method or material has failed or is no longer available– a solution

that is most visually and technically consistent with the architecture of the building should

be employed.

Policy 5: Reversing negatives and reinstating original character.

When change is being considered or maintenance undertaken, the opportunity should be

taken to reverse earlier poor-quality or insensitive repairs and alterations. The objective

should be to recover the architectural quality of the original building wherever possible

while ensuring the efficient working of the building and the well-being of its fabric.

Policy 6: Managing the site.

All parties with responsibility of the existing historic curtilage should be sought. This

outline should be retained as a reflection of the medieval yard planning of the town.

Policy 7: Extensions and additions should not diminish the special interest of the

existing building.

Extensions or additions should not be considered as a first option. Any reconfiguration of

the C20th rear extension should be maintained at existing height and retain the footprint

which currently reflects historic building plan.

Policy 8: The original external envelope and composition of the facades should

be retained and repaired wherever possible.

Condition of surviving building fabric should be assessed for essential repairs.

Specialist reports (including a structural engineer’s survey) should be sought to

determine the condition of the structure and any remedial repairs required. Where

original building fabric requires removal and replacement this should be on a like-


for-like basis.

External rainwater goods should be reconfigured

Note: Those responsible for management of the building’s upkeep and

maintenance should duly ensure that rainwater outlets are regularly checked for

and cleared of debris.

Articulation of Elevations

The original composition and proportions of external windows and door openings

should be retained. All existing windows and doors should be retained,

maintained and repaired where necessary.

Policy 9: Interiors of the existing listed building: all currently surviving original

fabric should be retained to avoid further erosion of the significance

and character.

Wherever possible principal spaces should not be subdivided and the original plan and

layout of the building should be respected. Original features highlighted in the Gazetteer

should be retained and repaired. New services should follow existing routes or be

concealed wherever possible. Alterations should be designed by an architect.

Policy 10: Any surviving original building fabric should be retained (see Gazetteer)

Policy 11: New and replacement services.

Replacement of original services is a task which requires sensitive judgement where

original routes cannot be followed. All equipment, pipe work, ducting and cabling

associated with new or replacement services should be selected, specified and located

so as to minimise its visual impact. Existing poorly located services on front elevation

should be rerouted where feasible (or tidied).

Policy 12: Permanent habitation of upper floors should be considered.

If sympathetic conversion/introduction of amenities were possible (there is already basic

plumbing and electricity to the upper levels) then permanent occupation here would be of

great benefit to the building. Regular heating would help mitigate the inherent problems

of damp and decay.


Policy 13: Further Investigation.

Further investigation should be undertaken particularly in relation to:

Structure and Condition of roof space

Systematic survey of Northbrook street and environs to establish rarity value of

no.54

Further assessment of proliferation of beerhouses in Newbury and their rarity as

still standing buildings

Ownership of curtilage

Policy 14: Archaeological investigation

Archaeological evidence for the early town has been found from a small number of

development sites in this area. This historic core of Newbury has a high potential for

archaeological evidence from the post-medieval period (oxford Archaeology, 2005).

Therefore any prospective below ground work should include an archaeological watching

brief.


5.0 Bibliography

British History Online (2015). The borough of Newbury. A History of the County of

Berkshire: Volume 4. Pp. 130-155. Originally published by Victoria County History,

London, 1924. Available: http://www.british-history.ac.uk/vch/berks/vol4/pp130-155 Last

accessed: 18/06/15

Brunskill, R.W. (1997). Brick Building in Britain. London:Victor Gollancz.

Burton, N. (2015). II: The Georgian Town House. [Lecture to MSc Building

Conservation]. Weald and Downland Open Air Museum, 06/05/15

Byrne,A. (1986). London’s Georgian Houses. London:The Georgian Press.

Clifton-Taylor (1987). The pattern of English building. London: Faber and Faber.

Costburn’s Directory (1895) Berkshire. Available: Berkshire Record Office.

Cruickshank, Dan (1985). National Trust and the Irish Georgian Society Guide to

Georgian Buildings of Britain and Ireland. London: Weidenfeld & Nicolson.

Dils, J.(1998). An Historical Atlas of Berkshire. Berkshire Records Society. Reading.

English Heritage. (1983). 54 Northbrook Street, Newbury. Available:

http://www.britishlistedbuildings.co.uk/en-395743-54-northbrook-street-newbury-. Last

accessed 22nd Dec 2012.

English Heritage (2008). Understanding Historic Buildings: Policy and Guidance for Local

Planning Authorities.

English Heritage (2008i). Conservation Principles, Policies and Guidance for the

sustainable management of the historic environment.

Eveleigh, D.E. (1994). Firegrates and kitchen ranges. Shire Album series.

Hammond, M. (1998). Bricks and brickmaking. Shire Publications Ltd.

Handscombe, S. (1997). Tilehurst, A History. History of Tilehurst Group. Reading.

Hobsbawm, E. and Rude, G. (2014). Captain Swing. London:Verso.

John Roques. (1768). Map of Newbury. Berkshire record Office. Ref: PM123.

http://www.british-history.ac.uk/vch/berks/vol4/pp130-155


Lever, M. (2014). Snippets of Ledbury history: Burgage Plots. Ledbury History Society.

Available:

http://www.ledburyhistorysociety.co.uk/ledburyhistory/ledburysnippets/files/5ea59d97509

536591798b9b43a9390f0-28.html

Lynch, G. (1993). Brickwork: Historic Development, Decay, Conservation and Repair.

Available: http://www.buildingconservation.com/articles/brick/brickwork.html. Last

accessed 18/06/15.

Lynch, G. (2015). The Historical Development of English Brickwork from the Tudor to the

Edwardian Period. [Lecture to MSc Building Conservation]. Weald and Downland Open

Air Museum, 07/05/15.

Murray, J. (1949). Murray’s Berkshire Architectural Guide. London:John Murray.

Newbury History Society. Personal Communication. 06/06/15.

Newbury Town Council. (2015). History of Newbury. Available:

http://www.newbury.gov.uk/history-of-newbury.php. Last accessed 12/06/15

Ordinance Survey (Various). Newbury and Kintbury. Berkshire Record Office. Ref:

OSXXX.13.

Oxford Archaeology. (2005). Newbury Historic Character Study Assessment Report for

West Berkshire Council, Heritage Service. Issue No.3.

Page,W. & Ditchfield, H. (Eds.) (1924). 'The borough of Newbury', A History of the

County of Berkshire: Volume 4. pp. 130-155. Available: http://www.british-

history.ac.uk/vch/berks/vol4/pp130-155 Date accessed: 05/06/15.

Parissien, S. (1999). The Georgian Group Book of the Georgian House. London:Aurum

Press.

Philens, H. (2013). Turnpike Trusts. Available:

http://www.hungerfordvirtualmuseum.co.uk/Themes/Transport/Coaching/Turnpike_Trust

s/turnpike_trusts.html Date accessed: 12/06/15

Philens, H. (2015). Kennet and Avon Canal.

Available:http://www.hungerfordvirtualmuseum.co.uk/Themes/Transport/Kennet_and_Av

on_Canal/kennet_and_avon_canal.html Date accesses: 08/06/15

Slater’s Directory of Berkshire (1852). Available: Berkshire Record Office.

http://www.ledburyhistorysociety.co.uk/ledburyhistory/ledburysnippets/files/5ea59d97509536591798b9b43a9390f0-28.html

http://www.ledburyhistorysociety.co.uk/ledburyhistory/ledburysnippets/files/5ea59d97509536591798b9b43a9390f0-28.html

http://www.buildingconservation.com/articles/brick/brickwork.html.%20Last%20accessed%2018/06/15

http://www.buildingconservation.com/articles/brick/brickwork.html.%20Last%20accessed%2018/06/15



http://www.hungerfordvirtualmuseum.co.uk/Themes/Transport/Coaching/Turnpike_Trusts/turnpike_trusts.html

http://www.hungerfordvirtualmuseum.co.uk/Themes/Transport/Coaching/Turnpike_Trusts/turnpike_trusts.html

http://www.hungerfordvirtualmuseum.co.uk/Themes/Transport/Kennet_and_Avon_Canal/kennet_and_avon_canal.html

http://www.hungerfordvirtualmuseum.co.uk/Themes/Transport/Kennet_and_Avon_Canal/kennet_and_avon_canal.html


Tithe Map of Newbury. (1842). Berkshire Record Office. Ref: D/D1/89.

University of Leicester. (2015). Appendix 2: How the classical style spread. Available:

http://www2.le.ac.uk/departments/urbanhistory/research/small-towns/appendix2. Date

accessed 26/06/15.

UWE. (2009). Domestic Architecture 1700 to 1960. Available:

http://fet.uwe.ac.uk/conweb/house_ages/flypast/print.htm. Date accessed 28/06/15.

Ware, I. (1756). Complete Body of Architecture Adorned with Plans and Elevations, from

Original Designs. London: T.Osborne and J.Shifton.

Watt, D.S. (2007). Building Pathology (Second Edition). London:Blackwell

West Berkshire Archaeological Service. (2006). Historic Newbury Fit for the Future: The

Newbury Historic Character Study. West Berkshire Council.

http://fet.uwe.ac.uk/conweb/house_ages/flypast/print.htm.%20Date%20accessed%2028/06/15

guy arnallUniversity of York

Jun 24, 2015 16:08Scale 1:1800

Northbrook St & environs, 1880s

0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 m

Digimap© Landmark Information Group Ltd and Crown copyright 2015. FOR EDUCATIONAL USE ONLY.

APPENDIX 1


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APPENDIX 2


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APPENDIX 3


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APPENDIX 4


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APPENDIX 5


Jun 27, 2015 12:26Scale 1:2500

54 Northbrook St & environs 2015

Def

STREET

ALBERT ROAD

PEMBROKE ROAD

WEST STREET

NO

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Northbrook Place

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10

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Longford

15

12

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Corporation Cottages

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Pelican House

1 to 14

St C

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sH

ouse

St Peter'sHouse

1

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2

23

The Clock House

44

55

4

1

43

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Saddlers

10

53

4 to 8

4

2

57a

3

PH

11

19

Shelter

47

15

95

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Church

51

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21

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59

63

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5

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HouseBrook

3836

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19

14 to 2218

22

23

5

7

8

17

622

Lynton Court

24

Westbourne Terrace

The Stables

The Old

1 to 6

77.9m

76.1m

76.0m

76.0m

76.9m

76.2m

76.2m

43 to 46

1 to 9Elliot

1 to 34Attfield

34

1 to 9Dundas

MARSH LANE

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PARK STREET

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Marsh Lane

Middle Street

Jack Street

5

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4

Elizabeth Cottage

Park Terrace1

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MartinsHaven

Fullers Court

1 to 18

24

ElSubSta

7

1 to 481 to 4

1

1

2

5

54

35

3

Speenhamland Court 12

5 to 13 9

6062

74.4m

74.9m

74.2m

75.6m

75.2m

Parkway

1 to 94Baily

1 to 22Haskins

1 to 20Melville

Shelter

WEST STR

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78

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PH

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Regents Court58

8 to 16 1 to 7

Freeman Court

36a 36c

CourtMalt

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Oxford House12 to 2081.2m

76.2m

76.1m

MAPLESPEEN COURT

SAFFRON CLOSE

GOLDWELL DRIVE

OLD BATH ROAD

JESMOND DENE

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8

1 11

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1 to 6

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2

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House

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6

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1115

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3334

292827

323130

2623

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3536

3738

3940

4142

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44

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1 to 56

88.7m

76.7m

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75.2m

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Wessex House

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Victoria Park

Putting Green

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York House

St Mary's

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73

1 to 9

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37

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6

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13 to 19

23

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1

8

El Sub Sta

24 to 32

Guildgate House10

22

2

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120

18

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193

18

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6

26

18

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2

Glandlake

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44

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House

Fairfax

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20 to 22

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Clarendon Gardens

5

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Dower House

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Weavers Walk

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26 28

45

22

26

2931

35

39

4044

2 6

8688

4572 78

76 74

90

6

TheQuadrant

8

50 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 m

Digimap© Crown copyright and database rights 2015 Ordnance Survey (Digimap Licence). FOR EDUCATIONAL USE ONLY.

APPPENDIX 6

Heritage Category:

Listing

List Entry No : 1290112

Grade: II

County:

District: West Berkshire

Parish: Newbury

For all entries pre-dating 4 April 2011 maps andnational grid references do not form part of theofficial record of a listed building. In such cases themap here and the national grid reference aregenerated from the list entry in the official recordand added later to aid identification of the principallisted building or buildings.

For all list entries made on or after 4 April 2011 themap here and the national grid reference do formpart of the official record. In such cases the mapand the national grid reference are to aididentification of the principal listed building orbuildings only and must be read in conjunction withother information in the record.

Any object or structure fixed to the principal buildingor buildings and any object or structure within thecurtilage of the building, which, although not fixed tothe building, forms part of the land and has done sosince before 1st July, 1948 is by law to be treatedas part of the listed building.

This map was delivered electronically and whenprinted may not be to scale and may be subject todistortions.

List Entry NGR: SU 47044 67538

1:2500Map Scale:

7 June 2015Print Date:Modern Ordnance Survey mapping: © Crown Copyright and database right 2015. All rights reserved. Ordnance Survey Licence number 100024900.

54, NORTHBROOK STREETThis is an A4 sized map and should be printed full size at A4 with no page scaling set.

Name:

HistoricEngland.org.uk

APPENDIX 7

This is a copy of the title plan on 14 JUN 2015 at 15:20:13. This copy does not take account of any application made afterthat time even if still pending in the Land Registry when this copy was issued.

This copy is not an 'Official Copy' of the title plan. An official copy of the title plan is admissible in evidence in a court tothe same extent as the original. A person is entitled to be indemnified by the registrar if he or she suffers loss by reasonof a mistake in an official copy. If you want to obtain an official copy, the Land Registry web site explains how to do this.

The Land Registry endeavours to maintain high quality and scale accuracy of title plan images.The quality and accuracyof any print will depend on your printer, your computer and its print settings.This title plan shows the general position,not the exact line, of the boundaries. It may be subject to distortions in scale. Measurements scaled from this plan maynot match measurements between the same points on the ground.

This title is dealt with by Land Registry, Gloucester Office.

APPENDIX 8

Title Number : BK120430

This title is dealt with by Land Registry, Gloucester Office.

The following extract contains information taken from the register of the above titlenumber. A full copy of the register accompanies this document and you should read thatin order to be sure that these brief details are complete.

Neither this extract nor the full copy is an 'Official Copy' of the register. Anofficial copy of the register is admissible in evidence in a court to the same extentas the original. A person is entitled to be indemnified by the registrar if he or shesuffers loss by reason of a mistake in an official copy.

This extract shows information current on 25 JUN 2015 at 16:09:42 and so does not takeaccount of any application made after that time even if pending in the Land Registrywhen this extract was issued.

REGISTER EXTRACT

Title Number : BK120430

Address of Property : 54 Northbrook Street, Newbury (RG14 1AN)

Price Stated : Not Available

Registered Owner(s) : JONATHAN PHILIP RADGICK of 37 Johns Mews, London

DAVID BOULTER of 1 Wythburn Court, 34 Seymour Place,London W1.

Lender(s) : None

1 of 2

APPENDIX 11

This is a copy of the register of the title number set out immediately below, showingthe entries in the register on 25 JUN 2015 at 16:09:42. This copy does not take accountof any application made after that time even if still pending in the Land Registry whenthis copy was issued.

This copy is not an 'Official Copy' of the register. An official copy of the registeris admissible in evidence in a court to the same extent as the original. A person isentitled to be indemnified by the registrar if he or she suffers loss by reason of amistake in an official copy. If you want to obtain an official copy, the Land Registryweb site explains how to do this.

A: Property RegisterThis register describes the land and estate comprised inthe title.WEST BERKSHIRE

1 (15.03.1973) The Freehold land shown edged with red on the plan of theabove Title filed at the Registry and being 54 Northbrook Street,Newbury (RG14 1AN).

2 (28.05.2003) A new title plan based on the latest revision of theOrdnance Survey Map has been prepared.

B: Proprietorship RegisterThis register specifies the class of title andidentifies the owner. It contains any entries thataffect the right of disposal.

Title absolute1 (19.09.1989) PROPRIETOR: JONATHAN PHILIP RADGICK of 37 Johns Mews,

London and DAVID BOULTER of 1 Wythburn Court, 34 Seymour Place, LondonW1.

2 (19.09.1989) RESTRICTION: No disposition by a sole proprietor of theland (not being a trust corporation) under which capital money arisesis to be registered except under an order of the registrar or of theCourt.

C: Charges RegisterThis register contains any charges and other mattersthat affect the land.1 (05.11.2014) The land is subject to the lease set out in the schedule

of leases hereto.

Schedule of notices of leases1 05.11.2014 54 Northbrook Street 16.10.2014

From and including 16.10.2014 to and including 15.10.2019

End of register

Title number BK120430

2 of 2

APPENDIX 11

Gazetteer for 54 Northbrook Street Appendix 12

Brickwork walls: High Significance

The brickwork envelope is almost wholly intact.

The front (east) elevation is of Flemish Bond brick construction, laid in traditional lime mortar.

Thought to have originated in Poland (where it has a very long history) Flemish Bond spread

to the Baltic ports and along trade routes to England, becoming the fashionable style

throughout the country by the middle of the C17th1. The particular form of Flemish pattern

seen here was named by Alec Clifton-Taylor as Georgian Diaper. The use of vitrified flared

headers and ordinary red bricks together gives a simple, steady chequer pattern to the

whole elevation2 3.

The arches above the windows are formed in gauged brick. These Red Rubbers are of a

much softer material, finished on site to fit together snugly, physically rubbed to form their

final shape and laid in thin joints of lime putty. Nicks in the length of the rubbers indicate the

position to be expected for joints across the length and they too were filled with lime putty in

imitation of mortar joints4. Although these particular arches are termed flat they in fact have a

slight camber to their soffit to counter the optical illusion of sagging. From circa 1730, the flat

arch was taken up universally as an essentially Palladian motif. Its use continued through to

the end of the Georgian era5.

These radiating voussoirs provide a compelling clue for dating the building, one which

contradicts the English Heritage Listed date. According to Murray (1949):

‘…it was in the late eighteenth century that the Berkshire brick-workers gave up making the

specially small bricks for the radiation pattern of the voussoirs of windows… such bricks

were difficult to set in the kiln, and had to be treated like pottery’6.

Due to the soft nature of these bricks, they are generally more prone to weathering and

degradation. According to Watt (2007) it is the high porosity associated with their low firing

temperature that affects durability in these bricks. Such porosity means a greater ability to

absorb water by capillary action making them more susceptible to degradation7.

The rear elevation (west) of no. 54 is more plain and utilitarian. With no parapet in evidence,

the gabled rear of the roof is clearly visible. Typical to this era of construction, the brickwork

1 Brunskill, R.W. (1997). Brick Building in Britain. p52 London:Victor Gollancz.

2Op.Cit. Brunskill, p58.

3 Lynch, G. (1994). Brickwork: History, Technology and Practice. p49. Donhead.

4 Op.Cit. Brunskill. p56.

5 Byrne,A. (1986). London’s Georgian Houses. Lojndon:The Georgian Press. p130.

6 Murray, J. (1949). Murray’s Berkshire Architectural Guide. p56. London:John Murray.

7 Watt, D.S. (2007). Building Pathology (Second Edition). p231. London:Blackwell.

is no longer of such high quality (see fig.11), formed principally in Flemish Garden-Wall Bond

(sometimes called Sussex Bond)8: instead of the alternating headers and stretchers of the

front elevation, stretchers in groups of three can be seen. Gone also are the Flared headers,

settling instead for standard red brick, as do the window arches in lieu of the finely gauged

Red Rubbers seen at the front.

The camber to the arched head of the lower window is significantly different to that of the

upper suggesting it has been rebuilt, probably when the windows were replaced (see

windows). The sill for this window has also been rebuilt in brick; a rather unsightly addition.

The modern extension constructed in stretcher bond appears to have been built on

approximately the same footprint as historic additions (see Appendix 9). There is no material

evidence in the visible rear elevation of number 54 to indicate any kind of multi-level

construction (scarring, removal/addition of brickwork), so these were originally perhaps just a

single level outhouse.

Recommendations

Any cement pointing/repairs to rear elevations to be removed from areas of originally

fair-faced brickwork and repointed in suitable lime based mortar

Some local damage to areas of brickwork require repair

Remove/reroute unsightly external cabling from front elevation

In light of pattress plate between the heads of the first floor windows - tying front

elevation to internal spine wall by means of an iron rod, investigative survey

recommended by structural engineer, with particular reference to floor timber decay

and facadism.9

Remove cement render from visible northern elevation

Replace brick cill to rear window to prevent ongoing/future damp problems

8 Op.Cit. Lynch, p50

9 Op.Cit. Lynch, p49

54 Northbrook Street, east elevation

The plain rear elevation of 54 Northbrook Street

Internal plate through spine wall in stairwell with boxed in iron rod at first floor ceiling level, restraining front

elevation

Front elevation Windows: High Significance

All the windows to the front elevation appear to be original. Those at second floor level are

three-over-six pattern sliding sashes; those at first floor level are six-over-six. All feature fine,

Lamb’s-tongue glazing bars.

It is the positioning of the windows that help refine a date for the building; set into the façade,

behind nibs of brick was a strict requirement of the 1774 London Building Act.10

The absence of horns at the base of the stiles also provides a clue for dating the windows.

These were introduced following the advent of heavier plate glass in the 1830s, allowing for

larger panes. The additional stress placed on the vulnerable joints at either end of the

meeting rail called for such horns, to provide strength. Thus, post-1830 windows generally

had larger panes with horns in place11.

It is also the case that replica Georgian windows very often had horns added unnecessarily,

therefore the absence of horns suggests they are coeval to the build and therefore of high

significance.

Recommendations

Repaint, repair and re-balance sash windows

Consider paint analysis to provide further indication of age/value/significance

Second floor front windows showing broken cords and misaligned sash (left) and first floor front elevation window

10

Summerson, J. (1978) Georgian London. p128. London:Barrie & Jenkins. 11

Parissien, S. (1999). The Georgian Group Book of the Georgian House. p96. London:Aurum Press.

Rear Elevation windows: Low significance

The windows to the rear of the property have clearly been replaced. They are both poorly

proportioned eight-over-eight pattern sliding sashes. Both are recessed and constructed

made without horns. The glazing bars of a stunted Ovolo form are clumsily jointed together

and the sashes run on a modern mechanism.

Recommendations

None.

Rear window detail, number 54 Northbrook Street

Shop-front: Medium Significance

The Georgian period was responsible for a wide variety of shop-front designs covering the

whole gamut of popular taste, from the classicism of Greek revival to the pointed-arch

glazing system of Gothik design. Shop-fronts designed to display modern, fashionable goods

were required to be of the latest design and form often followed tastes of the period. Many

such arrangements were modified with changes of ownership12.

Featuring plate-glass (a post 1830 development), the shopfront of no.54 is clearly not coeval

to the original structure. Murray (1949) lists original Georgian shop-fronts in Berkshire;

including the Old Ironmongers in Hungerford dating from the late C18th.13 Number 54 is

significant in its absence from the list and clearly of more modern construction; bowed-front

being preferred by the middle of the C18th and into the C19th.14 Significantly, the English

Heritage Listing states: altered shop window. It also includes a dentil cornice as part of the

entablature15. This is clearly no longer in evidence, suggesting further alterations made since

this date. The significance of this particular window perhaps lies in its implication;

demonstrating that no.54 was likely constructed as a late Georgian retail premises.

Recommendations

Retain.

The shop front at 54 Northbrook Street

12

Clenshaw, J. (1994). Retail Detail: Historic shopfronts. Available: http://www.buildingconservation.com/articles/shop/retail.htm. Last accessed 11 Jan 2013. 13

Murray, J. (1949). Murray’s Berkshire Architectural Guide. p49. John Murray. London. 14

Summerson, J, (2003). Georgian London (Revised Edition). p264. Yale University Press. 15

English Heritage. (1983). 54 Northbrook Street, Newbury. Available: http://www.britishlistedbuildings.co.uk/en-395743-54-northbrook-street-newbury. Last accessed 08/06/15

Late Eighteenth Century shop-front in Hungerford, Berkshire.

Roof: High Significance

The roof form is hipped to the front to provide for the parapet, a requirement first stipulated in

the 1707 Building Act16 and an essential component of the Georgian form. Roof access is

restricted but observation from the ground indicates a covering of traditional hand-made

tiles.

Restricted access prevents assessment of condition of tiles and timber.

Recommendations

Structural investigation and re-detailing of parapet. The parapet coping has been

replaced with lead and other sheet metal to the right. Not only unsightly, these are

allowing water to soak the parapet brickwork and stimulating algae and moss growth.

This will, in turn, be dampening the ends of the roof timbers causing decay and

further damage to voussoirs of upper windows

Structural investigation of roof structure to assess decay of timbers

Recording of roof structure for further assessment of significance

Re-detail guttering to northern pitch/end of parapet to prevent further saturation

Re-detail guttering to northern elevation to prevent further saturation

Re-roofing as a matter of priority to alleviate clear internal signs of

water ingress

The visible roof structure of 54 Northbrook Street from street level

16

Op.Cit. Byrne p126

Parapet Coping problems at 54 Northbrook Street

Parapet gutter drainage to right of façade

Failed guttering, North Elevation

Water ingress in second floor, front room

Water ingress in second floor, front room

Hob Grate: High Significance

The back room on the first floor contains a striking original feature: an original hob-grate.

The first variations of these grates appeared in the 1720s, comprising of a basket (of three

fire bars) flanked by flat-topped hobs, designed to keep kettles and pots warm. By 1780,

hob-grates had become hugely popular. The hob was available in three different styles. Here

we see Pantheon. By 1810 the situation had changed markedly and new, heat efficient

grates were prevalent17.

This feature, clearly coeval to construction, helps further confirm the building date to c.1800.

Recommendations

Retain.

Original hob grate in back room, first floor

17

Eveleigh, D.E. (1994). Firegrates and kitchen ranges.P.4. Shire Album series.

Surviving Internal Joinery: High significance

The principal staircase structure is perhaps original throughout, although carpeting and

boxing-in provide little opportunity to confirm this. On the first flight, staircase elements of

handrail, balusters and newel post are all C20th alterations.

On the second flight however, an original handrail survives and is highly significant as

surviving original joinery.

The skirting and architrave throughout the upper levels of the house are original and of the

most basic rectangular section, with the exception of the front room and landing of the first

floor. Termed the Piano Nobile in the grander Georgian houses it formed the main living

room for the occupying family. Thus, the decoration here is at its most ornate.

The skirting is original around three sides of the room and of Cavetto section with a bead.

The architrave around the doors is also more ornate with a Cyma Reversa section with a

square bead (overleaf).

There is no further significant fabric due to extensive re-modelling.

Recommendations

Retain.

Surviving internal joinery on upper levels

Timeline for 54 Northbrook Street Appendix 13

1079 The first documentary mention of Newbury, then ‘Neoburiae’,

appears in land grant of 1079 (Oxford Archaeology, 2006)

C12th Land reclamation and expansion of town along Northbrook Street

1643 First Battle of Newbury, English Civil War

1644 Second Battle of Newbury, English Civil War

1723 River Kennet navigable between Reading and Newbury

1768 John Roque produces map of Newbury demonstrating building

layout prior to construction of no.54

1784 The fast mail coach service from Bath to London introduced

1799 Napoleonic Wars begin

c1800 54 Northbrook Street constructed

1810 Kennet and Avon Canal completed

1815 End of the Napoleonic Wars

1830 1830 Beer Act results in proliferation of beerhouses

1841 Tailor shown as resident at no.54 in the Census of that year

1847 The railway reaches Newbury

1851 William Whitehead - Sergeant Grenadier Guards is living in the

house that would appear to be 53 Northbrook Street

1852 William Whitehead – Beer Seller is living at 53 Northbrook Street

1861 William Whitehead Beerhouse keeper of Chelsea Pensioner is a

resident at Grenadiers, 54 Northbrook Street

1871 Joseph Fidgett renames beerhouse at no.54 The Drummers - though

it also appears as Grenadiers and as The Sergeant elsewhere

1881 Fidgett is replaced by William Lye, no.54 (definitely called The

Sergeant)

1883 Lye is replaced by William Marshall in 1883

November 1883 Marshall is replaced by Henry Crook

October 1884 Building reverts to use as shop

1895 Mrs Brind running premises as a Florist according to the Census of

that year

1901 Edith Gamble listed as a News agent, working from Home according

to the Census of that year


Jun 25, 2015 14:24Scale 1:1800

Clayhill Brick Works, 1880s

0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 m


APPENDIX 14


Jun 28, 2015 14:46Scale 1:1250

Old Chalk Pit, 1880s

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 m


APPENDIX 15

A Conservation Management Plan for 54 Northbrook Street, Newbury

Documents

Transcript of A Conservation Management Plan for 54 Northbrook Street, Newbury