Heritage Statement Land at Lydiard Tregoze, Wiltshire

Heritage Statement

Land at Lydiard Tregoze, Wiltshire

June 2016

Contents

1. Introduction 3

2. The Heritage Assets 4

3. Significance of the Heritage Assets 7

4. Contribution of Setting to the Significance of the Heritage Assets 17

5. Impact of Application Proposals 29

6. Conclusions 33

Appendix 1: Listed Building Proformas 34

Appendix 2: Register Entry and English Heritage Advice Report dated 13 th August 2013 59

Appendix 3: Viewpoint Map of Lydiard Park 66

Appendix 4: Heritage Legislative, Policy and Guidance Context 68

Client Taylor Wimpey Oxfordshire

June 2016

1. Introduction

1.1 This Heritage Statement has been prepared by Turley Heritage on behalf of Taylor Wimpey Oxfordshire in support of an application for planning permission in respect of the proposed residential development of the open field to the south of Tewkesbury Way, an A-road running between Swindon and Lydiard Millicent, hereafter referred to as ‘the site’. The site is located in close proximity to the grade II registered Lydiard Park as well as a number of listed buildings including the grade I listed Church of St Mary.

1.2 The requirement for this report stems from the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 places a duty upon the local planning authority in determining applications for development affecting listed buildings or conservation areas to pay special regard or attention, respectively, to the desirability of preserving the building or its setting. The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) also provides the Government’s national planning policy on the conservation of the historic environment. In respect of information requirements for application, it sets out that:

“In determining applications, local planning authorities should require an applicant to describe the significance of any heritage assets affected, including any contribution made by their setting. The level of detail should be proportionate to the assets’ importance and no more than is sufficient to understand the potential impact of the proposal on their significance”.

1.3 Paragraph 129 then sets out that local planning authorities should also identify and assess the particular significance of heritage assets that may be affected by proposals. They should take this assessment into account when considering the impact of proposals in order to avoid or minimise conflict between the heritage asset’s conservation and any aspect of the proposal.

1.4 To comply with these requirements, Section 2 of this assessment identifies the relevant heritage assets within the vicinity of the site that may be affected by the development proposals.

1.5 Section 3 provides a proportionate assessment of significance of the grade II registered Lydiard Park in terms of its special historic interest. This section also provides a summaries of the significance of the identified listed buildings potentially affected by emerging proposals, based on the more detailed assessments set out in the proformas in Appendix 1. Section 4 then provides an assessment of the contribution made by setting to the significance of the heritage assets identified in Section 3, with particular focus on the contribution made by the application site.

1.6 Section 5 undertakes a review of the proposals now at final application stage and assesses the impact of the application proposals on the significance of the identified heritage assets, in light of the statutory duties of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990, national policy in the NPPF, and relevant regional and local planning policy for the historic environment (presented in full in Appendix 4).

1.7 Section 6 sets out a summary of the findings of the report.

2. The Heritage Assets

Introduction

2.1 The NPPF defines a heritage asset as:

’A building, monument, site, place, area or landscape identified as having a degree of significance meriting consideration in planning decisions, because of its heritage interest’

2.2 A plan of the heritage assets identified in relation to the application site is shown below in Figure 2.1

Key

Site Boundary

Registered Park and Garden

Listed Buildings

Figure 2.1: Heritage Assets Plan.

Designated Heritage Assets

2.3 Designated heritage assets are those which possess a level of heritage interest that justifies designation and are then subject to particular procedures in planning decisions that involve them.

Registered Parks and Gardens 2.4 The application site is located to the north of Lydiard Park which encompasses the mid- C18 th park and garden surrounding Lydiard House as well as fragmentary remains of the C17 th formal park and garden. It was included in the register of parks and gardens of historic interest at grade II by English Heritage on 1 st September 1987. A review of the register entry was then undertaken in 2014 leading to an extension of the registered parkland boundary. A copy of the register entry along with a map delineating its boundary following this review is included in Appendix 2.

Listed Buildings 2.5 The application site does not include any listed buildings. There are however, a number of listed buildings and structures located within the vicinity of the site within the Registered Park and Garden as identified below.

Name Grade

Church of St Mary I

Railings and piers to churchyard, Church of St Mary II

Railed enclosure within churchyard, Church of St Mary II

Group of 9 chest tombs in churchyard 3 metres east of II chancel east wall, Church of St Mary

Pair of Bradford chest tombs in churchyard 3 metres II south of south chancel wall, Church of St Mary

Six Matthews etc chest tombs in south corner of II churchyard, Church of St Mary

Weston chest tomb in churchyard 6 metres southeast of II south porch, Church of St Mary

Group of 4 Iles chest tombs in churchyard, 9 metres west II of west door, Church of St Mary

Walled garden north west of Lydiard Park II

Lydiard Park (Mansion) I

Sundial on terrace south of south corner of Lydiard Park II Mansion

Group of 3 chest tombs in churchyard 6 metres south II west of west door of tower, Church of St Mary

Revetments to dam of former lake II

Group of 3 chest tombs including Jacob Haywood in II churchyard 6 metres south west of south porch door, Church of St Mary

Ice House, approx. 200 metres west of Lydiard Park II Mansion

2.6 A copy of the list descriptions for the above heritage assets is included within the proforma included in Appendix 1.

Non-Designated Heritage Assets

2.7 The NPPF identifies that heritage assets include designated heritage assets identified by the local planning authority (including local listing) as having:

“a degree of significance meriting consideration in planning decisions because of its heritage interest”.

2.8 Swindon District Council does not maintain a list of buildings of significant local interest or local list. In December 2004 however, the document titled ‘ Buildings of Local Interest Supplementary Planning Guidance’ (SPG) was adopted by the Council which provides criteria for assessing buildings considered to be of significant local interest.

2.9 There are no buildings within the application site or in its immediate vicinity that could be considered to be of significant local interest, based on the criteria set out in this SPG.

3. Significance of the Heritage Assets

Significance and Special Interest

3.1 The NPPF defines the significance of a heritage asset as:

“The value of a heritage asset to this and future generations because of its heritage interest. That interest may be archaeological, architectural, artistic or historic. Significance derives not only from a heritage asset’s physical presence, but also from its setting.” 1

3.2 Listed buildings are defined as designated heritage assets that hold special architectural or historic interest. The principles of selection for listed buildings are published by the Department of Culture Media and Sport 2 and supported by Historic England’s Listing Selection Guides for each building type.

3.3 Registered Parks and Gardens are designated by Historic England on the basis of their special historic interest. A set of nine guiding selection criteria produced by Historic England is used to assess whether a designed landscape holds sufficient special historic interest to merit inclusion in the register. These criteria are complimented by a set of four selection guides produced by Historic England which describe the types of designed landscapes included in the register. The relevant selection guide for Lydiard Park is ‘Rural Landscapes’.

Assessment

3.4 The following statements include a detailed assessment of the historic development and special historic interest of the Registered Lydiard Park which is proportionate to its importance and provide a sufficient level of description to understand the impact of the application proposals. This assessment is based on existing published information, archival information and on-site visual survey.

3.5 The following assessment also provides a summaries of the significance of the identified listed buildings in the vicinity of the application site, drawing on the more detailed assessments set out within Appendix 1.

Listed Buildings

Name Summary of Significance

Lydiard Park (Mansion) A fine example of a C18 th Palladian country mansion, remodelled from a medieval manor house, much of the plan form of which survives internally in the form of the central hall and cross wings. Important and increasingly rear survival of an intact C18 th internal decorative scheme which is of high quality craftsmanship. Some survival of

1 DCLG, National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) 2012 - Annex 2: Glossary 2 DCMS Principles of Selection for Listing Buildings, 2010

Name Summary of Significance C17 th decorative features which are also of interest and contribute to the building’s architectural and historic interest. The building is of group value with the medieval parish church and the C18 th garden structures which collectively illustrate a key development phase of the estate.

Church of St Mary An important example of a C13 th , C15 th and C17 th Anglican church with C18 th and C19th additions. A number of surviving external and internal features from these key phases including the C13 th wall paintings. A degree of high quality internal features and furnishing reflecting the wealth of the church and, notably the St John family during key periods. The church is of group value with the many surrounding chest tombs, also individually listed for their architectural interest, and Lydiard Mansion with its surviving medieval plan. The building group illustrate the early medieval development of the estate and have form important commanding features of the parish.

Railings and piers to churchyard, Fine and intact example of C19 th wrought iron Church of St Mary railings with stone carved gate piers forming part of a group of structures closely associated with the medieval church. Illustrate the wealth and prosperity of the church during the C19 th .

Railed enclosure within A fine example of a C19 th enclosure of wrought iron churchyard, Church of St Mary railings with decorative elements, matching in style to the perimeter railings of the churchyard. Group value with the listed chest tombs, perimeter railings and the church.

Group of 9 chest tombs in Important example of C18 th and C19 th chest tombs churchyard 3 metres east of of good condition forming a group of chancel east wall, Church of St commemorative monuments within the churchyard Mary and illustrating the local importance of the King family during this period.

Pair of Bradford chest tombs in A pair of late C18th chest tombs, constructed for a churchyard 3 metres south of local family. Of group value with the large south chancel wall, Church of St collection of chest tombs within the churchyard as Mary well as the railed enclosure, perimeter railings and church.

Six Matthews etc chest tombs in Late C18 th and early C19th chest tombs of good south corner of churchyard, condition forming a group of commemorative Church of St Mary monuments within the churchyard.

Weston chest tomb in churchyard A late C18th chest tomb of good condition.

Name Summary of Significance 6 metres southeast of south Limestone with carved detailing. The chest tomb porch, Church of St Mary forms part of the intrinsic character of the churchyard. Group value with the many listed chest tombs in the churchyard, the railed enclosure, the perimeter railings and the church.

Group of 4 Iles chest tombs in Late C18 th and early C19th chest tombs of good churchyard, 9 metres west of condition forming a group of commemorative west door, Church of St Mary monuments within the churchyard. Of group value with the large collection of listed chest tombs, the railed enclosure, perimeter railings and the parish church.

Group of 3 chest tombs in Good examples of C19th chest tombs in good churchyard 6 metres south west condition forming a group of commemorative of west door of tower, Church of monuments illustrating the C19th development of St Mary the church complex. Also of group value with the listed church and the perimeter railings.

Group of 3 chest tombs including C19th chest tombs of good condition forming a Jacob Haywood in churchyard 6 group of commemorative monuments illustrating metres south west of south porch the C19th development of the church complex. door, Church of St Mary

Sundial on terrace south of south Ornamental feature from the time of Lydiard Park’s corner of Lydiard Park Mansion ownership by 2 nd Viscount St John, a key feature of the C18th naturalised landscape of Lydiard Park and forming a focal point in the walled garden.

Walled garden north west of English Garden Wall bond brickwork, originally Lydiard Park formal gardens, later converted to kitchen gardens during the alterations to the estate. Of group value with the listed mansion and other surviving C18th garden structures which collectively illustrate a key development phase of the estate.

Revetments to dam of former lake An important historic feature forming a key part of the C18th development of a natural landscape setting for Lydiard House and allowing the construction of the large lake. Of group value with the listed walled garden.

Ice House, approx. 200 metres Good example of a largely in-tact ice house west of Lydiard Park Mansion associated with the main house, dating from the C18th. Later alterations have served to dilute the special interest of the structure including the re- building of the frontage in red brick. Of group value with a number of other surviving C18th garden structures which collectively illustrate this key phase in the development of the estate.

Registered Park and Garden: Lydiard Park

Summary of Historic Development 3.6 The following summary of the historic development of Lydiard Park is based on the register entry contained in Appendix 2 and historic map regression and sets out the key periods of development.

3.7 Lydiard Park, the former manor of Alfred of Marlborough, was first mentioned in the Doomsday Book of 1086. From 1198, the park became known as Lydiard Tregoze when it was acquired by the Tregoze family. In 1259, Robert Tregoze was granted a royal licence by King Henry III to impark nearby woodland in order to create a deer dark. From 1300 until 1348, Lydiard was owned by the Grandison family, and subsequently by the Beauchamps.

3.8 In 1420, the estate came under the ownership of the St John family through marriage, who were to hold it until the Second World War. The Royal Court met at Lydiard in 1592 during Queen Elizabeth I’s royal progress, and then owner, John St John was knighted. In 1583, it was recorded there was a park at Lydiard Tregoze owned by Nicholas St John, and much correspondence exists from 1659-64 from Johanna St John, wife of the third baronet, who was a keen amateur gardener.

3.9 During the early C17 th , “formal gardens including a canal were created as part of changes made to the medieval house at Lydiard”3. Sir John also laid out a series of formal avenues in the park, woodland plantations and formal gardens including ponds and terraces. In 1742-3, under the ownership of the second Viscount St John, the south east and south west fronts of the House were remodelled in the Palladian style.

3.10 In 1766, these formal elements were removed and the landscape was remodelled in the more informal English ‘naturalised’ landscape, with its layout influenced by Capability Brown. The formal gardens were replaced by a lawn which led to an artificial lake, constructed on the site for a former rectangular pond, a key feature of this popular landscape style. A new sweeping drive was constructed at this time from the south, to take advantage of the southerly views of the house over the lake. The layout of the landscape at this time is illustrated in Andrew’s and Dury’s Map of Wiltshire dating from 1773 (figure 3.1). As shown in figure 3.1, the house is located in the north-east of the estate with formal gardens to the south and west.

3 National Heritage List of England, Register entry for Lydiard Park, entry number: 1001238

Figure 3.1: Extract from Andrew’s and Dury’s Map of Wiltshire, 1773 (Wiltshire District Council).

3.11 During the late C18th and early C19th the estate became neglected and largely let to tenants. In c.1830, under Henry, fifth Viscount St John, additions and reconstructions were made to the west side of the House and most of the estate was leased for hunting. A map of the estate from 1810 shows few changes to the naturalised design of the park with the driveway being maintained to the south (figure 3.2). Land to the north-east remains as open pasture land or ‘glebe’ land associated with the church and separate from the formal gardens and parkland to the south.

Figure 3.2: Extract from Andrew’s and Dury’s Map of Wiltshire, 1810 (Wiltshire District Council).

3.12 During the 1830s, this ‘glebe’ land to the north-east of the park was purchased by Lord Bollingbroke for the purpose of creating a ‘Horse Road’ from the east for the exclusive use of those attending church. The purchase of this land also allowed for the construction of a stable on the west side of the churchyard . During the early and mid- C19th, this part of the park was used as pasture, as identified in the 1841 Tithe Map, and was occupied by Thomas Plummer. This easterly ‘Horse Road’ is first illustrated in the 1886 Ordnance Survey Map (figure 3.3).

3.13 In 1885, this glebe land to the north of the house, acquired by the fifth Viscount (Lord Bollingbroke), was imparked. An additional driveway to north-east of the house and church was highlighted by Historic England as being laid out in 1911 and lined by rows of elm trees 4 as indicated in the 1924 Ordnance Survey Map (figure 3.4). This replaced the Horse Road constructed in the early C19th for the exclusive use of patrons of the church.

Figure 3.3: Extract from the 1886 Ordnance Survey Map.

Figure 3.4: Extract from the 1924 Ordnance Survey Map.

3.14 In 1920, and again in 1930, large parts of Lydiard Park were sold off, and the remainder of the heavily mortgaged estate fell into decline. From 1942, the park was used as a military hospital by the American Forces, and subsequently, at the end of the Second World War, as a prisoner of war camp. In 1943, the House and park were bought by the Corporation of Swindon, with a view to establishing a university. An extensive

4 National Heritage List of England, Register entry for Lydiard Park, entry number: 1001238

programme of repair and restoration of the House and grounds was undertaken by the Corporation and the park was opened to the public in 1995 by Lord Lansdown.

3.15 As illustrated in the 1960-1961 Ordnance Survey Map, following the war, the prisoner of war camp to the south-west was used for temporary residential use but was later vacated and gradually removed (figure 3.5).

Figure 3.5: Extract from the 1960-1 Ordnance Survey Map.

3.16 In 1974, the Lydiard Park Management Centre was opened, and during the 1980s “Lydiard Park was used as public open space, including sports pitches, play areas and other facilities”5. Changes to the park at this time included the replacement of the elms lining the east drive with lime trees.

3.17 In 1984, the Borough of Thamesdown (previously the Swindon Corporation) purchased much of the land which once formed part of the C18 th park of Lydiard and in 1985-6 the park was designated as a Country Park. A new visitor centre was built to the south of the house and the gardens, park and part of the house was opened to visitors. In the late C20th, a two-storey wing was constructed to the north-west of the house, for use as a conference centre (figure 3.6) and the house became used as a museum.

5 National Heritage List of England, Register entry for Lydiard Park, entry number: 1001238

Figure 3.6: Aerial view of Lydiard House with the C20th conference centre wing to the north-west.

3.18 As stated in the Register Entry, “in 2005, an extensive restoration programme began with funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund, which was completed in 2009” 6.

The Significance of Lydiard Park 3.19 The significance of Lydiard Park lies in its historic interest as a good example of a mid- C18th naturalised landscaped parkland and gardens which has survived relatively intact despite later phases of development. The parkland and gardens evolved from a medieval deer park to a more formalised landscape of the C17 th , features of which still remain legible.

3.20 Each phase of the development of the park is reflective of both the changing fashions in landscape design and the changed requirements and fortunes of its owners. Remains of the early phases, notably the formalised landscape of the C17 th , have partially survived in some form, either through archaeological remains or physical surviving features such as the south drive (originating from c1700). Some very fragmentary and isolated remains of the medieval deer park also likely survive, such as the ditch and stone wall bounding the south-east of the site.

3.21 The principal development phase from the mid-C18th, whilst not by a notable landscape designer, is of special historic interest due to its level of intactness. As highlighted by Historic England, the park is “a representative example of a mid C18 park associated with the house”. The C18 th designed landscape and its key features have remained fully legible and recent works have restored some of its former layout. This includes the large serpentine shaped lakes to the south-east of the house, a key feature of the C18th landscaped park (figure 3.7), the ha-ha to the south and remains of ‘The Avenue’ woodland (later enlarged in the C19th) which form the backdrop for the principal house.

6 National Heritage List of England, Register entry for Lydiard Park, entry number: 1001238

Figure 3.7: The C18th serpentine-shaped lakes, adapted from a C17 th rectangular pond.

3.22 The north and eastern extent of the park, including the site, forms part of a later development phase dating from the early C19th. It is of lesser significance relative to the C17 th and C18th surviving parkland and gardens to the south and west. However, it is of some historic interest for illustrating the later development and enlargement of the park, representing the changing fortunes of the St John family at this time. The land to the north has not been formally designed and remains as pasture land (figure 3.8). It does form an historic rural backdrop for the sweeping tree-lined drive which was created by 1911 and creates a semi-rural setting for the country park albeit with roofs visible above tree belts. This drive is also of some historic interest and is of a design that is in keeping with the picturesque and natural qualities of the C18th landscape elements (figure 3.9).

Figure 3.8: The open pasture fields to the north of the east drive of the registered park.

Figure 3.9: The late 19 th /early C20th east drive leading to the house and church.

3.23 Overall, Lydiard Park is a well-maintained park with established landscaping and water features, and an attractive and high quality area of open space. It provides a formal C18th setting for a number of listed buildings including the grade I listed Lydiard House and the grade I listed Church of St Mary along with a number of listed garden structures such as the C17 th ice house. These buildings and structures, along with the registered park form an important group which illustrate the development of Lydiard as an important C17 th and C18th estate.

Summary of Significance 3.24 Historic England included Lydiard Park in the Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest at grade II for the following principal reasons:

“Date and rarity: it is a good example of a mid C18 park where the layout clearly reflects its original design, and which contains archaeological evidence of its earlier, C17 formal layout;

Representative example: it is a representative example of a mid C18 park associated with an important country house;

Group value: the park forms a strong group with its associated heritage assets, including Lydiard House (listed at Grade I), the Church of St Mary (listed Grade I) and the listed garden structures situated within it”. 7

7 Historic England Advice Report (13 August 2013) Lydiard Park, Swindon, case no: 476988

4. Contribution of Setting to the Significance of the Heritage Assets

Introduction

4.1 The setting of a heritage asset is defined by the NPPF to comprise:

“The surroundings in which a heritage asset is experienced. Its extent is not fixed and may change as the asset and its surroundings evolve. Elements of setting may make a positive or negative contribution to the significance of an asset, may affect the ability to appreciate that significance or may be neutral.”

4.2 Historic England has provided guidance on managing change within the setting of heritage assets 8. This document sets out detailed advice on understanding what aspects of setting contribute to setting and the associated assessment of the impact of changes. The information contained within this guidance has greatly informed the following assessments, particularly in relation to the registered parkland.

4.3 As part of these assessments, a number of listed buildings have been grouped together due to their shared setting and to avoid duplication of description. This includes the chest tombs within the churchyard of the Church of St Mary and the park and garden structures within Lydiard Park.

Contribution of Setting to the Significance of Lydiard Park (Registered Parkland)

The South 4.4 The setting of the registered park in the south is formed of large agricultural fields which are separated from the park by the country lane of Hook Street. The largely unspoilt rural character of the southern setting enhances the experience of tranquillity and separation within the registered park. In particular, the lack of built form along Hook Street as one approaches the entrance to the park provides a period of transition from an urban to an “increasingly rural environment, where the perimeter of the Park is gradually revealed as the crest of the hill is approached and eventually the foreground of the Park”9.

4.5 Due to the relatively flat topography of the fields, views from within the registered park are fairly limited, however, the unspoilt character of the southern setting allows some views towards tree clumps and copses such as Letterage Copse.

4.6 Whilst not visible from with the park, the constant traffic noise generated from the M4 motorway has an urbanising effect on the rural character of this part of the setting and detracts from the experience of tranquillity and remoteness within the park.

8 Historic England, Good Practice Advice Note 3: The Setting of Heritage Assets 9 Inspector’s Appeal Decision for application reference: S/10/1153/HECO dated 17 May 2011

The West 4.7 The setting to the west of the registered park is defined by the heavily wooded area of Park Copse which restricts long range views out of the parkland and forms a strong visual buffer marking the separation of the former estate and the wider countryside (figure 4.1). It “stands as a statement to emphasise the historic status, social superiority and exclusive nature of the Park” 10 and thus contributes to its special interest . There are some limited views of Lower Hook Farm, however, due to the relatively level topography, these are fairly restricted.

Figure 4.1: View 1 - from within the parkland towards the west showing the park copse defining the west boundary in the distance (map of viewpoints presented in Appendix 3).

The East 4.8 The setting to the east of the registered park is notably more urban in character and form, marking a contrast with the open rural setting to the south and west. A strong wooded green visual barrier defines the east boundary of the parkland and marks a visual separation between the urban fringe of Swindon and the designed landscape (figure 4.2). These important tree belts which run along most of the eastern boundary down to Hook Street are of importance in providing an experience of enclosure and separation in the immediate setting of Lydiard House and the lakes, reflecting the estate’s historic exclusivity. Some urban form, notably the Greenwood Community School building, is visible above the trees within the pleasure gardens, providing a semi- rural character to this part of the park. Despite this, the experience of enclosure and separation is still appreciated.

10 EDP (November 2012) Land North of Hook Street, Swindon: Review of the Setting of Lydiard Park

Figure 4.2: View 2 -The south front of Lydiard House towards the tree belts along the east boundary.

Figure 4.3: View 3 - the agricultural fields to the north which slope slightly downwards from the registered boundary (the site is situated in the distance).

The North 4.9 The setting of the registered parkland to the north is formed of large undeveloped agricultural fields which slightly slope downwards from the registered boundary, forming a small valley and interspersed by tree belts and hedgerows (figure 4.3). As previously discussed, this part of the registered park forms a later development phase along with the east drive and lacks the more formal design qualities of the southern extent of the park. As such, they are of lesser significance relative to the formally designed parkland to the south and do not share a historic functional relationship. In addition, this part of

the park is visually separated from the C18th landscaped elements and the listed Lydiard House by tree belts and thus it does not contribute to one’s immediate experience of the mansion and the principal designed elements of the park. Experience of this part of the park’s setting is largely confined to the later east drive, the church and the area to the north reflecting the former use of this part of the park as an entrance to the church or ‘Horse Road’ from the neighbouring village.

4.10 The open fields provide a character of coherence and openness to the setting of the park - the field pattern appearing to have changed very little in terms of historic boundaries from the C19th. The open character of these fields and the change in levels allow for wide views from within the registered parkland, across the rural landscape. This adds to the experience of tranquillity, seclusion and remoteness within the park. Small pockets of built form in the background, such as the settlements of Lydiard Millicent and Middleaze, however provides a semi-rural character to the setting and allows one to appreciate the park’s location on the edge of an urban settlement (figure 4.3). Other urbanising factors include the well trafficked Tewkesbury Way which is partially visible from within the park. Overall, the contribution made by this part of the setting of the park is limited to experiential due to the lack of functional relationship with the key C18th elements of the park and its physical separation due to the presence of tree belts.

Figure 4.4: View 4 from the footpath to the north of the park (off Tewkesbury Way) towards the church tower on raised ground.

4.11 The falling topography of the fields to the north allows one to appreciate and experience the elevated position of the parkland, church and mansion and its visual status in the wider rural farmland landscape. This is clear in views looking towards the registered park from the north, across the open fields (figure 4.4). These views are however, not a purposely designed view of the heritage assets formed to accentuate their special interest. Experience of the heritage assets in this view is greatly influenced by the noise and traffic of the Tewkesbury Way in the background and is unlike views from within the more formal landscape associated with the house where there is a more tranquil character.

4.12 In terms of experience, due to the presence of the busy Tewkesbury Way, there is a much lesser sense of tranquillity and remoteness in this view that is prevalent in the views of the heritage assets within the park. Furthermore, there is an awareness of urban development both in the background and to the east, providing an experience that one is at a transition between urban and rural.

Contribution of Setting to the Significance of Lydiard Park Mansion (Listed Building)

4.13 The setting of Lydiard House is formed of the pleasure gardens and formal parkland as defined within the boundary of the registered Lydiard Park. This has evolved over the centuries in reaction to the changing fashions in landscape design and later, the changing fortunes of its owners. Despite this, as previously stated, remains of the key development phases are fully distinguishable in the landscape, notably the C18th alterations and layout to form a more naturalised landscape that enhanced the formal setting of the house.

Figure 4.5: View 5 of the south front of the listed building from the flat open terrace with eventually slopes downwards towards the lake.

Immediate Setting 4.14 The immediate setting of the house is formed of the pleasure gardens to the south-east which make an important contribution to one’s appreciation of the special interest of the listed mansion. It includes a terrace and open lawn which slopes gently down to the east towards the banks of the lakes (figure 4.5). As previously stated, these water features are a key part of the C18th naturalised landscape and provide a picturesque character and tranquil experience to the setting of the manor. The house is purposefully orientated towards the south and east to allow for views of its immediate grounds from the principal rooms.

Figure 4.6: View 6 looking from the banks of the river towards the principal frontages of the listed building with tree belts forming a frame

4.15 The gardens are surrounded by thick belts of woodland and trees which provide a strong enclosed and secluded experience of a ‘wilderness’ which contrasts with the more open character of the pleasure gardens. The listed building was intentionally positioned on high ground to emphasis its exclusivity and superiority in the landscape and the tree belts form a dramatic frame in views looking up to the building from within the open space of the gardens (figure 4.6).

4.16 The listed building shares a strong historic and functional relationship with a number of surrounding designated heritage assets which collectively illustrate the development of and historic layout of the estate from the C17 th and C18th. This includes the walled garden to the north-west and various garden structures such as the ice house and the sundial. In particular, the mansion shares a strong associative relationship with the grade I listed church of St Mary, the mansion being intentionally close to the church to highlight its importance within the parish. These two buildings also form an important group, illustrating the medieval development of the estate. Due to the presence of tree belts surrounding the mansion, views of both the heritage assets are however limited, illustrating the differing functions and individual importance of these two assets in their setting.

4.17 The original C18th principal tree lined drive located to the south-west of the house has been maintained in its original form and makes an important contribution to the special interest of the listed building. Entering off Hook Street, the drive runs directly north eastwards through the open parkland and then through the woodland surrounding the house. This provides a sense of anticipation with views of the house largely screened until one enters the pleasure gardens and lawns immediately in front of the house (figure 4.7).

Figure 4.7: View 7 looking towards the mansion from the C18th principal drive through the wilderness

The Wider Setting 4.18 The wider setting of the mansion is formed of the large open parkland, particularly to the west and south-west which provide a formal landscape setting to the mansion and heighten its visual dominance in the rural landscape.

Figure 4.8: View 8 - Thick band of trees visually separating the pleasure gardens (left) with the east drive and pasture fields to the north

4.19 The fields to the north form part of a later development phase of the historic estate, being imparked in the late C19th. They do not form part of the C18th naturalised landscape and have remained as pasture land to the present day. The fields, along with the east drive (laid out by 1911), are visually divorced from the immediate setting of the mansion due to the presence of a thick band of trees and do not form part of the experience of the approach to the south from the south-west (figure 4.8). This reflects

the former ownership and use of this part of the park - the fields previously forming glebe land and the drive provided exclusive access for visitors to the church. As such, they make a lesser contribution to the appreciation of the special interest of the listed building.

Contribution of Setting to the Significance of the Church of St Mary (Listed Building) 4.20 The listed buildings which form part of this group are identified as follows:

• The Church of St Mary; • Railings and piers to churchyard, Church of St Mary; • Railed enclosure within churchyard, Church of St Mary.

4.21 The immediate setting of the church is defined by the churchyard with its many listed chest tombs, forming an important building group which share an historic associative relationship. The early to mid-C19th railings and walls visually define the extent of the church’s immediate surroundings (also grade II listed), setting it apart from its wider rural context and providing a strong experience of enclosure, separation and sense of place (figure 4.9). The notable change in level within the churchyard also greatly contributes this experience, slightly elevating the church and tombstones and heightening their sense of religious importance in their wider rural context (figure 4.10).

4.22 These tombs and funerary monuments include:

• Group of 9 chest tombs in churchyard 3 metres east of chancel east wall, Church of St Mary; • Pair of Bradford chest tombs in churchyard 3 metres south of south chancel wall, Church of St Mary; • Six Matthews chest tombs in south corner of churchyard, Church of St Mary; • Weston chest tomb in churchyard 6 metres southeast of south porch, Church of St Mary; • Group of 4 Iles chest tombs in churchyard, 9 metres west of west door, Church of St Mary; • Group of 3 chest tombs in churchyard 6 metres south west of west door of tower, Church of St Mary; • Group of 3 chest tombs including Jacob Haywood in churchyard 6 metres south west of south porch door, Church of St Mary.

4.23 The setting of the chest tombs is tightly defined by the churchyard in which they are situated, the features being purposefully positioned close to the parish church. The chest tombs, along with the many tombstones form an important religious group which share a strong collective historic relationship with the parish church. Given the relatively small size of the churchyard, there are a notably high number of high quality grand chest tombs dedicated to various families in the parish. This relatively unusual high concentration not only illustrates the importance of this small parish church but also the prosperity of the local community which it served, particularly during the 18 th and C19th.

4.24 The setting of these monuments is not considered to extend further than the railings of the churchyard due to this close historic association with the church as they not share a historic or functional relationship with the wider landscape.

Figure 4.9: View of the enclosed churchyard surrounding the grade I listed church forming part of its immediate setting

Figure 4.10: View of the church and raised churchyard from the east drive. The raised height of the church accentuates its historic social importance and allows the building to form a landmark in local views

4.25 The principal access to the church is formed of the tree lined east drive which leads from Hays Lane to the stone gate piers of the churchyard and a modern tarmacked car park. As previously stated, this drive was laid out in the 1830s by Lord Bollingbroke for the exclusive use of patrons to the church. As found today, it forms a secondary access for the park but its original form and layout has changed very little since its C19th construction. The fairly dramatic changes in the topography and the trees lining the drive largely screen views of the church, providing a sense of anticipation (figure 4.11). The drive then partially opens up close the church allowing one to appreciate the heritage asset within its enclosed churchyard setting.

Figure 4.11: View of the driveway leading up to the church and mansion

4.26 The wider setting of church to the north is formed of the open pasture fields which provide an informal semi-rural backdrop for the church and churchyard. Historic documentation suggests that these fields originally formed glebe land up to the C19th when they, along with the drive were imparked. As such, they share some form of historic relationship with the church although this is somewhat limited as there is little visual evidence of this relationship. As previously stated, the falling topography of these fields does however, allow one to appreciate and experience the elevated position of the church in its wider rural landscape in views looking across these fields from the north, illustrating its historic importance and commanding presence (figure 4.4, page 21). As previously stated however, these views are accidental and a number of urban features in the background, notably the busy road influence one’s experience of these views and the sense of exclusivity of the heritage asset.

4.27 The wider setting of the church to the south and west is formed of the formal parkland of Lydiard Park although the church is visually divorced from this wider more formalised context by belts of trees. The church and Lydiard House, the centrepiece of park however, share an historic and functional relationship, forming an important building group along with the many listed tombstones, illustrating the medieval development of the Lydiard estate. As previously stated, both buildings were sited close together on high ground to accentuate their social importance in the landscape.

Contribution of Setting to the Significance of the Lydiard Garden Structures group of listed buildings 4.28 The listed buildings which form part of this group are identified as follows:

• Walled garden north west of Lydiard Park;

• The Ice House, approx. 200 metres west of Lydiard Park Mansion;

• Sundial on terrace south of south corner of Lydiard Park Mansion;

• Revetments to dam of former lake.

4.29 The setting of these listed garden structures is formed of the formal parkland and pleasure gardens of Lydiard Park which has developed and evolved over a number of centuries. All these structure date from the C18th and thus share an important historic and functional relationship, forming fragmentary remains of this important development phase of the parkland estate to a more naturalised landscape (figure _). Many of these structures have experienced little alteration such as the Ice House and have been retained in their original position, heightening their special interest and contribution made to the legibility of this early landscaped layout.

Figure 4.12: View of the formal lawns and planting beds in the walled garden

4.30 Overall, the many of the garden structures contribute to the changing experiences with the registered parkland such as the sense of tranquillity and remoteness (particularly experienced in the walled garden, figure 4.12) and the enclosure of the wilderness. The structures share an important functional and historic relationship with Lydiard Mansion, the structures being positioned in the parkland to serve the occupiers of this principal structure (figure 4.13).

Figure 4.13: View of the ice house within the wooded belt which forms a wilderness

4.31 The group of listed garden structures is principally located within the pleasure gardens of the park which, as previously stated, is visually divorced from the northern extent of the park, notably the C19th east drive and pasture fields. As such, the contribution made by this part of the registered parkland is considerably lesser compared to the surviving C18th formal landscape elements.

5. Impact of Application Proposals

Introduction

5.1 The affected designated heritage assets of the listed buildings and registered park and garden, have been identified and their significance described as part of this report, in sections 2 and 3 and Appendix _. The relevant heritage policy context for consideration of the application proposals is set out in full in Appendix 4. This includes the statutory duty of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 11 , national policy set out in the NPPF 2012 and supported by the NPPG 2014, and local policy for the historic environment. Together these sections and appendices provide the appropriate context for the consideration of these proposals at final application stage.

The Proposals

5.2 The application proposals comprise:

“Residential development of 48 dwellings, vehicular access from Tewkesbury Way, open space, landscaping and other infrastructure.”

Assessment of Heritage Impact

5.3 In considering the effects of the proposed development upon the significance of the relevant heritage assets, it is important to note that these are indirect in nature, arising from impact on their setting and thereby, potentially on their significance. Setting is not a heritage asset and not a heritage designation. Its importance lies in what it may, or may not, contribute to the significance of a heritage asset.

5.4 As described in Section 4, the setting the various listed buildings is the Registered Park and Garden, which in turn has a wider setting. As such, the assessment of impact for the listed buildings and the park and garden are considered in turn under a singular title.

Listed Buildings and Register Park and Garden (indirect impact) 5.5 The application site falls outside of, but immediately adjacent to, the boundary of the Registered Park and Garden. In comparison to the formal landscaped areas to the south of the house, the land to the north of the Registered Park and Garden, which was brought into the Lydiard estate in 1885 (when it was imparked and part of it was taken to provide an access for villagers to the parish church) is of lesser relative value (as it was historically used as pasture and glazing land rather than part of the formal landscape of the house). It does, however, form part of the countryside setting of the park. This, in turn, provides the setting for the listed buildings associated with it.

5.6 The proposed development comprises the construction of 48 no. dwellings to the north, and outside, of the Registered Park and Garden. Whilst this will, by its nature, change the character of the land, from grazing/pasture land to one comprising built form, it has been designed to incorporate areas of open space to retain some open character in relation to the surrounding land. A central green spine allows the landscape to flow into

11 HMSO, The Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act, 1990

the application proposals, ensuring that there is a link between the surrounding landscape and the application site. The proposals also include a circa 40 metre buffer zone at its southern edge to provide a transition between the town and field to the south.

5.7 The detailed design of the individual houses has also sought to respond to the local vernacular, akin to a small country estate rather than an overtly suburban development. The architects have used examples from the Badminton Estate, Nuneham Courtney Village and Cecily Hill, Cirencester as exemplars which are, similar to Lydiard Tregoze, are within close proximity to a number of heritage assets. This approach ensures that there is a diminution of scale across the site so that the listed Lydiard House remains as the dominant element within the landscape.

5.8 The site, and boundaries between houses, will consist of estate fencing to further retain the sense of openness and ensuring that the sense of openness continues through into to the site.

5.9 The proposed development will be limited to the north-west corner of the field, retaining open pasture land between the application site and the Registered Park and Garden.

5.10 Importantly, the layout of the proposed development retains key views towards the grade I listed St Mary’s Church, particularly from the pedestrian access from the junction of Tewkesbury Way and Hay Lane. In such views, the spire of the Church will remain discernible and will not be affected by the application proposals.

5.11 In views from within the Registered Park and Garden, the proposed development will be obscured from view from the formal landscape by mature vegetation and topography. There will be glimpsed views towards the proposed development from the roadway leading from the village to the Parish Church. However, from the driveway, existing residential properties are already visible to the north and, as a result of the bolstering of intervening landscape, the application proposals will not add significant built form to such views (which are already experienced as moving from an urban area to a country park). Where visible, the application proposals will be of an appearance akin to a residential enclave associated within a country estate and will appear complementary to the heritage asset.

5.12 From within the Registered Park and Garden (which forms the immediate setting of the listed buildings) views of the proposed development will not be possible due to intervening vegetation and built development.

Overview of Heritage Legislation

Statutory Duty 5.13 The Planning Act 1990 requires special regard to be paid to the desirability of preserving the setting of listed buildings and any features of special architectural or historic interest. Registered park and gardens and their settings do not afford statutory protection however, as designated heritage assets, they are also protected under the policies of the NPPF 2012.

5.14 It is demonstrated that the proposals have sought to avoid harm through a carefully considered and informed approach. Overall, it is considered that the proposals will

preserve elements of the setting of the listed buildings that contribute to their special interest.

National Policy and Guidance 5.15 In accordance with the requirements of the NPPF (paragraph 128), the significance of the designated heritage assets that will be affected by the application proposals have been described at Section 3.

5.16 It is demonstrated in this report that the proposed residential development would deliver new built form of a high quality design and materiality that seeks to retain as much of the open rural character of the site as an element of the wider setting of the registered parkland. The takes account of the principles of paragraph 131 of the NPPF, which encourages the desirability of sustaining and enhancing the significance of heritage assets; the positive contribution that conservation of heritage assets can make to sustainable communities including their economic vitality; and the desirability of new development making a positive contribution to local character and distinctiveness.

5.17 In accordance with paragraph 132, great weight has been given to the conservation of the affected designated heritage assets. Overall, the application proposals have been evolved and designed in light of the significance of the adjacent and nearby heritage assets. The proposals have also been greatly informed by advice from the Council’s Conservation Officer and Historic England at pre-application stage.

5.18 The NPPF sets out that any harm to, or loss of significance of a designated heritage asset should require a clear and convincing justification. There will be a change in the character of the application site, from open countryside to a residential development, affecting the countryside setting of the Registered Park and Garden and the listed buildings within it. However, the application proposals have been designed akin to a residential development within a country estate to retain a sense of openness of the application site.

5.19 Similarly, the countryside setting of the listed building and the Registered Park and Garden will change as a result of the application proposals through change to an open rural field to that which features residential housing. This change will give rise to a minor degree of harm to the significance of the heritage assets. However it forms the backdrop to a later addition to the estate of Lydiard which did not form part of the 18 th century landscaped grounds of the house and church. As established in analysis of maps, the field and those surrounding formed glebe land until the late 19 th century when the fields to the south of the site were imparked to allow for the introduction of a secondary drive. The field does not form an important backdrop to intended views looking into the site or towards Lydiard House. Whilst there is an unintended view of the church spire from the public path, steps have been taken as part of the layout plan to ensure this view is fully retained and appreciated across the site.

5.20 In considering the level of harm arising from the proposals it is important to note that the NPPF distinguishes between substantial and less than substantial. The Planning Practice Guidance (PPG) provides clear and unambiguous advice on how to identify the level of harm to the significance of a heritage asset. Importantly it states that in general terms , “substantial harm is a high test, so it may not arise in many cases”. Guidance in assessing the degree of harm likely caused has been presented in a recent court

judgment 12 which stated that when considering an impact that is non-physical or indirect such as this application, “one is looking for an impact which wold have such a serious impact on the significance of the asset that its significance was either vitiated altogether or very much reduced”.

5.21 It is clear that the test of ‘substantial harm’ is a high test that would result in the significance of a heritage asset being either entirely removed or significantly removed.

5.22 On the basis of the policy context and the relatively limited contribution the site makes to the significance of the heritage assets, it is considered that the proposed development would give rise to less than substantial harm. In such circumstances, the NPPF states that this harm should be weighed against the public benefits of the proposals as required by paragraph 134, in light of the great weight and importance to be placed on the relevant statutory duties.

5.23 In undertaking this exercise, and in accordance with the statutory duty, it has been demonstrated in this report that considerable weight should be given preserving the significance of the heritage asset as well as any contribution made by setting. The wider planning benefits are explained in the accompanying Planning Statement produced by Turley and associated documentation. These should form part of a balanced judgement by the Local Planning Authority, having regard to the scale of the harm to the significance of the designated heritage assets as presented in this Heritage Statement.

5.24 It is important to note that the NPPF also encourages Local Planning Authorities to look for opportunities for new development within the setting of heritage assets to enhance or better reveal their significance. Proposals that preserve those elements of the setting that make a positive contribution to or better reveal the significance of a heritage asset should be also treated favourably (paragraph 137). This should be born in mind when considered the application proposals at the site.

Local Planning Policy 5.25 The application proposals are not in accordance with the Wiltshire Core Strategy as the proposals will not preserve the significance of the surrounding heritage assets given the change in character of the application site from open countryside to a residential development.

Summary 5.26 The application proposals have been designed to respond to the individual site characteristics, particularly to ensure that any change to the countryside setting of Lydiard House and the Registered Park and Garden is limited through the introduction of an open and spacious character and layout. The application proposals are based on residential development associated with country estates, an appropriate design response given its location and proximity to the surrounding heritage assets. Notwithstanding this, there will be change in the character of the application site, from open countryside to a residential development. In NPPF terms, this would have a degree of harm to the countryside setting of the heritage assets however this would be classed as ‘less than substantial’. This harm is balanced against the wider planning benefits of the scheme within the accompanying Planning Statement by Turley.

12 [2013] EWHC 2847 (Admin)

6. Conclusions

6.1 This Heritage Statement has been prepared by Turley Heritage on behalf of Taylor Wimpey in respect of an application for planning permission for the erection of 48 no. dwellings on land to the south of Tewkesbury Way.

6.2 The site is situated to the north east of the grade I listed Lydiard House and associated listed garden structures and is visually divorced from these heritage assets due to the presence of a thick band of trees. The site also does not fall within the boundary of the registered park and garden. It does form part of its wider setting however, it forms the backdrop to a later element the registered parkland, which was imparked in the late 19 th century and does not present the same design quality of the 18 th century surviving landscaped grounds. As such, overall it makes a considerably lesser contribution to the significance of the heritage asset.

6.3 The application proposals have been designed to respond to the individual site characteristics, particularly to ensure that any change to the countryside setting of Lydiard House and the Registered Park and Garden is limited through an appropriate design approach. An open layout has been sought with development situated principally to the north east to allow for the view of the church spire from the public foot path to be fully retained. In terms of design, the application proposals are based on residential development associated with country estates and are an appropriate scale, bulk, form and materiality given its location and proximity to the surrounding heritage assets.

6.4 Notwithstanding this, there will be change in the character of the application site, from open countryside to a residential development. In NPPF terms, this would have a degree of harm to the significance of the designated heritage assets through a change in the character of part of their setting. The level of harm is however, considered to be less than substantial given the limited contribution the site makes to the designated heritage assets relative to the surviving 18 th century elements of the designed landscape.

6.5 The planning benefits of the application proposals are set out in the accompanying planning statement. These should be weighed in the balance against any perceived limited harm to the setting of the identified listed buildings.

Appendix 1: Listed Building Proformas

Name Lydiard Park (Mansion)

Grade I

Date Designated 17 th January 1955

Photograph

List Description History Medieval, C17 and 1745-9 (date stone in attic), last remodelling attributed to Roger Morris (C. Hussey) for John, 2nd Viscount St. John. Stone, ashlar Bath stone for remodelling, stone slate and lead roofs Inferred late medieval building of hall and cross wings. In C17 cross wings extended to H-plan. Mid C18 remodelling confined to south and east fronts, forming central hall and interconnecting state rooms, library, dining and drawing rooms. Main stair to rear of hall in earlier structure. Exterior Facade strictly Palladian, based on Houghton Hall. 2-storey with 3-storey quoined corner towers. 11 bays, centre 3 broken forward with pediment rising through roof balustrade and containing St. John arms and motto SANCTUS IN TERRA BEATUS IN COELO. Central doorcase Roman Doric, pedimented with pair of glazed doors and lobed fanlight. 16-pane sashes to ground floor, 9-pane above, all restored. Ground floor windows with pediment. 3rd and 9th windows with flat cornice. East elevation 7 bays, window corniced only at centre. Interior 7 state rooms, all of highest quality, 6 panel doors in broken and lugged doorcases with carved pulvinated frieze and plaster ceilings throughout. Flying stair to rear of hall, 3 twisted balusters to each step. First floor rooms with dentilled cornices only. Left Ante-room: dentilled cornice. Painted marbled fireplace. Open pedimented overmantel. Library: Original bookcases, broke

forward, with broken pediments and busts. Open pedimented fireplace, marble with coloured marble columns and frieze. Geometric panelled plaster ceiling. Hall: Coved ceiling. Dentilled cornice. Limestone chimneypiece of tapered pilasters with masks. Dining Room: Recess divided by Ionic columns. Rococo ceiling. Garlanded overmantle with broken pediment. Parlour: Rectangular panelled plaster ceiling, joists carved with fruit. Kentian carved Carrara marble fireplace with herm in-profile supporters. Mirrors. Ballroom: Recessed divided by Corinthian columns. Rococo ceiling. Dentilled cornice. Marble fireplace with wood overmantle, Corinthian pilasters and broken pediment with basket of flowers. Ante-room: Coffered apse. Plaster ceiling. Small marble fireplace. C17 painted glass in apse window, probably by Abraham van Linge. (Official Guide by Thamesdown Corporation. C. Hussey; Country Life, 19-20. Mar 1948; M. Archer: The Painted Glass of Lydiard Tregoze ).

Relative Significance

Architectural The building is of architectural interest as a fine example of C18th Interest mansion remodelled from a medieval manor. Much of the medieval core has been retained internally, notably the central hall and cross wings. Externally, remains of the medieval outer wall of the central hall have also been retained to the rear. The south and east fronts overlooking the C18th pleasure gardens, were modelled by the architect Roger Morris and are a good example of the Palladian style applied to country houses with quoined corner towers and simple decorative features such as straight architraves to the third and ninth floors. As described in the Buildings of England (2002), “the interior is quite excellently decorated, with equally fine workmanship in stucco, wood and stone, yet discreet throughout”. This fine interior, which includes Rococo ceilings, Kentian style wall panels has been maintained in very good condition and is an important and high quality example of a fully intact C18th Classical interior. Some remains of the former C17 th decorative scheme have been retained as part of the remodelling and are also of architectural interest. This includes the C17 th “painted glass quarries”

Historic Interest The building is of historic interest for illustrating the C18th development of Lydiard Tregoze as a substantial manor estate set within a designed landscape. The building and its high survival of fine interior decoration also illustrate the changing needs, requirements and fashions of the period and prosperity of the John Family. The remains of the medieval building both internally and externally illustrates the early development of the estate as a large medieval manor set within extensive parkland to the south. The remains of the internal hall and cross wings also have the potential to yield further about these early development phases

and the living arrangements and aspirations of the owners during this period.

Group Value Collectively, the mansion and its C18th associated garden structures form an important building group, illustrating the C18th form and layout of the Lydiard estate. The building is also of group value with the medieval church, the two buildings illustrating the early medieval layout and development of Lydiard Tregoze.

Summary of An important example of an C18th Palladian country mansion, Significance remodelled from a medieval manor house, much of the plan form of which survives internally in the form of the central hall. Important and increasingly rear survival of the C18th internal decorative scheme which is of high quality craftsmanship. Some survival of C17 th decorative features which are also of interest and contribute to the building’s architectural and historic interest. The building is of group value with the medieval parish church and the C18th garden structures which collectively illustrate a key development phase of the estate.

Listed Building

Name Church of St Mary

Grade I

Date Designated 17 th January 1955

Photograph

List Description Anglican parish church. C13, C15, C17. Limestone rubble with some ashlar. Stone slate roof and lead to aisles. Nave and north aisle, C13, 3 simple chamfered arches on piers, the west arch hollow chamfered. C15 chancel and tower, and south aisle with porch. Arcade of 3 arches South chancel chapel probably also C15, but much rebuilt as St. John family chapel in 1633. C19 vestry west of porch. 3-light Perpendicular windows with square heads and labels, 2-light to chancel. C18 east window and side openings. 3- stage tower with C18 pierced parapets and pinnacles, with later north stair. Bellstage windows perforated transennae. Angle buttresses. 3-light clerestory, north side of nave, 3 dormers to south. Sanctus bellcote. Internal Nave plastered, with wall paintings, some C13. North side; scenes from life of St. Thomas a Becket. On chancel arch; cross with 6 busts and texts below. South wall; fragmentary scenes. C17 pulpit. C19 box pews. Font, medieval, plain octagonal bowl. C17 arcaded chancel screen, crested with royal Stuart arms and supporters, probably 1633. Chancel: Communion rail, c1700, excellent ironwork with monograms, possibly Italian. Segmental plaster vault painted with sky and stars. North window, of 2 lights, reset C15 glass in head. East window, c1633, large figures and family arms. Side openings C19 glass. Reredos, C18, figures on canvas. North Aisle: C17 reset dado panelling. C19 box pews. Reset medieval glass in heads of all windows, in western, Queen of Heaven, in eastern, Archangels. South Aisle: Panelled and moulded ceiling. Medieval glass in all window

heads, some prophets. Wall painting above arcade. C17 panelled pews. South Chapel: Divided from chancel by marbled columns and entablature, and wooden railings with iron gates. Panelled and marbled ceiling beams. Reset medieval glass in window heads. Tower: West window 1859 by Alexander Gibbs, hot. Monuments: Chancel: SIR JOHN ST. JOHN, 1615, painted triptych on chalkstone base with arms. Attributed to William Larkin. Family tree maintained to later date, and within, figures of Sir John and wife. Grisaille allegorical figures on removable panels added 1699. EDWARD ST. JOHN, 1645, life sized gilded figure standing, armoured, in tent, the drapes held open by attendants. Eagle crest. MILES, 1841, by Reeves of Bath. South chapel: SIR JOHN ST. JOHN, c1635, and 2 wives, alabaster effigies, with 8 kneeling children and 4 recumbant below. Arched canopy on 8 black marble columns, within railing. SIR GILES & LADY MOMPESSON, 1633, sitting figures in arched niches, bridged over south door. Crested and pedimented canopy on columns. Inscription. JOHN, VISCOUNT ST. JOHN, 1748, by Rysbrack, coloured marbles, richly carved arms, obelisk behind. 2 hatchments. Nave: JANE HARDYMAN, 1761, stone wall tablet. WALTER HARDYMAN, 1774, tablet. South aisle: NICHOLAS AND ELIZABETH SEYIHON (St. John) 1592. Earnest kneeling figures on table under arched canopy carried on Ionic columns, symbols on soffite, inscription on frieze. Arms. All within railings. Hon. JOHN ST. JOHN, 1793, Chaste tablet by Lancashire of Bath. North aisle: ANN PLEYDELL, 1723, pedimented marble wall tablet. HENRY PLEYDELL, 1684. Slate and marble arms. Brasses: Nave: WILLIAM AND HENRY KEMP, 1642 and 1648; YORKE OF BASSET DOWN 1650; SUSANNA YORKE, 1648; ANNA DANVERS of Bainton, 1663. All with arms on separate brass. South chapel: RICHARD CORHAM, 1670. Various stone and basalt ledger slabs.

Relative Significance

Architectural Interest An important and intact example of a C13 th limestone Anglican parish church with an additional C15 th chancel and tower. Traditional Anglican church layout with central nave and end tower. High survival of important internal features of high quality craftsmanship, notably the C13 th wall paintings which are becoming increasingly rare feature of medieval churches. Also of architectural interest are features such as the C17th chancel screen, the Jacobean pulip and pews, and high quality C19th box pews. As stated in the Buildings of England (2002) the church interior is “richer than any other of similar size in the county”.

Historic Interest An important intact feature of the medieval development of Lydiard Tregoze which formed the religious centre for the

parish. The internal features, almost all attributed to the St John family, also illustrate the wealth and influence of this family on the parish, its religious service and the development of the estate as a whole, particularly during the C18th.

Group Value The church is of group value with the many listed chest tombs located in the churchyard as well as Lydiard Mansion. The building collectively illustrate the medieval development of the parish and its subsequent adaptation by various members of the St John family.

Summary of An important example of an C13 th , C15 th and C17 th Anglican Significance church with C18 th and C19th additions. A number of surviving external and internal features from these key phases including the C13 th wall paintings. A degree of high quality internal features and furnishing reflecting the wealth of the church and, notably the St John family during key periods. The church is of group value with the many surrounding chest tombs, also individually listed for their architectural interest, and Lydiard Mansion with its surviving medieval plan. The building group illustrate the early medieval development of the estate and have form important commanding features of the parish.

Listed Building

Name Railings and piers to churchyard, Church of St Mary

Grade II

Date Designated 23 rd April 1986

Photograph

List Description Gate piers, end piers and railings, early to mid C19. Limestone, with wrought iron railings on low wall, enclosing north side of churchyard. Gate piers and end piers with cinquefoil recesses panels and offsetting tops, crowned with foiled cross. Rubble dwarf wall with heavy copings supporting spear headed railings with simple arches springing from bosses beneath top rail.

Relative Significance

Architectural An important survival of high quality C19th delicate wrought Interest ironwork railings and gates in a neo-gothic design with intricate carved detail that is typical of the period. The railings have survived in good condition.

Historic Interest The railings form part of a group of structures associated with the medieval church. It is likely that they replaced earlier railings and form an important feature of the development of this local religious centre which has been on the site since the medieval period.

Group Value The railings are of group value with the listed chest tombs and the medieval church, the structures forming a fine architectural composition and illustrating the importance and prosperity of the church from the medieval period.

Summary of Fine and intact example of C19th wrought iron railings with stone Significance carved gate piers forming part of a group of structures closely associated with the medieval church. Illustrate the wealth and prosperity of the church during the C19th.

Listed Building

Name Railed enclosure within churchyard, Church of St Mary

Grade II

Date Designated 23 rd April 1986

Photograph

List Description Railings forming parallelogram enclosure, early-mid C19. Wrought iron on stone kerb. Gates on east and west sides. Alternate spear head and javelin pointed square section railings with thicker acorn-headed stanchions at corners. No upstanding feature within the enclosure.

Relative Significance

Architectural An intact example of C19th delicate wrought ironwork with Interest alternating decorative detail. Presents high quality C19th local craftsmanship.

Historic Interest Forms part the C19th development of the parish church of St Mary and illustrates the prosperity of the religious complex at this time.

Group Value The enclosure is of group value with the listed chest tombs, the C19th railings surrounding the churchyard and the church itself. Collectively, the structures form an attractive and historically important ensemble representing the importance and prosperity of the church complex in the parish.

Summary of A fine example of a C19th enclosure of wrought iron railings with Significance decorative elements, matching in style to the perimeter railings of the churchyard. Group value with the listed chest tombs, perimeter railings and the church.

Listed Building

Name Group of 9 chest tombs in churchyard 3 metres east of chancel east wall, Church of St Mary

Grade II

Date Designated 23 rd April 1986

Photograph

List Description Group of 9 chest tombs in 2 rows. Late C18 to mid Cl9. All limestone with moulded base and table and recessed corner balusters, unless otherwise described. West row, from north to south:- a. FRANCIS KING, died 1808 and JOHN KING, 1857. Side panels with coloured and gilded foliage and angels in low relief. b. BETTY KING, died 1772, JANE KING (second wife) 1785, to which has been added MARY ANN YORKE, 1883. c. FRANCIS KING, died 1745. Plain box without corner decoration and inscription on table. Also BRIDGET, his wife, died 1766. d. Low chest with chamfered base and plain top. Inscription illegible. East row, from north to south:- e. SUSANNA SHELDON, died 1806, ALEXANDER SHELDON, 1821, and JOHN SHELDON, 1836. f. RICHARD RUDLER, 1781 and MARGARET, his wife, 1784, SARAH JOTHAM, 1805, and MARGARET RUDLER, 1828. Side panels with scrolls and putti in low relief. g. RICHARD DORE KING, died 1862, and ELIZABETH, 1869. h. RICHARD DORE KING, died 1862, and SARAH SEPHHARD KING, 1896. j. ELIZABETH CLARK, died 1811, ABRAHAM HUMPHRIES, 1858, hipped table and Gothic end panels. Probably erected at the later date.

Relative Significance

Architectural Important and high quality intact examples of chest tombs Interest demonstrating design trends in funereal monuments during 18 th and 19 th centuries.

Historic Interest The chest tombs commemorate the King family, tenants of Blagrove Farm, a notably local family within Lydiard Tregoze. The quality of the craftsmanship of the chest tombs illustrates the prosperity and importance of this family and the parish of Lydiard Tregoze as a whole.

Group Value The collection of chest tombs is of group value forming part of a larger group of listed chest tombs and tombstones within the churchyard, collectively illustrating the importance and prosperity of the church.

Summary of Important example of 18th and C19th chest tombs of good Significance condition forming a group of commemorative monuments within the churchyard and illustrating the local importance of the King family during this period.

Listed Building

Name Pair of Bradford chest tombs in churchyard 3 metres south of south chancel wall, Church of St Mary

Grade II

Date Designated 23 rd April 1986

Photograph

List Description Group of 2 chest tombs, 1770-80. Limestone, moulded top and base. Plain side panels with lightly incised decoration around inscriptions. North: ANNE BRADFORD, 1770, and CORNELIUS BRADFORD, 1780. South: JOANNA BRADFORD, died 1773, and WILLIAM BRADFORD, 1778, children of parents whose inscription is illegible.

Relative Significance

Architectural Good quality and intact examples of 18 th and C19th chest tombs Interest demonstrating design trends in funereal monuments during 18 th and 19 th Centuries

Historic Interest The chest tombs commemorate the Bradford family who were tenant farmers of Can Court, then later of Midhall Farm, Lydiard Tregoze. A large box pew on the north aisle of the church is dedicated to the family. The quality and craftsmanship of the chest tombs illustrates the wealth and local importance of this family.

Group Value Of group value with the large collection of listed chest tombs in the churchyard as well as the C19th railed enclosure and perimeter railings. The structures collectively illustrate the development and importance of the church complex in the 18 th and C19th.

Summary of A high quality example of C18th chest tombs illustrating the Significance fashions in funerary architecture during this period. Of group value with the large collection of chest tombs within the churchyard as well as the railed enclosure, perimeter railings and

45 church.

Listed Building

Name Six Matthews etc chest tombs in south corner of churchyard, Church of St Mary

Grade II

Date Designated 23 rd April 1986

Photograph

List Description Group of 6 chest tombs, set in 3 rows. East row: from north to south:- a. JOHN MATTHEWS, 1832, limestone, with hipped and moulded top, and recessed corner balusters. b. Similar, inscription not clearly legible. Centre row, from north to south:- c. Limestone, moulded table, recessed corner balusters, inscription within raised oval panel. JOHN MATTHEWS, 1802, and CATHERINE. d. Limestone, similar to last but plain sides with light relief carving. WILLIAM MATTHEWS, 1774. West row, from north : ___ e. JANE PLUMMER, nee SAUNDERS, 1854 and EDWARD PLUMMER (memorial) 1894. Form as a. f. form as a. STEPHEN MATTHEWS, 1845.

Relative Significance

Architectural Important intact examples of chest tombs demonstrating design Interest trends in funereal monuments during 18 th and 19 th Centuries

Historic Interest The structures commemorated the Matthews family, likely an important local family in the community. The chest tombs Illustrate the 18 th and C19th social and religious importance of the Church of St Mary complex and the local importance of this family.

Group Value The structures are of group value, forming part of a larger collection of chest tombs within the churchyard, all collectively illustrating the importance and prosperity of the church complex in the local community.

Summary of Important examples late 18 th and early C19th chest tombs of

Significance good condition forming an important high quality group of commemorative monuments within the churchyard.

Listed Building

Name Weston chest tomb in churchyard 6 metres southeast of south porch, Church of St Mary

Grade II

Date Designated 23 rd April 1986

Photograph

List Description Chest tomb, c1798. Limestone, moulded table and base, with recessed fluted balusters and lightly incised decoration round inscriptions. SUSANNA WESTON, died 1798. JOAN WESTON, 1803.

Relative Significance

Architectural An important and intact example of chest tombs demonstrating Interest design trends in funereal monuments during C18th

Historic Interest Important funerary example illustrating the C18th development of the church of St Mary as an important local religious institution. The Weston family were likely of local importance and wealth in the community as illustrated by the quality and detailing of the tomb.

Group Value The chest tomb is of group value with the large collection of listed chest tombs within the churchyard as well as the listed railed enclosure, the perimeter railings and the church. Collectively the structures illustrate the importance and prosperity of the church complex in the local community during this period.

Summary of A late C18th chest tomb of good condition. Limestone with carved Significance detailing. The chest tomb forms part of the intrinsic character of the churchyard. Group value with the many listed chest tombs in the churchyard, the railed enclosure, the perimeter railings and the church.

Listed Building

Name Group of 4 Iles chest tombs in churchyard, 9 metres west of west door, Church of St Mary

Grade II

Date Designated 23 rd April 1986

Photograph

List Description Group of Iles family chest tombs in a row, from north to south:- a. Limestone, moulded top with reeded fascia. Recessed corner balusters. Side panels in form of incised funerary lamp. JOHN AND ELIZABETH ILES, 1820. MARY, their daughter, 1822. b. Limestone, moulded table, recessed corner balusters and cavetto base. Inscriptions not visible. c. Limestone, as last, inscriptions not accessible. d. Limestone, moulded table, recessed corner balusters, inscription in cartouches with putti corners. CATHERINE ILES, 1797. WILLIAM ILES, 1747. Tomb probably of former date.

Relative Significance

Architectural An elegant and good quality funeral structure representing the Interest C18th fashions of funeral architecture. The tombs are well detailed and in good condition with recessed corner balusters.

Historic Interest The chest tombs provide a permanent tribute to the Iles family. The quality and craftsmanship of the chest tombs illustrates the wealth and local importance of this family.

Group Value The chest tombs are of group value with the large collection of listed chest tombs within the churchyard as well as the listed railed enclosure, the perimeter railings and the church. Collectively the structures illustrate the importance and prosperity of the church complex in the local community during this period.

Summary of Late 18 th and early C19th chest tombs of good condition forming

Significance an important group of commemorative monuments within the churchyard.

Listed Building

Name Group of 3 chest tombs in churchyard 6 metres south west of west door of tower, Church of St Mary

Grade II

Date Designated 23 rd April 1986

Photograph

List Description Group of 3 chest tombs in line. Early C19 eastern: limestone, moulded table with reeded fascia, recessed decorated corner balusters and moulded base. Inscription with incised decorative borders. WILLIAM BEAMES, died 1808, ELIZABETH BEAMES, died 1850. (sic). Centre: limestone, inset hipped table, recessed corner balusters and moulded base. Inscription in panel: ELIZABETH DORE, died 1829 PETER DORE, 1819. Western: limestone, moulded table with reeded fascia, recessed decorated corner balusters. Inscriptions in round panels with lightly incised foliage around. SARAH DORE, died 1803, WILLIAM DORE, 1813, and ANN, daughter, 1831, son, JOHN, 1844, daughter, MARY, 1834 and daughter, SARAH, 1858.

Relative Significance

Architectural Intact example of chest tombs demonstrating design trends in Interest funereal monuments during C19th

Historic Interest Illustrates the prosperity and local importance of the Beames and Dores families and their standing in the local community during the C19th.

of the church complex in the local community during this period.

Summary of Important examples of C19th chest tombs of high quality Significance craftsmanship and detailing. Of group value with the large collection of listed chest tombs, the railed enclosure, perimeter railings and the parish church.

Listed Building

Name Group of 3 chest tombs including Jacob Haywood in churchyard 6 metres south west of south porch door, Church of St Mary

Grade II

Date Designated 14 th May 2002

Photograph

List Description Group of 3 chest tombs, in 2 rows. Limestone, moulded tables with reeded fascias. Recessed corner balusters and lightly incised decoration around inscriptions. East row, from north to south:- a. Illegible inscriptions in 2 oval panels, drapery over. b. REBECCA (surname illegible) 1799. 2 Oval panels. West:- c. JACOB HAYWARD, died 1801, and JANE, 1828.

Relative Significance

Architectural Intact example of chest tombs demonstrating design trends in Interest funereal monuments during C19th

Historic Interest Illustrates the wealth and importance of the families which they commemorate in the local community during the 18 th and C19th.

Summary of C19th chest tombs of good condition forming a group of Significance commemorative monuments within the churchyard. Also of group value with the church and perimeter railings.

Listed Building

Name Walled garden north west of Lydiard Park

Grade II

Date Designated 23 rd April 1986

Photograph

List Description Walled kitchen garden north-west of mansion house (q.v.). Cl8.13md- a-half inch brickwork garden wall bond. Rhomboid plan. Stone copings, some recent replacement in concrete. Gate piers with stone ball finials on south-west face recently rebuilt.

Relative Significance

Architectural The walled garden is of architectural interest as a example of an Interest C18th brick wall forming the enclosure originally forming part of a formal garden arrangement. The design of the wall is simple, reflecting the tastes of the period yet of high quality craftsmanship and materials, providing an attractive enclosed space. Recent restoration works have served to enhance some of the special architectural interest of the wall.

Historic Interest The structure forms part of a larger group of surviving garden and Group Value structures as well as the all dating from the C18th and illustrating the development of the estate into a more naturalised layout made popular by designers such as Capability Brown. Along with the C18th remodelling of the mansion, these structures form an important architectural ensemble.

Summary of English Garden Wall bond brickwork, originally formal gardens, Significance later converted to kitchen gardens during the alterations to the estate.

Listed Building

Name Sundial on terrace south of south corner of Lydiard Park Mansion

Grade II

Date Designated 23 rd April 1986

Photograph

List Description Sundial, 1716-40. Limestone, in form of heavy baluster. Bronze plate and gnomon, inscribed J. Sisson, London. Arms of 2nd Viscount St. John impaling Pelissary.

Relative Significance

Architectural Fine example of an C18th ornamental garden feature forming part Interest of the landscape layout of the park and a focal point in the walled garden. The structure recently has been moved back to its original positon which has greatly enhanced its special architectural interest.

Historic Interest Historic feature, originally located within the walled garden, was and Group Value moved to the south terrace, then relocated to its original position within the walled garden in early C21. The garden structure is of group value with the listed walled garden which it is situated. Collectively, the structures form an attractive ensemble illustrating the C18th layout of this part of the estate.

Summary of Ornamental feature from the time of Lydiard Park’s ownership by Significance 2nd Viscount St John, a key feature of the C18th naturalised landscape of Lydiard Park and forming a focal point in the walled garden. Of group value with the listed walled garden.

Listed Building

Name Revetments to dam of former lake

Grade II

Date Designated 14 th May 2002

Photograph

List Description Dam to lake, originally a causeway. Circa mid C18 adaptation as dam of circa C17 causeway. Stone rubble and brick revetments with brick crenellation with stone weathering. Original causeway about 10 metres wide constructed of packed earth between coursed stone revetments. The south revetment is buried, but the north revetment is exposed and about 3 metres tall. In about the mid C18 the causeway was adapted for use as a dam to the lake that was created in the park at that time. The west end of the revetment was extended or rebuilt in red brick, brick buttresses constructed and brick crenellation added with stone weathering. The stone weathering might be re-used material from the house, which was remodelled in 1743-9. There is a sluice off centre to east. In 1910 the dam was breached towards its east end and the lake was drained.

Relative Significance

Architectural Good example of a mid C18th castellated dam wall adapted from Interest an earlier C17 th damned structure and forming a key feature in the historic park. Of high quality in materials and craftsmanship, the structure has recently been fully restored, greatly enhancing its special architectural interest.

Historic Interest The structure is an important surviving piece of C18th and Group Value engineering. It also forms part of a larger group of surviving C18th garden structures which collectively illustrate the development of

the estate to a more naturalised landscape, forming large lakes close to the house. Along with the C18th remodelling of the mansion, these structures form an important architectural ensemble.

Summary of An important historic feature forming a key part of the C18th Significance development of a natural landscape setting for Lydiard House and allowing the construction of the large lakes.

Listed Building

Name Ice House, approx. 200 metres west of Lydiard Park Mansion

Grade II

Date Designated 14 th May 2002

Photograph

List Description Ice house, C18. Rebuilt brick front to tunnel. Dome partially exposed.

Relative Significance

Architectural Good example of an C18th ice house with internal stone dome. Interest Later alterations, notably its partial exposure and the introduction of a red brick frontage have served to somewhat dilute the interest of the structure.

Historic Interest Important surviving feature of the C18th development of the and Group Value Lydiard Estate. Partly illustrative of how the occupiers lived during the C18th. Of group value with a number of other surviving C18th garden structures

Summary of Good example of a largely in-tact ice house associated with the Significance main house, dating from the C18th. Later alterations have served to dilute the special interest of the structure including the re- building of the frontage in red brick. Of group value with a number of other surviving C18th garden structures which collectively illustrate this key phase in the development of the estate.

Appendix 2: Register Entry and English Heritage Advice Report dated 13 th August 2013

LYDIARD PARK

List Entry Summary This garden or other land is registered under the Historic Buildings and Ancient Monuments Act 1953 within the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens by English Heritage for its special historic interest. Name: LYDIARD PARK List entry Number: 1001238

Location Lydiard Park, Lydiard Tregoze, Swindon, SN5 3PA The garden or other land may lie within the boundary of more than one authority. County: District: Swindon District Type: Unitary Authority Parish: Non Civil Parish County: District: Wiltshire District Type: Unitary Authority Parish: Lydiard Millicent County: District: Wiltshire District Type: Unitary Authority Parish: Lydiard Tregoze National Park: Not applicable to this List entry. Grade: II Date first registered: 01-Sep-1987 Date of most recent amendment: 13-Aug-2013

Legacy System Information The contents of this record have been generated from a legacy data system. Legacy System: Parks and Gardens UID: 2246

Asset Groupings This list entry does not comprise part of an Asset Grouping. Asset Groupings are not part of the official record but are added later for information.

List entry Description

Summary of Garden Mid C18 park and garden laid out by the second Viscount St John, incorporating features and archaeological remains of a C17 formal park and garden.

Reasons for Designation Lydiard Park in Swindon is included on the Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest at Grade II for the following principal reasons:

* Date and rarity: it is a good example of a mid C18 park where the layout clearly reflects its original design, and which contains archaeological evidence of its earlier, C17 formal layout;

* Representative example: it is a representative example of a mid C18 park associated with an important country house;

* Group value: the park forms a strong group with its associated heritage assets, including Lydiard House (listed at Grade I), the Church of St Mary (listed at Grade I) and the listed garden structures situated within it.

History Lydiard Park, formerly known as South Lydiard, Lediar, is mentioned in the Domesday Book (1086); a former manor of Alfred of Marlborough it was acquired by the Tregoze family in c.1198, and was later known as Lydiard Tregoze. In 1270 Henry III gave Robert Tregoze a royal licence to impark a nearby woodland in order to create a deer park. From 1300 until 1348 Lydiard was owned by the Grandison family, and subsequently by the Beauchamps. In 1420 the estate came to the St John family through marriage (whose main seat was at Battersea, London), and they were to hold it until the Second World War. The court met at Lydiard in 1592 during Elizabeth I’s royal progress, and John St John was knighted. In 1583 it was recorded there was a park at Lydiard Tregoze owned by Nicholas St John, and much correspondence exists from 1659-64 from Johanna St John, wife of the third baronet, who was a keen amateur gardener.

During the early C17, probably during the time of Sir John St John, formal gardens including a canal were created as part of changes made to the medieval house at Lydiard (Swindon BC 2002). Sir John also laid out a series of formal avenues in the park. By c 1700 (Map of Lydiard Park), Lydiard had a park with formal avenues and woodland plantations, and a series of formal gardens including ponds and terraces. In 1742-3, under the ownership of the second Viscount St John, the south-east and south west fronts of the House were remodelled in the Palladian style. The house and parkland appear in two equestrian paintings by Stubbs in 1764-66. By 1766 many of the formal elements in the park had been removed, together with the formal gardens (Willington, 1766).

During the late C18 and early C19 the estate was neglected and largely let to tenants. In c.1830, under Henry, fifth Viscount St John, additions and reconstructions were made to the west side of the House and most of the estate was leased for hunting. The fifth Viscount also acquired some glebe land to the north of the House, which was imparked by 1885 (OS).

In 1920, and again in 1930, large parts of Lydiard Park were sold off, and the remainder of the heavily mortgaged estate fell into decline. From 1942 the park was used as a military hospital by the American Forces, and subsequently, at the end of the Second World War, as a prisoner of war camp. In 1943 the House and park were bought by the Corporation of Swindon, with a view to establishing a university. After the war the camp was used for temporary residential use until c 1960 when it was vacated and gradually removed. The Corporation of Swindon embarked on a programme of repair and restoration of the House and grounds, which were opened to the public in 1955 by Lord Lansdown.

In 1974 the Lydiard Park Management Centre was opened, and during the 1980s Lydiard Park was used as a public open space, including sports pitches, play areas, and other facilities. A lime avenue was planted to replace the elms along the eastern drive. In 1984 the Borough of Thamesdown (previously the Swindon Corporation) purchased further land which once formed part of the C18 park of Lydiard. In 1985-6 the park was designated a Country Park and a new visitor centre was built. The House is now a museum and in the late C20 a wing was added to the north-west of the house is in use as a conference centre.

In 2005 an extensive landscape restoration project began with funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund, which was completed in 2007-8. The majority of the site, including the former mansion, remains in public ownership with some parts privately owned.

Details LOCATION, AREA, BOUNDARIES, LANDFORM, SETTING Lydiard Park, a level site of c 149ha situated in the parish of Lydiard Tregoze, lies immediately west of Swindon, between the M4 to the south and the village of Lydiard Millicent to the north. The north- east part of the site is bounded by a small stream with late-C20 housing further beyond. To the north-west the site is enclosed by farmland belonging to Parkside Farm which abuts the northern boundary. The southern boundary is formed by Hook Street (formerly called Park Lane), with Lydiard Residential Park (excluded from the area registered here) covering part of Park Copse. To the south is farmland belonging to Lower Hook Farm, situated to the south-west, and Park Farm which abuts the far south-east corner of the site. The south-east boundary is formed by a ditch and stone wall, which are possibly medieval in origin (English Heritage 2000). The wall is lined to its east by a public footpath (outside the area here registered), and beyond it a school and its grounds (late C20). From various points within the park there are extensive views of the surrounding land that once formed part of the Lydiard Estate, including one in a southerly direction towards the site of a former C18 folly (not included in the land registered here). As marked on the OS map of 1828, this stood on a ridge in fields south of the lakes at Lydiard.

ENTRANCES AND APPROACHES The main approach lies to the south, formed by a tree-lined drive which enters off Hook Street c 570m south-west of the House and runs in a north-easterly direction to the north-west side of the House. This drive, replanted in the late C20 in a modified form, originates from c.1700 (Map of Lydiard Park). The drive to the church was created c.1812. A further approach enters 400m east of the House, where a lime avenue leads off Hay Lane in a westerly direction to a small car park to the north-west of the House and the church of St Mary. This avenue, laid out in 1911, was formerly planted with elm trees, which were replaced by lime trees in 1980. The site can also be entered by various public footpaths which cross the north-east part of the park (OS 1886).

PRINCIPAL BUILDING Lydiard House (listed at Grade I) is situated in the eastern half of the site. Together with the Church of St Mary (listed at Grade I; and several Grade II listed tombstones in churchyard) which is situated immediately to its north, it forms an important group of buildings dating back to the medieval period. The fabric of the House dates mainly from the C17, but the south-west and south-east fronts are in the Palladian style, following their remodelling of 1742-3 by the second Viscount St John. This remodelling has been attributed to the architect Roger Morris (CL 1948). Attached to the rear north-west end of the house is a late-C20 conference wing. The former L-shaped stable block, now converted to a cafe, offices and education centre, stands circa 30m to the north-west of the house.

GARDENS AND PLEASURE GROUNDS The pleasure grounds consist of a small woodland to the south-west of the House, since the late C19 called The Avenue, separated from the park by an C18 ha-ha built of brick (restored late C20), and a terrace and lawn to the south front of the House.

The woodland, which contains a network of paths and some mature trees, is crossed by the south drive and west avenue (see below). In the woodland, c 140m south-west of the House, stands an C18 icehouse (listed at Grade II, and recently restored) with, approximately 60m further to its south-west, a visitor centre introduced in the 1980s. Attached to the woodland to the south-east lies Quarr Plantation, now (2013) containing an adventure playground. The Avenue woodland dates from the C18, when it covered a smaller, oval-shaped area and was fenced (Willington, 1766). By 1885 (OS) it had been further extended and Quarr Plantation had been laid out to its south-east.

Immediately to the south-east and south-west of the House is a gravelled terrace.

To the south of the terrace is a 3ha lawn, which slopes gently down in an easterly direction towards the lakes. These were created in the late C17 and altered in the mid C18 (Map of Lydiard Park, c 1700; Willington, 1766). On the lawn stand several mature single trees, and various earthworks are visible which form the remains of the late C17 formal terraced gardens (English Heritage 2000; Map of Lydiard Park, c 1700). Adjacent to the north-west shore of the upper lake, archaeological excavations have revealed a structure believed to be a cold bath or plunge pool dating from c 1820 (Wessex Archaeology, 2004). Previously this was thought to be the site of a boathouse. There is reference to a boathouse situated on the opposite end of the lake in 1766, now no longer there. At the north end of the upper lake is a substantial mid-C18 castellated dam wall (listed at Grade II), adapted from a circa C17 causeway (Debois 2001), which was fully restored in 2006.

PARK The park stretches out to the north, south, and west of the House and pleasure grounds, its main feature being two serpentine-shaped lakes situated along the far south-east boundary of the site. On the eastern bank of the lakes is a plantation called The Pheasantry, which forms a shelter belt along the park wall on the south-east boundary of the site. The lakes were originally laid out as a formal canal, thus forming an important feature of the late C17 terraced gardens described above (Map of Lydiard Park, c 1700). By 1766 (Willington) the formal gardens were laid to lawn and the lakes had been given a less formal outline.

From the lawn immediately to the south-west of the House, a straight avenue, planted for half of its length (late C20), runs towards Park Copse in the far western corner of the site, creating a long vista. This avenue originates from the late C17 (Map of Lydiard Park, c 1700). Along the north-west boundary of the site, attached to Park Copse, lies Alder Plantation, through which runs a small stream. From the pleasure grounds to the west of the House, a late C18 avenue (replanted in the late C20) runs in a north- westerly direction towards Parkside Farm, passing Ash Plantation situated to its south- west.

The north-east part of the park is laid out on former glebe land exchanged between the Church and Lord Bollingbroke in 1812, enabling the replacement of the parsonage, new stables and the new separate drive to the church. By 1839, as indicated by the Tithe Map of that date, the land was used as pasture for grazing, and by the late C19 it had a number of public footpaths (OS map 1885). The southern boundary of the park is lined by a thin belt of trees with, halfway along its length, Elm Plantation, formerly called Oak Plantation (Map of Lydiard Park, c 1700). The southern part of the park immediately west of the south drive is the site of the former military hospital set up during the Second World War and removed in the 1960s.

WALLED GARDEN The walled flower garden (listed at Grade II) is situated c 100m north-west of the House. It has a rhomboid ground plan and its walls are constructed of red brick set in garden wall bond. The main entrance, a cast-iron gate (late C20) hung between two square brick gate piers with stone ball finials, is situated on its south side. The entrance is aligned on a short avenue planted with mixed coniferous trees introduced in the late C20, which leads south through the pleasure ground (The Avenue) to the western avenue. The garden dates back to the early C18 when it was in use as an ornamental garden with a formal layout (Wiltshire CC 2001; Willington, 1766); by the late C19 it was used as a kitchen garden (OS 1885). An early C18 bronze sundial with the arms of the second Viscount of St John (listed at Grade II) stands in the centre of the walled garden. It was moved to its current position in 2006. It formerly stood on the terrace south of the House, where it was vandalised in 2001 and subsequently put into storage. The Ordnance Survey map published in 1885 indicates that the sundial stood in the centre of the walled garden, and following its recent restoration (early C21), it was put back in this position, forming the central feature in the newly planted garden (2013).

Selected Sources Books and journals The Victoria History of the County of Wiltshire: Volume IV, (1959), 80 Pevsner, N , The Buildings of England: Wiltshire, (1975), 318 'Country Life' in , (26 March 1948), 626-629 'Wiltshire Gardens Trust Journal' in , , Vol. 28, (Autumn 1993), 7-13 'Country Life' in , , Vol. 103, (19 March 1948), 578-581 Websites A Park With a Story to Tell, accessed from http://www.wessexarch.co.uk/system/files/Lydiard%20Park.pdf Other Archaeological survey of the walled garden, Wiltshire county Council, 2001, Brief archaeologiocal survey of Lydiard Park by English Heritage, 2000, English Heritage, Lydiard Park, Swindon Survey Report, Archaeological Investigation Report, (2003) Lydiard Park Restoration and Development Plan, Swindon Borough Council, Lydiard Park Restoration Masterplan by Thamesdown Landscape Services for Swindon Council, 1992, The dam wall at Lydiard. A Historical Appraisal by Debois Landscape Survey Group, 2001, Title: A Map of Lydiard Park Source Date: c1700 Author: Publisher: Surveyor: Title: A Survey of Lydiard Park Source Date: 1766 Author: Publisher: Surveyor: Title: Andrews and Durys Map of Wiltshire Source Date: 1773 Author: Publisher: Surveyor: Title: Plan of the 302nd Station Hospital at Lydiard Park Source Date: c1940 Author: Publisher: Surveyor: Title: Tithe Map for Lydiard Tregoze Source Date: 1839 Author: Publisher: Surveyor: National Grid Reference: SU 09686 84926

Map

Appendix 3: Viewpoint Map of Lydiard Park

3 1 7

5 8 2

Appendix 4: Heritage Legislative, Policy and Guidance Context

Introduction

Any future development proposals on the site should be considered in light of the relevant statutory duties, national and local policy and guidance. The relevant policy context, specifically relating to the impact of forthcoming proposals on the significance of the identified heritage assets is summarised in this section.

Statutory Duties

The Planning (Listed Building and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 provides the statutory basis for the protection of listed buildings and conservation areas (identified as designated heritage assets within the National Planning Policy Framework, NPPF). The Act establishes that there is a statutory requirement to have special regard to the desirability of preserving the building or its setting or any features which contribute of its special architectural or historic interest.

Recent case law 14 has confirmed that Parliament’s intention in enacting section 66(1) was that decision-makers should give “considerable importance and weight” to the desirability of preserving the setting of listed buildings. Case law also established that “preserve” means to “to do no harm” (after South Lakeland).

National Policy

NPPF: National Planning Policy Framework, 2012 The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) was introduced in March 2012 as the full statement of Government planning policies covering all aspects of the planning process. One of the twelve core planning principles of the NPPF is that planning should:

‘conserve heritage assets in a manner appropriate to their significance, so that they can be enjoyed for their contribution to the quality of life of this and future generations.’

Chapter 12 outlines the Government’s guidance regarding conserving and enhancing the historic environment. Paragraph 128 outlines the information required to support planning applications affecting heritage assets. It states that applicants should provide a description of the significance of any heritage assets affected, including any contribution made by their setting. The level of detail should be proportionate to the asset’s importance and no more than is sufficient to understand the potential impact of the proposal on their significance.

In considering the effects of development upon the significance of heritage assets the NPPF (Annex 2: Glossary) defines conservation (for heritage policy) as:

“The process of maintaining and managing change to a heritage asset in a way that sustains and, where appropriate, enhances its significance.”

Paragraph 131 provides a positive emphasis with regard to determining planning applications, stating that local planning authorities should take account of the desirability of sustaining and enhancing the significance of heritage assets, and putting them into viable uses consistent with their conservation, as well as the desirability of new development making a positive contribution to local character and distinctiveness

14 Barnwell Manor Wind Energy Limited and (1) East Northamptonshire District Council (2) English Heritage (3) National Trust (4) The Secretary of State for Communities and Local Governments, Case No: C1/2013/0843, 18 th February 2014

Paragraphs 132 to 134 focuses on designated heritage assets and their setting. Paragraph 132 notes that local planning authorities should give great weight to the asset’s conservation when considering the impact on a proposed development on the significance of a designated heritage asset, and the more important the heritage asset, the greater the weight should be. It also notes that significance can be harmed or lost through alteration or destruction of the heritage asset itself, or through development within its setting.

Paragraph 133 states that proposals which will lead to substantial harm or total loss of the significance of a designated heritage asset should be refused by a local planning authority unless substantial public benefits can be achieved that outweigh that harm or low, or the following tests can be met:

• The nature of the heritage asset prevents all reasonable uses of the site; and

• No viable use of the heritage asset itself can be found in the medium term through appropriate marketing that will enable its conservation; and

• Conservation by grant funding or some form of charitable or public ownership is demonstrably not possible; and

• The harm or loss is outweighed by the benefit of bringing the site back into use.

Paragraph 134 concerns proposals which will lead to less than substantial harm to the significance of a designated heritage asset, stating that this harm should weighed against the public benefits, including securing the optimum viable use.

Paragraph 137 also notes that Local Planning Authorities should take opportunities for new developments within the setting of heritage assets to enhance or better reveal their significance. It states that proposals which preserve those elements of setting which, make a positive contribution to, or better reveal the significance of a heritage asset, should be treated favourably.

Other National Guidance

National Planning Policy Guidance, 2014 The National Planning Policy Guidance 2014 was issued by the Government as a web resource to provide more detailed guidance and information regarding the implementation of national policy set out in the NPPF 2012. It includes a category on conserving and enhancing the historic environment.

The NPPG 2014 helps to define some of the key heritage terms used in the NPPF. With regard to substantial harm, it is outlined that in general terms this is a high test, so it may not arise in many cases. For example, in determining whether works to a listed building or in its setting constitutes substantial harm, an important consideration would be whether the adverse impact seriously affected a key element of its special interest.

Public benefits are also defined in the NPPG as anything that delivers economic, social and environmental progress as described on the NPPF. Public benefits should flow from the proposed development and should be of a nature or scale to be of benefit to the public at large. Public benefits can include heritage benefit such as sustaining or enhancing the significance of

70 a heritage asset and the contribution of its setting, reducing or removing risks to a heritage asset.

Historic England, Historic Environment Good Practice Advice in Planning Note 2: Managing Significance in Decision-Taking in the Historic Environment (2015) This document provides advice on the implementation of historic environment policy in the Framework and the related guidance given in the PPG. For the purposes of this report, the advice includes: assessing the significance of heritage assets; using appropriate expertise; historic environment records; and design and distinctiveness.

It provides a suggested staged approach to decision-making where there may be a potential impact on the historic environment:

1. Understand the significance of the affected assets;

2. Understand the impact of the proposal on that significance;

3. Avoid, minimise and mitigate impact in a way that meets the objectives of the Framework;

4. Look for opportunities to better reveal or enhance significance;

5. Justify any harmful impacts in terms of the sustainable development objective of conserving significance and the need for change;

6. Offset negative impacts on aspects of significance by enhancing others through recording, disseminating and archiving archaeological and historical interest of the important elements of the heritage assets affected.

Historic England Good Practice Advice in Planning Note 3 – Setting of Heritage Assets, 2015 Historic England has published a comprehensive guide to the setting of heritage assets and good practice advice to assist local authorities and other interest parties in implementing historic environment policies and determining the extent of setting of a heritage asset.

The guidance provides a detailed description of the contribution of setting to the significance of a heritage asset and how development can impact upon this significance. It provides a stages approach to proportionate decision taking when assessing the significance of setting.

Step 1: identify which heritage assets and their settings are affected;

Step 2: assess whether, how and to what degree these settings make a contribution to the significance of the heritage asset(s);

Step 3: assess the effects of the proposed development, whether beneficial or harmful, on that significance;

Step 4: explore the way to maximise enhancement and avoid or minimise harm;

Step 5: make and document the decision and monitor outcomes.

Historic England, Conservation Principles: Policies and Guidance (2008) This guidance document sets out English Heritage’s approach to making decisions and offering guidance about all aspects of England’s historic environment. The contribution of elements of a heritage asset or within its setting to its significance may be assessed in terms of its “heritage values”:

“Evidential Value: the potential of a place to yield evidence about past human activity.

Historical Value: the ways in which past people, events and aspects of life can be connected through a place to the present.

Aesthetic Value: the ways in which people draw sensory and intellectual stimulation from a place.

Communal Value: the meanings of a place for the people who relate to it, or for whom it figures in their collective experience or memory.’ (Paras. 30-60)”

Local Policy and Guidance

The key policy document for Wiltshire Council comprises the Wiltshire Core Strategy, adopted in January 2015. Core Policy 58 (Ensuring the conservation of the historic environment) seeks to protect, conserve and, where possible, enhance the historic environment. This states that designated heritage assets and their settings will be conserved in a manner appropriate to their significance.

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