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Appendix A LONDON BOROUGH OF TOWER HAMLETS CONSERVATION AREAS TOWER HAMLETS

0 500 1,000 Metres

35 31

38 36 24 41 1 13 10 7 37 22 33 42 30 32 27 4 5 12 48

14 40 23 44 43 50 46 9 34 6 49 39 45 8 47 25 3 26 28 21 15 19 18 20

2 16

Legend Conservation Areas for which Appraisals and Management Plans have been 29 prepared in 2006/07 11

1. Bethnal Green Gardens 18. The Tower 35. Roman Road Market 2. Wapping Pierhead 19. West India Dock 36. Medway 3. St George's Town Hall 20. Wapping Wall 37. Clinton Road 4. Elder Street 21. St Paul's Church 38. Fairfield Road 5. Brick Lane and Fournier Street 22. Boundary Estate 39. Lowell Street 6. Albert Gardens 23. Ford Square 40. London Hospital 7. Tomlins Grove 24. Jesus Hospital Estate 41. Globe Road 8. St Annes Church 25. All Saints Church Poplar 42. St Peter's 9. York Square 26. St Mathias Church Poplar 43. Langdon Park 10. Tredegar Square 27. Ropery Street 44. Wentworth Street 11. Island Gardens 28. Naval Row 45. St Frideswide's 12. Stepney Green 29. Chapel House 46. Myrdle Street 13. Three Mills 30. Tower Hamlets Cemetery 47. Lansbury 14. Artillary Passage 31. Driffield Road 48. Whitechapel Market 15. Narrow Street 32. Swaton Road 49. Balfron Tower 16. Coldharbour 33. Carlton Square 50. Whitechapel High 17. Victoria Park 34. Commercial Road Street

This map is indicative only and is not a planning document. For further information please contact the Council. Produced 9 October 2006 from Ordnance Survey digital data and incorporating Surveyed revision available at this date. © Crown Copyright 1998. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without prior permission of the Ordnance Survey. Supplied by: London Borough of Tower Hamlets LA100019288

Appendix B:

Conservation Area Character Appraisals and Management Guidelines

One document has been produced for each of the following conservation areas:

• Bethnal Green Gardens • Wapping Pierhead • St George’s Town Hall • Elder Street • Brick Lane and Fournier Street • Tomlins Grove • Island Gardens • Three Mills • Artillery Passage • Narrow Street • Coldharbour • Victoria Park • West India Dock • Wapping Wall • St Paul’s Church, Shadwell • Boundary Estate • Ford Square / Sidney Square • All Saints Church, Poplar • Ropery Street • Naval Row • Chapel House • Tower Hamlets Cemetery • Swaton Road • Roman Road Market • Clinton Road • Lowell Street • London Hospital • Globe Road • Langdon Park • Wentworth Street • St Frideswide’s • Myrdle Street • Whitechapel Market • Balfron Tower • Whitechapel High Street

Each of these documents has two sections - the Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines.

Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Bethnal Green Gardens

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

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Introduction

Conservation Areas are parts of our local environment with special architectural or historic qualities. They are created by the Council, in consultation with the local community, to preserve and enhance the specific character of these areas.

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

To provide a detailed appraisal of the area’s architectural and historic character. To propose management guidelines on how this character should be preserved and enhanced in the context of any ongoing change.

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1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Bethnal Green Conservation Area was designated in July 1969. It encompasses a series of significant statutory listed civic buildings, such as the Town Hall and Bethnal Green Museum, set amongst the public gardens and the open space of Bethnal Green Gardens. St John’s Church (Grade I listed) is located at the heart of the area at the junction of Bethnal Green Road, Roman Road and Cambridge Heath Road. The origin of the name Bethnal Green was derived from the combination of the Anglo-Saxon words, “blithe”, meaning happy and “hale”, meaning retreat, as the area was described in its early days.

History

Historical maps of 1703 show Bethnal Green as almost entirely rural grounds, providing open country for market gardening. As industries expanded, an overflow of immigrants from Spitalfields and Shoreditch arrived in the area. A rural retreat with large houses, often grand residences in their own grounds, Bethnal Green was still considered one of the most deprived areas in London. The inhabitants of Bethnal Green were adversely affected by the decline of the silk trade in London, prompting the initiative to build more churches in Bethnal Green. This was lead by the Bishop of London, Charles Blomfield in 1828-56. He established the Metropolis Churches Fund (1836), with the resources and intention to build more churches in Tower Hamlets. Prior to 1743, Bethnal Green had no separate ecclesiastical existence, but was part of the parish of Stebenheathe, now known as Stepney. The scheme was successful in that 10 ecclesiastical buildings were constructed to complement St Matthew and St John (destroyed by fire in 1859 and rebuilt in 1861), however, from the 1880s, there was a decline in church attendance coinciding with the increase of Jewish immigrants.

In 1899, three Metropolitan Boroughs were created, with Bethnal Green becoming a Borough in its own right alongside Poplar and Stepney. Shortly thereafter, Bethnal Green built its own Town Hall in 1909, and that area around the gardens established itself as a civic district. Once known as a slum area, with no train station until the

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1870s, the Borough introduced public buildings including the Bethnal Green library and museum.

The area did however have its shortcomings in housing demands and coping with the increase in population over the years. The population peaked in 1901, when the majority of inhabitants were Jews engaged in the textiles and boot-making industries. Whilst Bethnal Green’s civic identity was assured, housing provision was not a priority for the Borough and it was the LCC (London County Council) who prompted large schemes of slum clearance in the area. Post-war development around Bethnal Green Gardens was unfocussed and rebuilding occurred in a piecemeal fashion.

Character

The Bethnal Green Gardens Conservation Area is characterised by the formal public buildings in their open space and individual garden settings. The collection of statutory listed buildings, namely the Bethnal Green Museum of Childhood, York Hall and the Town Hall are the highlights of this civic quarter. Varied in style and scale, these distinguished civic edifices are complemented by the greenery of the gardens, and are perceived as distinct from any residential character.

The Church of St John (1826-8) was designed by Sir John Soane. It is Grade I listed and forms the centrepiece of the Conservation Area. The exterior of the church is of stock brick and classical in detail.

Bethnal Green Museum was opened to the public in 1872, the Bethnal Green Museum was originally part of the Museum of Ornamental Art, South Kensington (1851), now known as the Victoria and Albert Museum. Its pre-fabricated iron structure was re- erected and encased within red brick and slate roof. The museum was renamed the Museum of Childhood in 1974.

The Public Library was originally constructed in 1896 and converted to a library from an asylum in 1922. The building is 2-storey brick constructed with a Neo-Georgian interior.

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The Town Hall (1909-10) was built to provide a civic presence for the newly-created Borough. It addresses both Cambridge Heath Road and Patriot Square and was built in early Renaissance style with its main frontage constructed in Portland stone.

York Hall (1929) was known as York Hall in the winter, but doubled as the main swimming pool in the summer. The large bath hall was covered, allowing the hall to stage organised events such as music, dancing and boxing. With its frontage to Old Ford Road, the public hall is Neo-Georgian built in red brick with Portland stone plinth and cornice.

There is one strip of late 18th century and early 19th century terrace housing along Paradise Row. This group of Grade II listed buildings are set behind a wedge of open land, which was once part of the original green. These terraces are characterised by plain brick fronts, recessed arched doorways and straight-headed windows. This street represents a significant group of residential buildings in a Conservation Area which is predominantly civic and green in character.

At present, there are some aspects of the area that do not contribute, and in some cases detract, from the character of the area.

The street environment along the main roads in the area, particularly at the major junctions, is overwhelmingly dominated by vehicles. This is particularly apparent at the staggered junction of Bethnal Green Road, Cambridge Heath Road and Roman Road, where the pedestrian environment is very poor. Pavements are narrow, and the street scene is cluttered by railings and posts. The junction of Cambridge Heath Road and Old Ford Road is also dominated by vehicular traffic.

Land Use

Despite the small strip of residential use at Paradise Row, the land use character of the Bethnal Green Gardens Conservation Area is predominantly public recreational grounds.

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Scale

The existing building scale of the area is varied but predominantly low-rise. The terraces along Paradise Row are a uniform 3 storeys. The landmark buildings are independent forms, and generally range between 2-5 storeys with high floor to ceiling heights. The overall scale depends on the individual building’s roof profile, features and function.

Open Space

Within the Conservation Area, Bethnal Green Gardens itself provides the public green space for local residents and is paramount to the character and setting of the Conservation Area. In 1678, fifteen and a half acres of what was formerly manorial common was purchased from the Manor of Stepney. In 1690, a condition of the trust deed prevented any new buildings to be constructed on the green. In 1868, this condition was honoured and four and a half acres of the land was sold by the Bethnal Green Poor’s Land Trustees to the Committee of the Bethnal Green Museum on the understanding that the surplus land would not be built upon, but rather be open to the public as public recreation grounds. Despite the museum opening in 1872, it was only until 1875 that the gardens (designed by the superintendent of Victoria Park) were opened. It maintained the name Bethnal Green Museum Gardens, although technically it was not the museum gardens, but belonged to the Metropolitan Board of Works and LCC.

In 1891, the remaining six and a half acres of land south of the Church of St John was sold to the LCC to avoid the sale and development of this open land, in favour of the land to be used as public recreation ground. The southern Bethnal Green Gardens were opened in 1895 and today are occupied by a large play area and tennis courts. The character of these recreational gardens to the south contrasts with the quieter and more formal gardens to the north.

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Views

Views towards significant landmarks include the approach to the Library and views to the spire of St. John. There are also long views along street axes, including views down Cambridge Heath Road and Roman Road, and high quality views into Paradise Row from Cambridge Heath Road. Other significant buildings such as the Church of the Assumption, York Hall, and the Town Hall, act as landmarks for secondary views.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

This Management Plan is being prepared in consultation with the community, to set out the Borough’s commitment to high quality management of conservation areas. Preserving and enhancing the Borough’s architectural and historic built heritage over the next decades is of vital importance in understanding the past and allowing it to inform our present and future.

Who is this conservation plan for?

This is an inclusive document which will engage with many different people and organisations. It will depend on the support of the community to achieve its objectives. The Plan is aimed primarily at the residents, businesses, developers and others living and working in the area. The Conservation Area belongs to its residents, as well as the whole community, and their priorities will be reflected in these documents after the consultation process.

The document has also been prepared to align conservation objectives within different parts of the council, and provide a single point of reference for the management of the area. It represents our shared commitment to conserve the special architectural and historic character, and to help manage sensitive new development and refurbishment where appropriate to successfully preserve and enhance the quality and character of the area.

Outline Guidance on Applications

Before carrying out any work in this area, you will need to apply for consent even for minor work such as replacing railings. These consents include planning, listed building and conservation area consent, as well as others for work such as felling trees.

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Bethnal Green Gardens is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Bethnal Green Gardens, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

A clear design statement explaining the reasons behind the various architectural, masterplanning or other design decisions. Contextual plans, sections and elevations of existing buildings Drawings, including construction details, produced at larger scale (eg. 1:50 or 1:20) clearly indicating the nature of the work proposed. Additional detail regarding materials and construction. Photos of the condition of existing building (including details where appropriate).

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

When alterations are proposed to listed buildings, complying with the building regulations can be particularly complex, and early consideration of building control issues can help identify potential problems early in the process.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Any new development should have regard to national, regional and local planning policy. At the national level, the Planning Act (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas Act) 1990 places a duty on Tower Hamlets to designate conservation areas in “areas of special architectural or historic interest”, and to formulate and publish proposals for the preservation and enhancement of its conservation areas. National policy for planning and the historic environment is set out in Planning Policy Guidance 15 (PPG15). At the regional level, policy 4B.1 of the London Spatial Development Strategy (or London Plan) states that ‘The Mayor will seek to ensure that developments … respect London’s built heritage.’ At the local level, the new Local Development Framework (LDF) of Tower Hamlets states that ‘the Council will protect and enhance the historic environment of the borough’. This is described in detail in policy CP49 of the Core Strategy of the LDF. St Johns Church Bethnal Green is identified as a local landmark, and views of it from publicly accessible places will be protected. All of the gardens north and south of Roman Road, and the gardens in front of Paradise Row, are designated as public open space. Two sites are designated development sites in the north of the area – the Town Hall and York Hall sites. In addition, two development sites lie adjacent, but just outside, the conservation area to the south-west. A portion of the strategic views consultation area covers the north part of Bethnal Green Gardens. The conservation area is also in between two district centres to the west and east.

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Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Grade I

Church of St John on Bethnal Green – see ‘Buildings at Risk’ below.

Grade II*

Bethnal Green Museum of Childhood 18 Victoria Park Gardens 21 Victoria Park Gardens

Grade II

Bethnal Green Library Bethnal Green Town Hall – see ‘Buildings at Risk’ below. 2-11 Paradise Row University House 15-19 (even) Old Ford Road The Assumption R C Church, Victoria Park Square 1-5 The Terrace, Old Ford Road

Nb. Other structures – walls and sculptures are also listed (to be added)

Highways and Transportation Issues

The quality of the streetscape, the surface materials, street furniture and other features can all be integral parts of the character of conservation areas. Any work carried out should respect this historic character. Anyone involved in development which impacts on public spaces should refer to the Council’s street design guide and English Heritage’s ‘Streets for All’ document. The ongoing cost of maintenance should also be considered carefully.

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There are two main roads which cut across the Conservation Area from west to east. These are Old Ford Road and Roman Road. Both handle a substantial amount of traffic, and require large signal-controlled junctions when they meet Cambridge Heath Road.

Works by statutory services (gas, electricity, water etc) have the potential to damage historic ground surfaces or ancient underground structures. Early consultation with the conservation department is encouraged for any works.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

The former Bethnal Green Town Hall represents a major opportunity for creative, sensitive and appropriate refurbishment and occupation.

Options for improving the pedestrian and cycle environment along Cambridge Heath Road should be investigated, and in particular around the two major road junctions which at present are dominated by highways infrastructure and do not do justice to the historic and architectural importance of the area. The highways also represent very significant barriers to movement, and contribute to an incoherent feel to the area.

The setting of the Church of St John is poor. It is surrounded by busy roads, narrow pavements, and the front elevation is obscured by trees in summer. Consideration should be given to ways in which this building might realize its full potential as a historic landmark, and strengthen the identity of this place.

The land use within the gardens is public recreational grounds. Any alternative land uses would not be considered, as the purpose of the open space is to preserve the setting of the Bethnal Green Museum and Church of St John.

Consideration should be given to extending the Conservation Area’s boundaries to include Swinburne House on the east side of the gardens, as this building plays an important role in defining the character of the garden’s edge.

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On Cambridge Heath Road, there is potential for improvement to the area of hard landscaping in front of 309-317 Cambridge Heath Road, which detracts from the quality of the streetscape at present. The petrol station at 319-329 is outside the Conservation Area boundary, but is mentioned here because this site is an essential part of the setting of the Grade II-listed Bethnal Green Museum, being opposite it, and options for enhancing this site should be investigated.

Parks and Open Spaces

As described in the Appraisal, the gardens vary in character from north to south. The gardens in the north are more formal, and defined by stronger urban edges to the west and east. South of the library, the garden opens up and becomes more expansive, accommodating more recreational uses – a sports play area, tennis courts and a playground. Management of these spaces should take account of the change in character from north to south, and in particular respect the setting of the listed buildings.

We will aim to achieve Green Heritage Site status for these gardens.

All trees in conservation areas are protected, and some trees are also covered by Tree Preservation Orders (TPO’s). Notice must be given to the authority before works are carried out to any tree in the Conservation Area, and some works require specific permission. More information can be found in the Council’s Guide to Trees, and on the Tower Hamlets website. Carrying out works to trees without the necessary approval can be a criminal offence, and the Council welcomes early requests for advice.

Equalities:

Valuing diversity is one of the Council’s core values, and we take pride in being one of the most culturally rich and diverse boroughs in the UK. This core value has informed the preparation of this document and will continue to inform changes to this document in the future.

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This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

a strong spirit of community and good race relations in Tower Hamlets. to get rid of prejudice, discrimination and victimisation within the communities we serve and our workforce to make sure that the borough’s communities and our workforce are not discriminated against or bullied for any reason, including reasons associated with their gender, age, ethnicity, disability, sexuality or religious belief.

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

The most effective way to secure the historic environment is to ensure that buildings can continue to contribute to the life of the local community, preferably funding their own maintenance and refurbishment. Commercial value can be generated directly from the building, through its use as a dwelling or office, or through its role in increasing the attractiveness of the area to tourists and visitors etc. However, it should be noted that economic reasons alone will not in themselves justify the demolition or alteration of a listed building or building in a Conservation Area.

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

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Publication Mechanism:

This consultation draft document is available on our website at: It is also available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores in the Borough. Please call if you would like to know where to find a copy, or if you have any other questions.

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

To keep a record of changes within the area, dated photographic surveys of street frontages and significant buildings and views will be made at 5 yearly intervals. Also, public meetings will be held every 5 years to maintain communications between all stakeholders and identify new opportunities and threats to the Conservation Area as they arise.

In addition, the Borough’s Annual Monitoring Report, prepared with the new LDF, will assess progress on the implementation of the whole Local Development Scheme, including policies relevant to conservation.

Enforcement Strategy:

Appropriate enforcement, with the support of the community, is essential to protect the area’s character. The Council will take prompt action against those who carry out unauthorised works to listed buildings, or substantial or complete demolition of buildings within a Conservation Area. Unauthorised work to a listed Building is a criminal offence and could result in a fine and/or imprisonment. Likewise, unauthorised substantial or complete demolition of a building within a Conservation Area is also illegal. It is therefore essential to obtain Conservation Area or Listed Building Consent before works begin.

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If listed buildings are not maintained in good repair, then the Council can step in to ensure that relevant repairs are carried out. In some circumstances, the Council itself may undertake essential repairs and recover the cost from the owner. The Council has powers of compulsory purchase, if necessary to protect Listed Buildings.

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

Bethnal Green Town Hall Cambridge Heath Road E2

Priority – E (E) Designation – Listed Grade II, Conservation Area Condition Good. Part Occupied. Ownership - Company

Summary

Town Hall built 1909-10 to the design of P Robinson and WA Jones in a florid Edwardian Baroque style. Substantial extension of 1937. Sold to commercial

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Adjacent to Registered Park and Garden.

St John on Bethnal Green Cambridge Heath Road E2 Priority – F (D) Designation – Listed Grade I, Conservation Area Condition Fair. Occupied. Ownership Religious Organisation.

Summary Church of 1827 by Sir John Soane. Occupied but in need of repair. Roof repairs completed with grant from English Heritage/Heritage Lottery Joint Churches Scheme. Works in progress. Adjacent to Registered Park and Garden.

Action Proposed to Secure:

To be written after public consultation.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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Wapping Pierhead

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

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Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

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1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Wapping Pierhead Conservation Area includes the former entrance to the London Docks. Together with St. Katharine’s Dock, The Isle of Dogs Docks (West India and East India Docks), the Royal Docks (Albert, Victoria and George V Docks) and the Surrey Docks, this forms part of London’s historic docklands.

The Conservation Area was originally designated in July 1969 around the historic pierhead, which is now in-filled to form private gardens. Georgian terraces were originally developed on either side of the dock entrance, but now look inwards to the community gardens. The Conservation Area was later extended in 1975 to include the 19th century warehouse buildings to the east, which informs the predominant character of the redeveloped Docklands area. Stretching between Wapping Pierhead to the west, through to the Wapping Underground Station, the Conservation Area includes a number of 18th century buildings, many of which are now statutorily listed.

In the 1980s, the London Docklands Development Corporation (LDDC) recognised that the conservation of the docklands heritage formed an essential part of its successful regeneration, a legacy now secured by LBTH. Designation has allowed a level of control over the area’s redevelopment. This ensures the sensitive recycling of existing warehouse structures and its appropriate integration into new high-quality development, retaining much of the area’s historic riverside character.

History

The London Docklands area lies predominantly within the flood plane of the lower Thames and its tributaries. Prior to the massive engineering projects of the 19th century, the areas largely comprised of riverside marshland and rough grazing. Historically, the Thames banks to the east of London, provided ideal conditions for shipping docks. By the 16th century, both sides of the river were lined with wharf buildings, serving the business needs of the merchants. Towards the end of the 18th

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Overcrowding, long delays and a lack of warehouse space led the West India merchants to push for improvements to its wharf facilities. The construction of the West India Docks brought with it a monopoly of trade, prompting competing merchants to form the London Dock Company. This secured an agreement whereby rice, wine, tobacco and brandy imports were to be unloaded at the new London Docks in Wapping for its first 21 years to cover its establishment costs. In the 1820s, many dock companies lost their import monopolies, resulting in an increased number of ships unloading their cargo into riverside wharves and warehouses. They took advantage of the 'free-water clause' (included in early Dock Acts), allowing barges to enter the dock without paying dock charges.

The western-most entrance to the London Docks in Wapping was located at Hermitage Loch. The Wapping Docks were ideally located to accommodate the needs of London’s import/export trade. With its rails extending to the dockside, the goods depot of the Great Eastern Railway was built between St. Katharine’s Dock and the London Dock.

The streets of East London and its docks suffered widespread destruction during World War II. The London County Council developed plans for post-war redevelopment and by 1959, a remarkable post-war recovery had taken place. At this point, London’s five dock groups handled a third of all of Britain’s sea-borne trade. This economic reformation eventually entered a terminal decline, spiralling wages and the change from commodity to container trade, ending in the relocation of the port operations to Tilbury, and the progressive closure of the entire London Dock system. The East India Docks was the first to close. In the mid-70s, The Greater London Council produced a Strategic Plan for the Docklands, identifying residential redevelopment areas.

Established in 1980 to manage the regeneration of the East End, the LDDC recognised the value of using conservation as a vehicle for change. Having achieved

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the majority of its targets in preserving the unique history and character of the Docklands, in 1998, the LDDC handed back responsibility for London’s Docklands to the local authorities.

Character

The Dock waterways and their connections with the river Thames provide the most significant unifying theme for the Docklands today. The river walls, dock entrances, jetties, piles and timber whalings survive as evidence of the unique history of London’s dockland industry, leaving the Borough with a distinctive architectural waterside legacy to protect.

Located in an area which encompasses several historic settlements, most of the buildings and physical features existing today relate to the 19th century development of the London Docks. The eastern section of the Wapping Pierhead Conservation Area is focused on the historic trade route, established in the 16th century and marked by Wapping High Street. The area is of considerable historic and townscape importance and its proximity to the Thames presents additional challenges. These are principally associated with pedestrian access to the riverfront, and the establishment of linkages from St Katherine’s Dock to east of the Borough.

Constructed from the beginning of the 19th century, the docks were equipped with large bonded warehouses, built following the Customs Consolidation Act of 1853. Standing as architectural features in their own right, it is the original features and historic character of the warehouses that makes the riverside area attractive and distinct.

Many of the Grade II listed warehouses have been successfully redeveloped as residential apartments, retaining their original, significant features. Oliver’s Wharf, unusual for its Victorian Gothic Revival style, was the first warehouse to be redeveloped in Wapping. The converted warehouses of Dundee (including the lattice plate bridges spanning Wapping High Street), Gun and Old Aberdeen Wharves have

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been preserved as distinctive reminders of the commercial activity in Victorian London’s Docklands.

Most of the early housing in the docklands dating back to the 18th and 19th century have been listed. One of the finest surviving residential developments falls within the Wapping Pierhead Conservation Area. The two terraces either side of the former entrance to the London Dock at Wapping Pierhead were designed by Daniel Alexander in 1811. This combines the traditional domestic Georgian style with the more austere warehouse aesthetic.

Scandrett Street, formerly known as Church Street, separating St. John of Wapping Church from its burial grounds, also contains some of the oldest surviving buildings in the area. The tower of St John’s Church, the adjacent 1760 school buildings and St Patrick’s Church to the rear, built in 1879 from the ‘penny a week contributions’ of its largely Irish congregation, are now listed buildings.

The Wapping Pierhead Conservation Area was designated in order to protect the unique visual and townscape qualities of an area of considerable historical interest. The variety of statutorily listed residential, ecclesiastical, commercial and industrial premises connected with the redundant London Docks, give an insight into the history of the development of East London. During the rapid change in the 1970s, the control of demolition and subsequent protection of the street pattern has allowed a degree of historical continuity in the built environment to be preserved.

Land Use

The construction of the enclosed London Docks displaced a large section of the parish of St John’s, leaving the remaining houses overcrowded, eventually deteriorating into slums. An area between the London Docks and Wapping High Street was cleared in 1926 for LCC flats, including some modest but handsome 18th and 19th century houses. The area fell largely into industrial use with the progressive closure of the Docks in the 1960s. The main land area is now residential, with small commercial interests in the area. This provides valuable street-level activity in a dramatically

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transformed area. The Town of Ramsgate and the Captain Kidd public houses provide a reminder of the former activity which characterised Wapping High Street. This was once the location of 36 pubs, catering for the sailors and dockers of the shipping industry.

Open Spaces

Wapping Pierhead gardens were developed in the 1960s following the filling-in of the Pierhead. Later declared a tree preservation order area, many of the mature plantings are subject to TPOs. Intersected by Wapping High Street, the riverside gardens provide visual relief from the enclosed corridor of warehouse buildings to the east.

Wapping Gardens, formerly known as Wapping Recreation Ground, were formed on the site of slum clearances in 1886, and were one of the first applications under provisions of the Artisan’s and Labourers’ Dwellings Improvement Act’ of 1875. Laid out by the Metropolitan Board of Works, the park was opened to the public in June 1891.

St. John’s Churchyard has had many of its gravestones conserved and relocated to the yard’s perimeter walls. The open character provides a ‘village green’ appearance to this section of the Conservation Area, enclosed by part of the London Dock Wall.

Historic landscaping materials and details contribute to the character of the Conservation Area and should be maintained and enhanced. A number of stone bollards, lamp standards, river steps and cobbled street surfaces are considered significant for their contribution to the character and ambience of one London’s finest 19th century riverside townscapes.

Scale

The scale of townscape along Wapping High Street is defined by the 4-5 storey warehouse buildings, juxtaposed against the smaller historic pubs and residential terraces, often with narrow steps through to the river. The piece-meal redevelopment

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of the area has resulted in a range of building heights, adding to the architectural texture and interest of the area.

Views

There is a short riverside walk which runs along the front of Capital Wharf, providing good views of Tower Bridge and across to Shad Thames. This leads onto Wapping High Street, forming the remainder of the Thames Walk in Wapping. Glimpses of the river are afforded through gaps between the warehouse buildings which line the river’s edge. The stairs historically leading to the river banks remain integral to the character and history of the area.

Constructed in 1756, the distinctive tower of St John’s Church was designed by Joel Johnson, intended to be seen through the river mists. The tower stands as a significant historic landmark in the Conservation Area, as it is the only element of the 18th century church building to have survived the Blitz. Existing views from the river’s south bank towards the tower should be maintained.

The views down Wapping High Street from outside Wapping Pierhead or from Gun Wharf are historically important.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

Before carrying out any work in this area, you will need to apply for consent even for minor work such as replacing railings. These consents include planning, listed building and Conservation Area consent, as well as others for work such as felling trees.

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Wapping Pierhead is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Wapping Pierhead, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Any new development should have regard to national, regional and local planning policy. At the national level, the Planning Act (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas Act) 1990 places a duty on Tower Hamlets to designate conservation areas in “areas of special architectural or historic interest”, and to formulate and publish proposals for the preservation and enhancement of its conservation areas. National policy for planning and the historic environment is set out in Planning Policy Guidance 15 (PPG15). At the regional level, policy 4B.1 of the London Spatial Development Strategy (or London Plan) states that ‘The Mayor will seek to ensure that developments … respect London’s built heritage.’ At the wider scale, the western fringe of the area next to the river falls within the strategic view from Greenwich Park to St Pauls Cathedral. This is within the strategic views consultation area. At the local level, the new Local Development Framework (LDF) of Tower Hamlets states that ‘the Council will protect and enhance the historic environment of the borough’. This is described in detail in policy CP49 of the Core Strategy of the LDF. Wapping Pierhead is an identified sub-area in the City Fringe Area Action Plan. This allocates the area south of Green Bank for mixed-use development and provides design principles for development in the area. These principles include creating development with active street frontages and encouraging the protection of fine-grained street patterns that promote connectivity. The riverfront itself is part of the Blue Ribbon network, and also a site of importance for nature conservation and archaeology. A triangular site at Knighton St, just outside the Conservation Area, has been identified as a residential development site.

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Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Grade II

1-4 Pierhead, Wapping High Street 5 Pierhead, Wapping High Street 6 Pierhead, Wapping High Street 7 Pierhead, Wapping High Street 8 Pierhead, Wapping High Street 9 Pierhead, Wapping High Street 10 Pierhead, Wapping High Street 11 Pierhead, Wapping High Street 12 Pierhead, Wapping High Street 13 Pierhead, Wapping High Street 14 Pierhead, Wapping High Street 45 Pierhead, Wapping High Street 62 Wapping High Street Olivers Wharf, 64 Wapping High Street 4 Bollards ((1 outside No 4 Wapping Pier Head, 3 on opposite side of Wapping High Street flanking the entrance to Hermitage Wall) Stone Bollards outside No 10 Wapping Pier Head. Wapping Old Stairs (Stairs and flagged passage from Wapping High Street) 2 Scandrett Street 4 Scandrett Street 6 Scandrett Street 8 Scandrett Street St Johns Court, 12 Scandrett Street St Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church, Green Bank (south side) Dundee Court, 73 Wapping High Street St Thomas Wharf, 78 Wapping High Street Execution Dock House, 80 Wapping High Street Old Dock Wall Aberdeen Wharf, 94 Wapping High Street Wapping Police Station, 98-102 Wapping High Street

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St Johns Wharf, 104-106 Wapping High Street 108 Wapping High Street 110 Wapping High Street 112 Wapping High Street Tower Buildings, Brewhouse Lane 118-120 Wapping High Street Gun Place, 86 Wapping Lane Gun Wharf, 130 Wapping High Street 105 Wapping Lane

Locally Listed Building

Wapping Sports Centre, 20 Tench Street

Highways and Transportation Issues

Wapping High Street dates from the 16th century, and used to service the trading industry along the river. Its character is described in detail in the Appraisal. New development should respect this character and enhance it where possible.

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Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

The continuing demand for residential accommodation, and the improved accessibility that will follow the extension to the East London Line, present ongoing opportunities for maintaining historic buildings in economic use.

A large number of historic buildings have already been successfully converted into residential accommodation. However, the unused buildings on Reardon Path have potential for sensitive redevelopment.

Some railings around trees and benches are in need of maintenance and repair. Also, improvements could be made to the street furniture – in particular lighting and signage. Consideration should be given to fixing lighting to buildings where appropriate to avoid unnecessary posts in the street.

The listed terraces and buildings of the Pierhead itself form an exceptional group, and are arguably the finest example of historic residential terraced housing in the Borough. In order to protect the quality of this group, residents should be consulted on whether an Article 4 direction should be used to protect against permitted developments which might harm the character of this space.

Parks and Open Spaces

The open spaces in the Conservation Area add to the community and character of the area – particularly the children’s play area in Wapping Gardens and the riverside view in Waterside gardens.

New gardens were created by the infill of the Pierhead itself. Although these are private gardens, they are part of an exceptional piece of townscape which everyone benefits from when walking past.

Wapping Pierhead Conservation Area Page 15 of 19 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines permission. More information can be found in the Council’s Guide to Trees, and on the Tower Hamlets website. Carrying out works to trees without the necessary approval can be a criminal offence, and the Council welcomes early requests for advice.

The Conservation Area boundary extends to the centre of the Thames, and development should have regard to the quality and composition of long views of the area from the river.

Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

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Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

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Enforcement Strategy:

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

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Listed Buildings at Risk:

At this time we are not aware of any listed buildings at risk in the Conservation Area.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

St George’s Town Hall

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

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Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

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1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The St George’s Town Hall Conservation Area was designated in July 1969. It protects the setting of Hawksmoor’s St George-in-the-East, one of the 18th century churches constructed under the New Churches Act to service the burgeoning communities of the East End. Located in the heart of the Conservation Area, the church is surrounded by historic properties of note, including the late 18th century Rectory and St George’s Town Hall (1860). Memorials located in the church grounds include the Raine family memorial (founders of Raine’s Foundation School, 1719), and the First World War memorial, both Grade-II listed.

History

The first documentary reference to the Shadwell area dates back to 1223 (a corruption of ‘St Chads Well’). Between the 16th & 18th centuries, a rise in the population of the many riverside communities, of which Shadwell is one, reflected a growth in the shipping and ship building industries, located along the banks of the Thames, east of the City. Tiny settlements grew into distinctive villages supporting the maritime trade, and by the time Shadwell became a separate parish in 1669, the local population had grown to about 8000.

During the 17th century, churches and chapels-of-ease were being constructed in response to London’s eastward spread, and in the 18th century a commission was established to implement the construction of fifty new Anglican churches in areas of population growth. The New Churches Act was passed by Parliament in 1711 and enabled money to be raised for the construction of the churches from coal tax. Of the 50 churches planned, only 12 were built to designs by architects associated with the Office of Works, including St George-in-the-East (Wapping) and St Anne (Limehouse). These also represent two of the three Borough churches designed by architect Nicholas Hawksmoor, a pupil of Sir Christopher Wren, (the third being Christchurch, Spitalfields).

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Considered the most original of Hawksmoor’s East-End churches, St George-in-the- East, constructed between 1714-26, was dedicated in 1729 to serve Wapping- Stepney and the area to its north. The tower was added between 1720-3, plasterwork between 1723-4 and the pews and carving in 1729. At the time of its construction, the surrounding area was still largely rural, with open fields to the north of the churchyard (itself occupying an area known as the Gun Field), otherwise enclosed by buildings lining the principal roads. The 18th century churchyard was lined with rows of trees along the north, south and eastern boundaries, and in 1862, when further land had been added, a new layout included a Rector’s Walk and Lime Avenue.

By the beginning of the 19th century, the adjacent fields and vacant land, (freed by earlier slum clearance) had been re-colonised, and a rope-making factory established to the north-east. The church and its yard were land-locked by the surrounding development, and its main entrance was through a narrow gap in the streetscape off Cannon Street Road. The church burial ground was extended in 1829 with the purchase of the rope walk, and in 1875 was amalgamated with the graveyard of St George’s Methodist Church (Cable Street), forming St George’s Gardens in 1886. The new public gardens had entrances off Radcliffe Street, Cannon Street Road and Cable Street. The former parish mortuary (1880) opened as the ‘Metropolitan Borough of Stepney Nature Study Museum’ in 1904, providing ‘hands-on’ nature education for East End schoolchildren until it was closed in 1939.

The church and many of its surrounding buildings were gutted by fire in the 1941 bombings, the church lying derelict until the 1960s reconstruction by Ansell & Bailey, a contemporary insertion within the original (restored) shell.

Character

Until the Blitz in 1940, the south side of St George-in-the-East church was always screened by housing along The Highway. At the time of construction, Hawksmoor originally tried to persuade the Commissioners to demolish and replace the houses with more appropriate precinct buildings. The former Rectory (1726-9), at the north- western corner of the church, represents the only part of Hawksmoor’s Precinct Plan

St Georges Town Hall Page 5 of 18 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines that was achieved. Its original street address has been lost to recent residential development. The eventual demolition of The Highway housing has provided a new formal entrance and has exposed the southern façade of the church and grounds.

St George-in-the-East has formed a landmark in this part of the Borough since its construction, and its prominence has been secured with the expansion of the gardens to the south. The church, rectory and associated walls, gates, railings and memorials form a significant group within the former churchyard, and are the focus of the Conservation Area. The urban character is further defined by the surrounding historic buildings lining the streets on the area’s perimeter. The Cannon Street Road and Cable Street buildings are of value for their group setting and their role in the historic presentation of the church.. Their retention and appropriate presentation is therefore important to the preservation of the areas historic significance.

Buildings of note include No.44 Cable Street (circa 1810), listed for its largely intact interior and original shopfront, forming part of an attractive row. The Dolphin Public House (at the corner of Cable Street and Cannon Street Road), the former Britannia Public House (on the corner of Library Place and Cable Street) and the listed Vestry Hall & gated entrance. The terrace at No.192-224 completes a well defined group along the southern edge of Cable Street.

The Conservation Area is also located in an Area of Archaeological Importance or Potential. Evidence of Roman roadside settlement has been established in two areas of the Borough, one in the vicinity of Old Ford Road in Bow, and the other along The Highway in Shadwell, where a road followed the river bluff from a location just north of the Tower to the Roman outport of Ratcliffe. Policies associated with Archaeology and Ancient Monuments apply to development proposed in the Conservation Area and its surrounds.

Land Use

The proposed redevelopment of Mulberry College demonstrates a recent history of changing use in the area, from commercial and public to residential. Similar previous

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approvals, granted for the redevelopment of public houses and commercial shopfronts, has compromised street level activity, urban variety and historic character. Further erosion of the existing mix of uses will detrimentally effect the character of the Conservation Area and should be avoided.

Open Space

The churchyard of St. George-in-the-East was laid-out as a public garden in 1886 and re-landscaped by the LDDC in 1996. Headstones were relocated to the garden perimeter in the 1870s and now form a low barrier between the northern (Cable Street) approach and churchyard. The boundary wall, opened out to reveal the northern entrance, is listed, as are the original gate piers framing the principal entrance off Cannon Street Road. The garden’s Cable Street access is reached via a paved forecourt to the western flank wall of St George’s Town Hall, now decorated with a mural. It depicts the famous battle of Cable Street (1936), when East End residents fought police to stop Mosely’s fascists marching through their neighbourhood. A second entrance from Cable Street is framed by the listed gate of St George’s Town Hall.

The Conservation Area is separated from the neighbouring areas by the heavily trafficked Highway to the south and the historic City-Blackwall rail viaduct to the north. The boundaries are clearly defined by roads on three sides and the eastern churchyard wall. The churchyard and former ‘Old Nature Study Museum’ have faired poorly over the years, and a planned program of landscape improvement works seek to restore the gardens to an attractive external amenity space for the local community.

Scale

The scale of the Conservation Area is largely defined by the buildings lining Cannon Street Road and Cable Street, providing an appropriately recessive foil to the tower of St George-in-the-East, rising above the church, itself perched on high ground along the river’s bluff.

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Views

Hidden from view by perimeter development, the lantern tower of St George-in-the- East has provided a historic focal point for the parish and a prominent feature on the Borough’s skyline. Visual permeability through the area has been improved by the demolition of buildings lining The Highway. Although altering the historic presentation and, to a certain extent, the address of the church, the exposure has also increased passive surveillance and public use of the gardens.

Preservation of principal views towards the tower from surrounding sites, and glimpses of the church gardens through breaks in the perimeter edge, will be a consideration in the assessment of new development proposals, which may effect the historic presentation and setting of the church and grounds.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of St Georges Town Hall is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In St Georges Town Hall, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Ecclesiastical Grade A (I)

Church of St George-in-the-East, Cannon Street Road

Grade II

St George’s Rectory, 16 Cannon Street Road

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44 Cannon Street Road 192-224 Cable Street 230 Cable Street St George’s Town Hall, 236 Cable Street Gate piers to St George in the East Gardens, Cable Street Gate piers to church drive at Church of St George in the East, Cannon Street Road Pier, Gates, Railed Wall to north side of Church of St George in the East, Cannon Street Road St George’s Gardens Raine Memorial, Cannon Street Road St George’s Gardens War Memorial, Cannon Street Road St George’s Gardens Garden Wall, Cannon Street Road Churchyard and Rectory Wall at Church of St George in the East, Cannon Street Road

Locally Listed Building

Brittania Public House, 232 Cable Street 26-42 Cannon Street Road 46-52 Cannon Street Road 56 Cannon Street Road

Highways and Transportation Issues

The Highway is by far the busiest traffic route adjacent to this Conservation Area. It is an important route from the Tower of London eastwards to Docklands via the Limehouse Link tunnel, and is designated as a strategic route. As with the nearby St Pauls Shadwell Conservation area, options could be investigated for calming the speed of this road in deference to the architectural importance of the church, and to lessen the sense of the road being a barrier between St Georges and Wapping to the south.

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Anyone involved in development which impacts on public spaces should refer to the Council’s street design guide and English Heritage’s ‘Streets for All’ document. The ongoing cost of maintenance should also be considered carefully.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

The Mortuary Chapel in the curtilage of the church is in desperate need of repairs and refurbishment, and is included in the ‘Buildings at Risk’ section below.

Minor repairs and refurbishment are needed to several parts of the churchyard, including the paving. Other minor improvements would help to lift the area, for example replacing the metal grills over the gateposts on Cable St just east of the Town Hall.

There is also potential for limited-scale sensitive infill development adjacent to Library Place at the northern entrance to the church yard, providing that such development did not harm the tranquil character of the churchyard.

South of the Highway, outside the Conservation Area, is the large Tobacco Dock development site identified in the City Fringe Area Action Plan. The preferred use for this site is Hotel, Retail, Leisure, Residential and public open space. Any development should respect the importance of the Church and enhance its setting.

The Swimming Baths on the Highway present a dead frontage to the road, and ways of improving the pedestrian environment should be investigated.

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Parks and Open Spaces

The management of parks and open spaces are particularly important to preserving the character of this area. When the churchyard was first converted into a public garden (in 1875-6), it was considered very important that the sacred character of the grounds was preserved, and this principle should be observed in all future management and maintenance of the garden. We will aim to achieve Green Heritage Site status for these gardens.

To the west of the church, just outside the Conservation Area, is a large unused green space. This is fenced off from the residential development to the west, and from the road to the east. This is potential for this space to be restored as a usable public park, possibly linked to a re-surfacing of Cannon Street Road near the church entrance to calm traffic speeds at this point.

Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

a strong spirit of community and good race relations in Tower Hamlets. to get rid of prejudice, discrimination and victimisation within the communities we serve and our workforce

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to make sure that the borough’s communities and our workforce are not discriminated against or bullied for any reason, including reasons associated with their gender, age, ethnicity, disability, sexuality or religious belief.

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

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The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

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Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

Mortuary chapel, churchyard of St George in the East Cannon Street Road E1 Priority A (A) Designation Conservation Area Condition Very Bad. Vacant Ownership Local Authority

Summary c1870 brick and tile mortuary chapel. In curtilage of Grade I listed church. Adapted in 1930s as a nature study centre but abandoned during World War II. Now derelict. The Spitalfields Trust proposes to acquire the building and repair it.

Action Proposed to Secure:

To be written after public consultation.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

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Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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Elder Street

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

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Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

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1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Elder Street Conservation Area was designated in July 1969 and lies just outside London’s historic walls to the north-east. It is defined on its north-eastern side by the line of Commercial Street, to its west by Norton Folgate and to it south by Spital Square and Folgate Street.

History

Originally an area of marshy ground outside the north-east corner of the ancient City of London, this Conservation Area contains the site of the Priory of St Mary Spital, which was established in this area in 1247. The ‘Hospital of the Blessed Virgin Mary without Bishopsgate’ provided care for the poor until it was closed by the dissolution of the monasteries in 1534-8, and ‘Spitalfields’ took its name from the fields next to the Hospital.

The ‘Spittle House’, possibly the gateway to the Priory, was reported to still exist in 1714-5. Several Priory buildings may have been converted into residential use, and fragments of the medieval structure still exist underground in the area.

Parts of the area were developed as a residential area in the 17th century, but the Georgian houses that survive today were built after 1716. The majority of this Conservation Area lies within the St. John and Tillard Estate, and its development is described in detail by the Survey of London. Elder Street was begun around 1722 as a row of houses, which were originally only one room deep, and these houses now form the core of the Conservation Area.

Spital Square was created as an upmarket development of houses, which were occupied by owners of the silk weaving and trading industries. Spitalfields Market to the south had its origins in 1638, when it was established by Charles II.

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In the 19th century, the population of Spitalfields grew to 100,000, of whom half were entirely dependent on the silk industry. Overcrowding was a problem, and this relatively inaccessible area of narrow passages and lanes gained a reputation as a lawless and disreputable district.

Opening up this area was one of the reasons for building Commercial Street, as well as its more obvious benefits of improving links to the Docks and improving sanitation in the area. The road was built in 1849-1857 along the north-eastern edge of the present Conservation Area, and many small buildings, alleyways and courtyards were demolished to make way for it.

Redevelopment along the line of the new street included a variety of commercial buildings. The diagonal cut of Commercial Street across the previous street grid created several triangular corner sites, which were normally used for entrances to the new buildings redeveloped along the road. On the NW corner of Folgate St and Commercial Street is the Peabody Buildings, the first of the Peabody Trust’s model housing, built 1863-4 in a Gothic revival style, and known as ‘The Cloisters’.

For most of its history, Spital Square was protected from noisy through-traffic by narrow entrances and bollards. This changed in 1917, when the eastern entrance was opened to market traffic, and again in 1929, when the historic narrow entrance from Bishopsgate was widened to from 19 feet to 48 feet.

In the 1920s and 30s, Spitalfields Market grew and consumed many of the historic houses on the eastern stretch of Spital Square. The houses on the north side of the western arm and the west side of the northern arm were demolished in the early 1930s to be replaced with a warehouse for the Cooperative Wholesale Society Fruit Warehouse.

The demolition of many houses continued, until the 1970s when determined efforts by the Spitalfields Historic Buildings Trust succeeded in increasing awareness of the historic and architectural value of the surviving 18th century buildings and townscape. In recent years, a number of major office developments have been completed or are

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under construction, particularly just outside the Conservation Area to the south and west.

Character

Elder Street and Folgate Street Elder Street and Folgate Street, at the centre of the Conservation Area, are two of the most complete of the surviving 18th century developments and contain many original 3 storey brick houses. Their value comes from the consistent proportions of the street, the richness of the brick textures, the refinement of the architectural details, the harmonious relationship of the buildings and the prevailing domestic residential character.

The surviving gardens and trees in the back gardens of buildings on Elder Street are an important part of the area’s residential heritage and should be retained.

Spital Square Spital Square has lost much of its original character, although this can still be read in the quality of surviving historic buildings. The southern extension of Spital Square has been renamed Bishops Square, and forms part of the new Spitalfields office development.

37 Spital Square is the only surviving 18th century house - a 3-storey brick structure which is now the headquarters for the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings. St Botolph’s Hall was built in 1891 and used by the Central Foundation School for Girls. Its richly detailed red brick and terracotta façade is a distinctive landmark in an environment increasingly overwhelmed by the featureless glazed facades of recent office developments.

North of Folgate Street Blossom Street is an important surviving piece of 19th century townscape. On the western edge of this street are a series of high quality 4 storey brick warehouses built

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from 1886 onwards. They were occupied by Nicholls and Clarkes, Builder’s Merchants until very recently.

This industrial character continues along parts of Fleur de Lis Street, although there are also many vacant sites in the area. Stone setts make a positive contribution to the character of these streets.

There are many vacant or underdeveloped sites, particularly in the north of this Conservation Area, which detract from the quality of the townscape.

Norton Folgate There is a mixed frontage to Norton Folgate which includes modern office blocks, Georgian residential development, later 19th century mixed-use commercial buildings and a 1930s showroom frontage at the north-west corner of the Conservation Area.

Although many of these buildings do not have exceptional intrinsic value, together they form a valuable reminder of the area’s residential and commercial history. They front on to an ancient road where evidence of the area’s past is increasingly rare.

The site, known as the ‘Nicholls and Clarke’ site, by whom it was formerly occupied, represents a glimpse of the interwoven complexity often found in old London, and may include walls and other structures from the former Hospital Priory.

Land Use

The area retains its quiet, residential character, although there are many offices interspersed between the houses and flats. Small-scale services such as shops, restaurants and pubs also occupy the ground floors of some buildings.

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Scale

The area is predominantly 3-4 storeys high with 3-storey Georgian houses in the core of the area. The buildings along Commercial Street are more substantial 5-6 storey buildings, to address the larger scale of the road.

The historic character of the area has been affected by large scale office development to the south, of 12 storeys or more, and by the 35-storey Broadgate Tower under construction to the west.

The narrow width of Fleur de Lis Street at its western end is a fragment of the medieval network of lanes which existed prior to the 18th and 19th century redevelopments.

Open Space

Most of the public realm in this area takes the form of streets, defined by buildings with no setback. Spital Square is not a traditional London residential square, but a widened street which retains its historic proportions. It is the only historic open space in the Conservation Area.

Views

The most significant views are those along the historic streets of Elder Street, Folgate Street, Blossom Street, Fleur-de-Lis Street, and towards the surviving historic buildings on Spital Square. The diagonal geometry of Commercial Street allows each corner of a building to act as a focus to views along the street, as demonstrated for example by the entrance to the Peabody buildings.

The view north from the south end of Blossom Street gives a dramatic and accurate glimpse of mid 19th century commercial London, including the warehouses, loading gateways, gas street lights, bollards and road setts. This includes the 1928 warehouse (similar to the earlier) on the east side of the north end of Blossom Street.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is

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preserved or enhanced. The character of Elder Street is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Elder Street, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Any new development should have regard to national, regional and local planning policy. At the national level, the Planning Act (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas Act) 1990 places a duty on Tower Hamlets to designate conservation areas in “areas of special architectural or historic interest”, and to formulate and publish proposals for the preservation and enhancement of its conservation areas. National policy for planning and the historic environment is set out in Planning Policy Guidance 15 (PPG15). At the regional level, policy 4B.1 of the London Spatial Development Strategy (or London Plan) states that ‘The Mayor will seek to ensure that developments … respect London’s built heritage.’ At the local level, the new Local Development Framework (LDF) of Tower Hamlets states that ‘the Council will protect and enhance the historic environment of the borough’. This is described in detail in policy CP49 of the Core Strategy of the LDF. The area lies inside the area covered by the City Fringe Area Action Plan, and within the ‘Aldgate and Spitalfields Market’ Sub-Area. Large parts of the area are identified as an area of archaeological importance. The area includes a nationally registered Ancient Monument, the Priory of St Mary Spital. Policy CON4 of the LDF states ‘The Council will require nationally important remains to be preserved permanently in situ, subject to consultation with English Heritage. All development proposals affecting sites of known archaeological interest, or located in Archaeological Priority Areas, will be required to submit an archaeological assessment or, if necessary, a field evaluation as part of the planning application. The Council will require any investigations to be carried out in accordance with the British Archaeologists and Developers Liaison Code of Practice. The London Cycle Network plus runs along the north-eastern and southern edges of the Conservation Area.

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Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Grade II

37 Spital Square Area railings at 37 Spital Square Street Lamp at Spital Square The Central Foundation School for Girls, Spital Square Forecourt Wall and Gate Piers at The Central Foundation School for Girls Folgate Street Road Surface (from the junction with Norton Folgate to the east side of the junction with Elder Street) 8 Folgate Street 10 Folgate Street 12 Folgate Street 14 Folgate Street 16 Folgate Street 18 Folgate Street 17 Folgate Street 19 Folgate Street 21 Folgate Street 27 Folgate Street 36 Elder Street Elder Street Road surface (from the junction with Folgate Street, to the north side of the junction with Fleur de Lis Street) 34 Elder Street 32 Elder Street Railings at Nos 32 and 34 Elder Street 30 Elder Street 28 Elder Street 24 Elder Street

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Fleur De Lys Street Road surface (from the junction with Commercial Road to the west side of the junction with Elder Street and Blossom Street) 1 – 3 Elder Street 5 Elder Street 7 Elder Street 9 – 13 Elder Street Railings at Nos 8 and 11 Elder Street 15 Elder Street 17 Elder Street 19 Elder Street 21 Elder Street 23 Elder Street Street lamp affixed to wall of 26 Elder Street 159 Commercial Street 151 Commercial Street 135-153 Commercial Street

Locally Listed Building

5-7 Folgate Street 11 Folgate Street 11a Folgate Street 4 Elder Street 6 Elder Street 8 Elder Street

Highways and Transportation Issues

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English Heritage’s ‘Streets for All’ document. The ongoing cost of maintenance should also be considered carefully.

All streets in this area are particularly important historic streetscapes, and any highways works should seek to preserve or enhance their character.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

There are many vacant or under-used sites in the northern part of this Conservation Area, which would benefit from sensitive re-development. Historic structures and buildings should be retained, and new development should respect the urban form, scale and block structure. Main entrances should be provided to the street, and servicing/parking arrangements should be discreet and appropriate to the townscape.

The Blossom Street warehouses were vacated by Nicholls and Clarke’s in the last few years, and there are proposals to bring these back into use as part of a mixed-use residential and office development. Assuming that intervention to historic construction is kept to a minimum, the creative re-use of these buildings is welcomed.

Parks and Open Spaces

The historic space of Spital Square was a quiet, secluded residential open space for many decades. Its character has now changed significantly, although there is potential to improve the quality of the wider, western part of this street.

There are no parks in the area.

All trees in conservation areas are protected, and some trees are also covered by Tree Preservation Orders (TPO’s). Notice must be given to the authority before works

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are carried out to any tree in the Conservation Area, and some works require specific permission. More information can be found in the Council’s Guide to Trees, and on the Tower Hamlets website. Carrying out works to trees without the necessary approval can be a criminal offence, and the Council welcomes early requests for advice.

Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

The most effective way to secure the historic environment is to ensure that buildings can continue to contribute to the life of the local community, preferably funding their

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own maintenance and refurbishment. Commercial value can be generated directly from the building, through its use as a dwelling or office, or through its role in increasing the attractiveness of the area to tourists and visitors etc. However, it should be noted that economic reasons alone will not in themselves justify the demolition or alteration of a listed building or building in a Conservation Area.

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

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Enforcement Strategy:

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volume 27: Spitalfields and Mile End New Town. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner. The Saving of Spitalfields. Girouard, Cruickshank and Samuel (the Spitalfields Historic Buildings Trust).

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

St Botolph’s Hall (Central Foundation School for Girls)

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Spital Square E1

Priority – C Designation – Listed Grade II Condition – Fair. Vacant. Ownership – Company

Summary Former school built in 1890 in Flemish Renaissance style; remainder of school demolished. Proposals under discussion for restaurant use with new adjacent development.

Action Proposed to Secure:

To be written after public consultation.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

No 2 Elder Street.

There are proposals for major development in the block defined by Norton Folgate, Folgate Street, Blossom Street and Fleur de Lis Street, which is the site of a scheduled Ancient Monument (the Priory of St Mary Spital, founded in 1247). Any proposals would need to respect underground fabric, as well as the scale and urban grain of the Conservation Area. Proposals have included the demolition of the 1920s Art Deco shopfront.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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Brick Lane and Fournier Street

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

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Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

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1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Brick Lane and Fournier Street Conservation Area was designated in July 1969 as ‘Fournier Street’. It was extended in 1978 and again in 1998, when its name was changed to reflect Brick Lane’s contribution to the character of the area. It is one of the largest in Tower Hamlets, running along Brick Lane from Bethnal Green Road in the north down to Whitechapel in the south.

It contains some of the most architecturally and historically significant buildings and places in the Borough, including Christ Church Spitalfields, designed by Nicholas Hawksmoor, and the exceptional group of 18th century houses around Fournier Street. Brick Lane is home to a diverse mix of fashion, art, entertainment, retail and start-up businesses. The richness and complexity of the area’s character today is due to many factors, not least the overlapping cultural legacy of three successive groups of immigrants, each of which has made a unique contribution to the area. The quality of the townscape today is also due to a committed local community which has acted to protect and restore historic buildings at risk.

History

According to the Survey of London, Brick Lane has existed since the 1550s. It was originally a field path in open countryside well outside the walls of the City of London, and to the east of the boundary of the Priory of St Mary Spital which gave Spitalfields its name. Brick Lane took its name from brick manufacturing from clay pits above Bethnal Green Road, although other activities, such as farming and archery practice, also took place in the area.

Significant urban development in the area did not begin until the second half of the 17th century, when many of the streets connecting Brick Lane to the city to the west were laid out. Most of the area to the west of Brick Lane was owned by the Wheler family, and was sold or leased in several pieces during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Wheler Street was named after this family.

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At this time, a significant community of Huguenot refugees arrived from France, many of whom brought silk-weaving skills from Nantes, Lyons and other cities in France. Many settled in Spitalfields, and established it as a centre of the London silk weaving industry.

The 1711 Churches Act authorized a tax on coal to fund the building of 50 new churches in London. Three of these churches in Tower Hamlets were designed by Nicholas Hawksmoor, and Christ Church Spitalfields was the first. The foundations were laid in 1714, and construction of the walls took place over the following years, although the upper stages of the tower and spire were not built until the late 1720s, and the church was finally consecrated on 5 July 1729.

The land around present-day Fournier Street, Wilkes Street and Princelet Street was developed by Charles Wood and Simon Michell between 1718 and 1728. The houses were designed to a higher standard than previous residential developments in the area and, although intended as domestic houses, many were occupied or partially occupied by industry. Silk-weaving occupied the uppermost floors for the best light for the looms – hence the development of the highly glazed lofts in these houses.

In Brick Lane itself, street widening began in 1778 to its present width of between 35 and 38 ft. The Brick Lane Market developed during the 18th century for farmers selling their livestock and produce outside the city boundary. Today the market offers a wide range of fruit and vegetables, clothes and household goods, and also the survivors of the 19th and 20th century ‘totters’, offering old and historic domestic and business artefacts.

The brewing industry was active in the area from around 1666, and a brewery was purchased by Joseph Truman in 1679. This was expanded in the 18th century, when the Director’s House on Brick Lane was enlarged to its present form. Expansion continued throughout the 19th century, when the brewery of Truman, Hanbury, Buxton & Co. became one of the largest in London.

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Although there had been a small Jewish community in the East End for some time, a large number of Jews from Eastern Europe and Russia moved to Spitalfields in the 19th century and founded a thriving community. Many new schools, cultural activities and businesses were created, including the Jews Free School and the Jewish Chronicle newspaper (the oldest Jewish English language weekly in the world). In 1898 the Methodist Church was converted into a Synagogue. This building was constructed as a Huguenot Chapel in 1743-4, and would later be converted into a mosque in the 1970s.

The 19th century also saw major transport infrastructure works in the area. Commercial Street was built between 1843 and 1857, partly to relieve traffic congestion around Aldgate and Leadenhall Street, and to provide a better link to the Docks from North London. At the northern end of the Conservation Area, the railway and Bishopsgate passenger rail terminus for the Eastern Counties Railway Company, and the Northern and Eastern Railway Company, was built in 1839-42. In connection with this development, Braithewaite’s famous and beautiful railway viaduct, the third oldest in the world, was built in 1838. Liverpool Street Station was opened in 1875, allowing the Bishopsgate site to be redeveloped as a Goods Yard.

By the middle of the 20th century, the Jewish community was dispersing to the suburbs of London, Golders Green, Hampstead Garden Suburb and further afield. A new immigrant community from Bangladesh was beginning to establish itself, and grew from the 1970s onwards.

Today, Brick Lane or Banglatown is the heart of London’s Bangladeshi Community, and is home to a wide range of local small businesses, shops, cultural enterprises and of course the famous variety of restaurants. Annual festivals attract large numbers of visitors from across London and the region, and this community has played a vital role in the regeneration of the area over recent decades.

Industrial development at the Truman’s Brewery site continued as late as the early 1970s, before it finally closed in 1988. From 1991 onwards, it has been redeveloped within its existing form as a major centre for the arts and creative industries, start-up

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spaces for entrepreneurs, nightclubs and most recently, a street of coffee lounges (Dray Walk).

In 2006, Brick Lane was one of three streets in the UK short-listed by the Academy of Urbanism for the ‘Great Street’ award.

Character

The architectural and urban character varies considerably across the Conservation Area and has evolved over a long period of time.

The narrow and intimate proportions of the old 17th century network of streets, lanes and courtyards can still be perceived in the Corbet Place, Calvin Street, Seven Stars Yard, Pecky Yard and Puma Court. A number of homes also have alleys paving to the garden behind, and many have 19th century workshops in the rear of the garden.

Christ Church Spitalfields and the Fournier Street area The early 18th century streets of Fournier Street, Wilkes Street, Princelet Street and Hanbury Street were laid out on a grid west of Brick Lane.

These streets are characterized by the exceptionally consistent quality of the original 18th century houses – the subtle variations of brick colouring, the original details of doors, windows, hoods and ironwork, and the standard of maintenance and repair. Individually, the houses contain features of high quality and historic interest, including panelling, mouldings and staircase balustrading, and as a group they form a valuable 18th century domestic townscape remarkably unchanged by modernisation or conversion.

There are a few exceptions to the general residential character. For example, 19 Princelet Street is an example of how a rich mix of different uses developed in the area. It was built around 1718 as a terraced house, and accommodated small scale industrial uses during the silk weaving period. A rear extension was built in 1869-70, which later became a Synagogue, and it has been opened as a museum of

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immigration. Others have significant mid-19th century workshops and associated buildings in their gardens.

The church itself dominates its surroundings by the scale and monumentality of its architecture and the quality of its neo-classical white stone facades. The powerful, sculptural, unusual and iconic west façade forms the centrepiece of the view east along Brushfield Street, and is a major landmark to through traffic on Commercial Street, and is glimpsed from many parts of the Conservation Area and beyond.

The church has historic significance as a grand architectural gesture to re-establish the Church of England in an area which has traditionally been the home of many other faiths. Today it is acknowledged as one of the most significant Baroque churches in Europe.

Brick Lane Brick Lane itself is a long, gently winding street running from north to south. There are a few defining landmarks (see below) – the corner building of 125 Brick Lane in the northern section, the giant chimney, the crossover bridge, and the setted and railed courtyard to the Brewery in the central section, and the mosque and Gothic revival school behind railings in the southern section.

Its character is created by a general consistency of height and architecture, especially amongst the terraces, and a rich, fine-grain mix of land uses. In the southern part of Brick Lane, the buildings are predominantly 3 storeys, creating a consistent roof line and street enclosure. In the central section, around the Brewery and Goodsyard, and in the northern section, the buildings are generally 3-4 storeys.

Although the street’s origin is medieval, many sites along the street were redeveloped in the 18th and 19th century. These are mainly shops, cafes, pubs or restaurants at ground level, and offices or residential use above. The buildings are often arranged in terraces. The shopfronts vary in style and material – a mixture of timber-framed shopfronts and more recent materials. 157 Brick Lane is a typical building on this street – a former pub, the green tiles give the frontage individuality while still

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contributing to a consistent character along the street. The richness comes from the variety of individual terraces, of different shades of brick, the details of brick arches, lintels, window surrounds and plasterwork.

There are a few landmarks along Brick Lane – at the junction with Fournier Street is the Jamme Masjid (Great Mosque), previously a Synagogue and Protestant church. This is visible from both directions along Brick Lane, and its pedimented east façade with Venetian window forms a landmark at the heart of the street. This building has additional significance for the street as its changing uses reflect the different communities who have lived in the area over the previous few hundred years.

Brick Lane passes through the Truman’s Brewery complex, introduced from the south by the Crossover bridge. The Director’s House and the other 18th century buildings on the east side of the road have a simple, restrained classical character, and are larger in scale than the shopfronts elsewhere on the street. Other landmarks in the southern part of the road include the red brick Christ Church primary school, built 1873-4, set behind railings, and the Spitalfields Health Centre, built in 1984.

At the northern end of the Conservation Area, Brick Lane meets Bethnal Green Road. The corner building of 125 Brick Lane carries a plaque marking one corner of the slaughter family’s estate. The buildings along this road have a similar character to those on Brick Lane – mixed use 3-4 storey buildings with shops at ground level, though with more modelling of features (cornices, window surrounds, shopfront cornices etc).

A group of buildings at, and north of, the Sclater Street/Cheshire Street junction have been found to be mid 18th-century commercial tenement buildings behind their rebuilt 19th century frontages. An application to list these buildings has been made.

The Conservation Area encloses many streets to the west and east of Brick Lane. While Brick Lane is characterized by a great deal of variety along the terraces and buildings, the side streets are often characterized by more unified groups of buildings. A terrace on Cheshire Street is a good example of this, with high quality shopfronts, a

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Commercial Street The area to the west of the Brewery is a diverse mix of industrial, residential and commercial uses. The original character of the street layout was damaged by the railway cutting off the north and Commercial Street, cutting off the area from the south-west. However, the quality of the 19th century commercial warehouse buildings, the former police station, and more recent mixed-use developments has maintained a coherent urban character and street line to the streets in this area.

The red brick, stone and terracotta facades of Bedford House contribute to the area’s character at the corner of Quaker Street and Wheler Street.

Land Use

Although generally residential in character, there is a huge diversity of land uses across the Conservation Area and this is one of its essential qualities.

Brick Lane is predominantly retail shops, pubs, restaurants and cafes at ground floor level, with offices, storage and residential use above. There is a cluster of restaurants between Fournier Street and Woodseer Street, and the Brewery now contains cultural venues, art galleries, restaurants, nightclubs, start-up spaces and retail shops. There are many clothing shops scattered along the route, and a small cluster of leather clothes shops and internet cafes at the northern end of Brick Lane at Bethnal Green Road.

The rest of the area is mainly residential in character, but also includes light industry, warehouse retail, art galleries, museums, health centres and educational buildings.

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Scale

Brick Lane is made up of narrow frontage, 19th century shopfronts in buildings of 2, 3 and 4 storeys. The rest of the area is predominantly low-rise, of 3 to 4 storeys.

This low-rise character emphasizes the landmark value of Christ Church Spitalfields, whose spire towers over the area at a height of 225ft, and of the chimney of Truman’s Brewery. Both of these features act as focal points for views and important points of reference, making it easier for visitors to find their way around.

Open Space

Most of the public realm in the area is made up of lanes and streets, but there are a few larger open spaces. The most prominent is the small public space in front of Christ Church Spitalfields, and the adjacent gardens. This is a busy square, which acts as an important western gateway to the Conservation Area. The gardens provide a valuable area of peace and quiet, and its mature trees can be seen from many directions, softening the urban feel of the area.

The paved areas around the old Truman’s Brewery are a valuable resource for various activities, and the small yard at the Brewery Entrance at 91 Brick Lane is a lively, well- scaled public space. The trees in this yard play an important role in softening the view along Brick Lane, as do the railings in defining it.

The fields east of Code Street and north of Buxton Street were created by demolishing houses, and today have a quiet, almost rural, character, created by the line of trees and the isolated cluster of buildings on Shuttle Street, and emphasized by the city farm at the easternmost point.

Views

The view along Brushfield Street towards the west front of Christ Church Spitalfields is one of the most significant pieces of townscape in the Borough. The façade of Christ

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Church Spitalfields commands the view, and attracts people towards it along Brushfield Street.

Views along Fournier Street and the other 18th century streets are also particularly important. Views along Brick Lane change along its length, as different buildings and activities come into view.

The many streets extending to the west and east from Brick Lane often create very long straight views, in which the consistency of the rooflines is important. These include Buxton Street, Hanbury Street, Princelet Street, Bacon Street and Heneage Street.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Brick Lane and Fournier Street is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Brick Lane and Fournier Street, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Any new development should have regard to national, regional and local planning policy. At the national level, the Planning Act (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas Act) 1990 places a duty on Tower Hamlets to designate conservation areas in “areas of special architectural or historic interest”, and to formulate and publish proposals for the preservation and enhancement of its conservation areas. National policy for planning and the historic environment is set out in Planning Policy Guidance 15 (PPG15). At the regional level, policy 4B.1 of the London Spatial Development Strategy (or London Plan) states that ‘The Mayor will seek to ensure that developments … respect London’s built heritage.’ At the local level, the new Local Development Framework (LDF) of Tower Hamlets states that ‘the Council will protect and enhance the historic environment of the borough’. This is described in detail in policy CP49 of the Core Strategy of the LDF. The Conservation Area lies within the ‘Banglatown and Brick Lane’ Sub-Area of the City Fringe Area Action Plan (AAP) in the LDF. The following frontages are identified as primary frontages of a neighbourhood centre: 15-79 (odd) and 14-122 (even) Brick Lane. The City Fringe AAP policies include support for a small business focus including clusters of creative and cultural industries at the Old Truman’s Brewery site, and throughout the Sub-Area. Policy CFR30 addresses design and built-form in this area in detail. The LDF identifies 10 development sites in or around the Conservation Area. These include sites at the Bishopsgate Goodsyard, 32-42 Bethnal Green Road, the Cygnet Street Car Park, the former Shoreditch Station, Vallance Road, Cheshire Street, Allen Gardens North (as public open space), the Old Truman’s Brewery, a site at 86 Brick Lane and 40-48 Fashion Street. Large parts of the area are identified as an area of archaeological importance. Christ Church Gardens, Allen Gardens and Chicksand Ghat are identified as public open space.

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Spitalfields Farm and Allen Gardens, and the Spitalfields Viaduct are identified as sites of nature conservation. The London Cycle Network plus crosses the Conservation Area from north- west to east. Christ Church Spitalfields and the Truman’s Brewery Chimney are identified as local landmarks. Views towards them from publicly accessible places should be protected. The view up Fournier Street from Commercial Street is significant, and will be protected. Particular care would be necessary should the warehouse site at the end of this view be redeveloped.

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Grade I Grade II

Christ Church (including 10 – 48 Fashion Street gatepiers and gates to verger’s Drinking Fountain (in the yard) boundary wall of Christ Church Churchyard), Commercial Street Cattle and Horse Drinking Grade II* Trough (on pavement in front of Christchurch Rectory, 2 Fournier Drinking Fountain), Commercial Street and railings Street 4 Fournier Street and railings 5 Bollards (on the pavement in Great Synagogue, Fournier front of Christ Church Street (now the Great Mosque) Churchyard), Commercial Street 19 Princelet Street Christ Church Primary School Director’s House, Truman’s and attached railings Brewery, 91 Brick Lane 57 Brick Lane

6 Fournier Street and railings

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8 – 10 Fournier Street and 17 Fournier Street railings 19 Fournier Street 12 Fournier Street and railings 21 Fournier Street 14 Fournier Street and railings 23 Fournier Street 16 – 18 Fournier Street and 25 Fournier Street railings 27 Fournier Street 20 Fournier Street and railings 29 Fournier Street Ten Bells Public House, 84 Com 31 Fournier Street mercial Street 33 Fournier Street 1 Fournier Street 35 Fournier Street 3 Fournier Street 37 Fournier Street 5 Fournier Street 39 Fournier Street 7 Fournier Street 12 Princelet Street 9 Fournier Street 14 Princelet Street 11 Fournier Street 16 Princelet Street 13 Fournier Street 18 Princelet Street 1 Wilkes Street 20 Princelet Street 4 Puma Court 22 Princelet Street 5 Puma Court 18 Hanbury Street 6 Puma Court 16 Wilkes Street 7 Puma Court 10 Wilkes Street 13 Wilkes Street 3 Princelet Street 15 Wilkes Street 5 Princelet Street 17 Wilkes Street 7 Princelet Street 19 Wilkes Street 9 Princelet Street 21 Wilkes Street 11 Princelet Street 23 Wilkes Street 13 Princelet Street 25 Wilkes Street 15 Princelet Street 2 Princelet Street 17 Princelet Street 4 Princelet Street 21 Princelet Street 2 Wilkes Street 23 Princelet Street 6 Wilkes Street 25 Princelet Street 15 Fournier Street 24 Hanbury Street

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26 Hanbury Street Vat House, Truman’s Brewery, 34 Hanbury Street 148 Brick Lane 36 Hanbury Street 35 Buxton Street 38 Hanbury Street No 125 with attached street 122 Brick Lane name plaque to Sclater Street. 120 Brick Lane 2 – 38 Cheshire Street 118 Brick Lane 149 Brick Lane 116 Brick Lane 114 Brick Lane Locally Listed Buildings Commercial Tavern Public Hous e, 142 Commercial Street 14 Wilkes Street 58 Quaker Street 144-146 Commercial Street Brewmaster’s House, Truman’s 17 Cheshire Street Brewery, 95 Brick Lane St Matthias Church House, 52 C Trumans Brewery, 91 Brick Lane hilton Street Engineer’s House, Truman’s Brewery, 150 Brick Lane

Highways and Transportation Issues

On Brick Lane, cars and pedestrians share the road in an informal way, which contributes to the character of the street. The stretch of road running through Truman’s Brewery benefits from its paving and setts.

Grimsby Street, to the north of the viaduct, retains its 19th century feel due to the surrounding buildings and land uses, and the setts on the roadway.

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The concentration of small businesses in the area creates on-street servicing issues which need to be managed with consideration for all members of the community. On- street servicing should be preferred, however, as creating large off-street servicing bays is likely to be damaging to the character of the area.

The ongoing clash between late licensing of clubs and restaurants, and the peaceful enjoyment of sleeping hours by residents also needs careful management.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

The successful collective management of this Conservation Area must involve strong protection and sensitive enhancement of historic buildings and townscapes.

The management plan should also seek to protect the vibrant, mixed-use character of Brick Lane, which is a more complex challenge. Spontaneity of development, competitive on-street advertising and creative improvisation of building uses are all enduring characteristics of Brick Lane. These qualities enrich the cultural and economic life of the area and attract large numbers of visitors each week. Preserving these qualities, and supporting a rich mix of activities, needs to be carefully and creatively reconciled with protecting the character of the building and townscape.

The Wood – Michell Estate The 18th century houses, in particular the listed terraces of Fournier Street, Wilkes Street and Princelet Street should be conserved to the highest standards. The following guidelines were included in the 1979 Conservation Policy document for Fournier Street, and many buildings have been sensitively restored in the last 27 years.

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All repairs and alterations should seek to preserve the 18th century character and design of each house. Original features should be carefully repaired and maintained. Damaged or inappropriate features should be removed or replaced with features in keeping with the 18th century period.

Appropriate materials must be used for repair work and advice should be sought at an early stage. Roofs are frequently of natural slate, but there are also several types of clay tile, together with zinc and lead work. Walls are commonly of plum-coloured brick, but a range of other stock bricks has been used from near-black to yellow. Correct pointing is important and advice should be sought on mortar-mix, jointing and bond. Many facades have red brick dressings. Doors and windows are softwood and should be painted.

Rainwater pipes should be cast iron to original detailing. Railings should be replaced or restored to original pattern. Where it has previously been painted, the brickwork should be cleaned and the façade repointed when repair work is carried out. The attic storeys are faced in a variety of materials, principally tile or weather-boarding; these should be repaired or replaced in original form. Concrete roof tiles and metal windows will not be permitted. Many interiors contain 18th century staircases, panelling, fireplaces and plasterwork, and these should be retained where necessary and restored.

Bishopsgate Goodsyard site This is identified as a major development site, and the East London Line will be extended west from its previous terminus at Shoreditch. The Braithewaite Viaduct will be retained, and is likely to be central to this new development. The existing brick walls on to Brick Lane may be replaced with new appropriate development, respecting the scale, urban grain and materials of Brick Lane.

Extensions to Conservation Area The Council is considering two extensions to this Conservation Area. It is proposed to extend the area north across Bethnal Green Road to include the listed terrace, and then west to enclose the area around Redchurch Street – defined to the west by the

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Borough boundary, to the north by Old Nichol Street, and to the south by Bethnal Green Road. At the southern end of the area, the Conservation Area should be extended along both sides of Osborn Street (the southern extension of Brick Lane) to meet Whitechapel High Street.

Parks and Open Spaces

- Churchyard of Christ Church Spitalfields - Allen Gardens.

We will aim to achieve Green Heritage Site status for these gardens.

Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

a strong spirit of community and good race relations in Tower Hamlets. to get rid of prejudice, discrimination and victimisation within the communities we serve and our workforce

Brick Lane and Fournier Street Conservation Area Page 21 of 26 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

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The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

Brick Lane and Fournier Street Conservation Area Page 23 of 26 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volume 27: Spitalfields and Mile End New Town. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

19 Princelet Street E1

Priority – C Designation – Listed Grade II* Condition – Poor. Part Occupied. Ownership – Trust.

Summary Terraced house of 1719 by Samuel Worrall, builder, with added synagogue 1869 by a Mr Hudson. Combines a well preserved Spitalfields Huguenot merchant’s house with weaving garrets, and rare surviving small synagogue. The Spitalfields Centre proposes to reopen the building to the public as a museum of cultural diversity. Repair proposals have been invited from the Trustees.

11 Princelet Street E1

Priority – C Designation – Listed Grade II Condition – Poor. Vacant.

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Ownership – Company

Summary Terraced house built 1719, refronted mid-20th century. Spot listed April 2002. In need of sympathetic use.

2 Wilkes Street E1

Priority – C Designation – Listed Grade II Condition – Poor. Vacant. Ownership – Private.

Summary Early 18th century terraced house. Three storeys with basement and attic in painted brick. External repairs carried out, but still awaiting internal refurbishment. No windows to top floor, deterioration likely.

Well and Bucket Public House 143 Bethnal Green Road

Priority – C Designation – Listed Grade II Condition – Fair, Occupied Ownership – Company

Summary Part of mid to late 19th century terrace of shops and houses. Stucco façade, enriched, bracketed eaves cornice and quoins. Currently in hostel use.

Braithwaite Viaduct, Bishopsgate Goodsyard Wheler St / Brick Lane E1

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Priority – C Designation – Listed Grade II Condition – Poor, Vacant Ownership – Company

Summary Early railway viaduct built 1840 by John Braithwaite for the Eastern Counties Railway, formerly set within extensive brick vaulted goods yard c1880 which was demolished 2003. Future of viaduct uncertain; repairs to each side of viaduct necessary (where goods yard adjoined the viaduct).

Action Proposed to Secure:

To be written after public consultation.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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Tomlins Grove

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

Tomlins Grove Conservation Area Page 1 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

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1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Tomlins Grove Conservation Area was designated in June 1969. Bounded by Bow Road and the London Transport Board’s railway viaduct to the south, the Conservation Area contains a series of Grade II listed terraces along Tomlins Grove, Campbell Road and Arnold Road. The area's tree-lined streets reflect and reinforce its residential character.

History

In the 17th century, in the greater area of Bow, travellers were enticed towards the rural lifestyle that Bow offered, with many moving from London towards the east. It was only in the 1820’s that suburbanisation of the area began. A high standard of development appeared around Bow Road, however the introduction of the railways and associated industries deterred this ongoing high quality development.

With utilities such as the Tower Hamlets Cemetery, gasworks and workhouses appearing in Bow in the 19th century, the series of railway lines carved the parish into disparate sections. This included the railway viaduct to the south running alongside Eleanor Street and the North London Railway line, which was only recently revived as the Bow Church DLR line in 1987. The remaining land was filled with more modest streets of terrace housing. The Bow area was predominantly populated with Irish inhabitants, reaching its peak in 1891.

Character

The prevailing character of the Tomlins Grove Conservation Area is defined by its uniform group of terraces, dating back to the 19th century. Generally, the streets consist of pairs of houses, largely arranged in flat fronted terraces. Whilst the residential character and three storey scale is consistent throughout the Conservation Area, the streetscapes differ slightly in appearance. The area, in particular the Campbell Road streetscape, is historically significant. From circa 1973, the street was

Tomlins Grove Conservation Area Page 4 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines infilled with a stock brick group of terrace houses, amongst its older housing. At the time, this was considered an advancement in development, where previously, entire townscapes were subject to redevelopment. Campbell Road presents stock brick constructed, early 19th century pairs of houses, with either the London roof hidden by a corniced parapet or with a hipped roof and large projecting eaves to its rear. Tomlins Grove presents later 19th century terraces of stock brick houses and is predominantly 2 storeys plus basement with slate mansard roofs and dormer windows. In the past, the eastern side of Tomlins Grove did not consist of houses, as the gardens of the houses along Campbell Road extended right through. Arnold Road is of early 19th century houses, constructed of stock brick with slate roofs and attic dormers. Of particular note is the flat back of this terrace with no rear extensions. These rows of terrace housing are Grade II listed and are of collective townscape merit. The uniformity of the elevations contributes to the character of these terraces.

Land Use

The land use character of the area is entirely residential in nature, with commercial shopfronts (residential above) facing Bow Road. Alternative land uses would be particularly detrimental in the three primarily residential roads.

Scale

The three major streetscapes in the Tomlins Grove Conservation Area present a uniform scale of 3 storeys, differentiated by its roof profiles and features. The consistent parapet line is essential to this character.

Open Spaces

The Conservation Area is flanked by low scale terraces and tree-lined streetscapes, but does not contain any significant open space component.

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Views

Long views run along street axes, highlighting the repetition and rhythm of the continuous terrace housing, in particular along Tomlins Grove, Campbell Road and Arnold Road. Obscured views also exist towards the rear of the Campbell Road terraces, and the London butterfly roofs and chimney stacks.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Tomlins Grove is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Tomlins Grove, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Grade II

1-25 Tomlins Grove 35-49 Arnold Road 6-44 Campbell Road (even, west side) 13-27 Campbell Road (odd, east side)

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Locally Listed Building

2-4 Campbell Road (even, west side) 1-11 Campbell Road (odd, east side)

Highways and Transportation Issues

The draft Crossrail boundary runs past the southern tip of the area. Appropriate measures should be taken to mitigate any potential risks to the listed buildings in the area from the construction or operation of this link.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

Options should be considered for general improvements to the streetscape – particularly along Campbell Road which is a busy traffic thoroughfare. There is potential for improved lighting, street markings, paving and other features to be upgraded to respect the coherence and value of the Conservation Area.

Necessary repairs and maintenance should be carried out to building problems such as cracked stucco, damaged railings and weeds.

Many buildings in the area have significant group value, and in those cases residents should be consulted on whether they would support stricter planning controls to

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prevent certain types of permitted development which would harm the coherent character of the street. Examples might include painting buildings, windows or doors with discordant colours, or installing small pieces of equipment on the outside of houses.

In particular, the consistent building heights create a coherent sense of enclosure on these three roads, and therefore mansard roofs or taller extensions should not be permitted.

There is a vacant building on Campbell Road at the south end of the Conservation Area. This detracts from the quality of the area and if possible, this building should be refurbished and brought back into use as soon as possible.

Parks and Open Spaces

There are no significant parks or open spaces in the Tomlins Grove Conservation Area, although there are many mature trees and green curtilages.

Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

Tomlins Grove Conservation Area Page 11 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

This consultation draft document is available on our website at:

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It is also available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores in the Borough. Please call if you would like to know where to find a copy, or if you have any other questions.

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

If listed buildings are not maintained in good repair, then the Council can step in to ensure that relevant repairs are carried out. In some circumstances, the Council itself

Tomlins Grove Conservation Area Page 13 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines may undertake essential repairs and recover the cost from the owner. The Council has powers of compulsory purchase, if necessary to protect Listed Buildings.

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

At this time, we are not aware of any listed buildings at risk in the Conservation Area.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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Island Gardens

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

Island Gardens Conservation Area Page 1 of 17 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

Island Gardens Conservation Area Page 2 of 17 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Island Gardens Conservation Area Page 3 of 17 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Island Gardens Conservation Area was designated in March 1971. Island Gardens Conservation Area is located at the south end of the Isle of Dogs and is focused on the statutorily listed open space, developed to protect the axial views across the river of the Royal Naval College and the Queen’s House in Greenwich. The importance of these views has secured the park’s inclusion in the Buffer Zone of the Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site.

History

Island Gardens and its listed buildings are the only surviving post-war remnants of the area’s pre-20th century urban history. The linear strip of land facing the Thames was formerly used for manufacturing and ship repair. The land between Manchester Road and Saunders Ness Road, adjacent to Island Gardens, was historically occupied by terraced worker’s housing up until the Second World War when much of it suffered bomb damage. The remainder was cleared in the late 1960s, creating space for the George Green School and new estates of public housing.

Part of the Conservation Area falls within ‘Cubitt Town’, an area developed by William Cubitt from 1842 on land leased from the Countess of Glengall. It was leased for the purpose of establishing an industrial settlement which included a building yard, housing, wharves and the Newcastle Draw Dock on the River Thames. Cubitt also financed the building of Christ Church. Constructed between 1852-4 and designed by Frederick Johnstone, it is one of the few churches originally built to serve the communities associated with the industrial developments on the Isle of Dogs which had survived the Blitz.

In 1848 John Liddell, Medical Inspector to Greenwich Hospital put forward the idea of preserving an area on the Isle of Dogs facing the Greenwich Hospital from industrial development. His recommendations included the purchase of part of the riverside across the river from the hospital ‘to prevent the total closure of its vistas, and to shut

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out the annoyances of gloomy unsightly and offensive buildings, that are sure to be erected’. Island Gardens was designed in 1895 by John J Sexby of the LCC Parks Department on land acquired from Cubitt by the Commissioners of Greenwich Hospital. Formed from a reed-bed, the gardens were planted with trees to hide the industrial buildings on the Isle of Dogs from the Naval College. The gardens and plantings of Island Gardens are now protected by its listing.

Between 1861-5 Phillip Hardwick’s development plan for the area was implemented and included the construction of Wharf Road, now Saunders Ness Road, through the estate, which defined a 200ft wide strip along the river. The first of 100 houses was not constructed until 1862. Almost all of the housing, built up until 1880, was lost during the Second World War. The 19th century terraced housing which occupied much of the area has been replaced with new residential development and the George Green School.

A large number of people have moved away from the Isle of Dogs at two major points during the 20th Century, the first through wartime bombing and the second following the ‘wind-down’ and eventual closure of the docks. When the London Docklands Development Corporation (LDDC) was set up in 1981, the population had declined to 15,500. Shortly after, the Greater London Development Plan identified the whole of the Isle of Dogs riverside frontage as an area where commercial and industrial uses should be phased out.

The Docklands Light Railway (DLR), extending down into the Isle of Dogs, originally terminated at Island Gardens Station. Housing development schemes such as those on Saunders Ness Road and Invicta Wharf were constructed in the 1980 and 1990s and the Island Gardens public open space was rejuvenated at the same time.

Character

The character of the Conservation Area is defined by its open space and low density development, as well as a significant quantity of established planting. The majority of buildings are residential, constructed during the late 1970s and early 1980s and are of

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varying character and material. Very few surviving buildings date from the area’s pre- industrial period or industrial heyday.

The park at Island Gardens is a valuable outdoor amenity space, and is dominated by the Grade-II listed rotunda entrance to the Greenwich Foot Tunnel. Designed by LCC engineer Sir Alexander Binnie and constructed between 1896 and 1902, the building creates both a visual and physical link across the river to its sister building.

Island Gardens itself has changed very little, still providing an open and green focus for the area. Dotted throughout the Conservation Area are a small number of listed buildings, the only significant grouping located within ‘The Church of Christ and St John, Manchester Road’ tree preservation order area. The Waterman’s Arms public house is situated on Glenaffric Avenue with views out towards the Thames over the surviving Newcastle Draw Dock to Greenwich.

The Ferry House pub pre-dates all the buildings within the Conservation Area, appearing on early maps, dating it (probably) as 17th century in origin and associated with the Greenwich Ferry. This ferry ran for more than 500 years, using the site of the slipway in the boatyard opposite. 58-60 Ferry Street forms the only building within the Conservation Area pre-dating the industrialisation of the area. It was originally a riverside villa built in stages between 1830 and 50.

Land Use

The prevailing character of the Island Gardens Conservation Area is a mixture of residential and community, and is defined by its significant open space. Residential developments are a mix of speculative and affordable and the area is generally non- commercial in nature. The granting of planning permission for purposes other than educational, community or residential is therefore unlikely. The retention of community uses for purpose-built buildings within the area will be encouraged.

The small cafe pavilion is a valuable service which adds to the amenity value while being relatively discreet and not disturbing the tranquil quality of the park. The tables

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and benches are organized discreetly in the northern part of the gardens under the trees.

Scale

The majority of building heights in the area vary between 3-4 storeys. The Christ Church spire provides a prominent landmark which should be protected.

Open Spaces

Designated as Metropolitan Open land and contained within the buffer of the Greenwich World Heritage Site, the gardens comprise three acres of waterfront park which form the heart of the Conservation Area and afford outstanding views of the Royal Naval College in Greenwich. The park is the only significant open space within the Conservation Area and has a cultural importance beyond the Borough. It is furnished and planted in a simple way so as not to detract from the world heritage site across the River Thames, and its essential character is derived from its simplicity, tranquillity and the outstanding views across the river.

Views

The arrangement and location of the gardens provides access to views across the river to Greenwich, once described by Wren as ‘the best view of Greenwich Hospital’, and made famous by Canalettos’s famous 18th century painting ‘A View of Greenwich from the River’. Views up and down the river, towards Trinity Almshouses and the Old Greenwich Gas Works on the south banks of the Thames, are also significant.

The George Street School buildings form the low-scale backdrop to Island Gardens, affording views through the site to the river and Greenwich from Millwall Park and Mudchute.

The prominent spire of Christ Church is visible from much of the Conservation Area and can be glimpsed through the tree canopy from inside Island Gardens. The church

Island Gardens Conservation Area Page 7 of 17 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines spire is also visible from Greenwich and the safe-guarding of these views is particularly important.

The view up East Ferry Road, through the Ferry slipway to the river should be preserved. This was the link with Greenwich and the south for at least 500 years.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

Island Gardens Conservation Area Page 9 of 17 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Island Gardens is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Island Gardens, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

Island Gardens Conservation Area Page 10 of 17 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Grade II* Church of Christ and St John, Manchester Road

Grade II The Watermans Arms Public House, 1 Glenaffric Avenue Bollards at Dock Entrance to Newcastle Draw Dock, south-east side of Saunders Ness Road

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Newcastle Draw Dock, south-east side of Saunders Ness Road Entrance rotunda to the Greenwich foot tunnel (?) 60 Ferry Street Ferry House Public House, 26 Ferry Street

Locally Listed Building Christ Church Vicarage, Manchester Road

Highways and Transportation Issues

Manchester Road is the main thoroughfare along the north side of the Conservation Area. There is a grid of smaller roads, including Glenaffric Avenue and Saunders Ness Road, and then a network of pedestrian lanes and pathways closer to the river. There are some areas of historic floorscape around the Ferry House public house in the west of the Conservation Area, which should be protected or enhanced.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

Some public realm improvements have taken place recently in the east of the area between Glenaffric Avenue and the Newcastle Draw Dock, although further maintenance and landscaping improvements should be investigated. The historic interpretation signage has deterioriated to the point where it is difficult to read.

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Streetscape features such as railings and street signs should be cleaned and refurbished where necessary.

The 1980s riverside developments at Luralda Gardens and Cumberland Mills present many dead frontages to the surrounding streets and the narrow riverside walkway. In the event of any alteration or redevelopment on these sites, the potential should be explored for improving the quality of the public realm surrounding these developments through better lighting, landscaping and overlooking.

George Green’s School occupies a large, constrained, prominent site within the Conservation Area. While the school itself is an important part of the area’s history, dating back to 1828, the current buildings of the school do not in themselves make an important architectural contribution to the character of the Conservation Area. Any future redevelopment should seek to maintain the open character of the Island Gardens themselves, protect views from Island Gardens to Christ Church and views from Millwall Park to Greenwich where possible, and present a positive frontage to the surrounding streets.

At the west end of the site, there is an area of surviving historic street surfacing adjacent to the Ferry House public house. Consideration should be given to extending the Conservation Area boundary to include this.

The development at Livingston Place and Midland Place should be recognised as a successful example of the staggered terrace housing type, with well-cared-for pedestrian routes through the centre. The potential for higher quality lighting and landscaping along the waterfront itself should also be investigated.

Parks and Open Spaces

Island Gardens itself is listed, and is the most important open space within the area. We will aim to achieve Green Heritage Site status for these gardens.

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The special character of the gardens, in particular the unique views to Greenwich and its simple character, should be protected. This needs to happen in coordination with other requirements under other legislation and policies.

All trees in conservation areas are protected, and some trees in the Churchyard are also covered by Tree Preservation Orders (TPO’s). Notice must be given to the authority before works are carried out to any tree in the Conservation Area, and some works require specific permission. More information can be found in the Council’s Guide to Trees, and on the Tower Hamlets website. Carrying out works to trees without the necessary approval can be a criminal offence, and the Council welcomes early requests for advice.

Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

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Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

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Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs.

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The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

At this time, we are not aware of any listed buildings at risk within the Conservation Area.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

There is an application to build a hotel across the top of the Ferry Slipway, which would cut off East Ferry Road from the slipway and river. As described in the Appraisal, this site is historic and should be protected.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Three Mills

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

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Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

This Conservation Area was designated to complement the Three Mills Conservation area in the London Borough of Newham on the other side of the river.

Most of Three Mills lies on the east side of the River Lea, within Newham, and the part within Tower Hamlets is a small area on the west bank of the river. (the river is the boundary between the two boroughs).

The two authorities share responsibility for the enhancement of the riverscape in this location, and Tower Hamlets has designated the small area to the west of the river in order to ensure that development respects the character of the historic industrial quarter on the east side.

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1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Three Mills Conservation Area was designated in September 1971 to complement The London Borough of Newham’s designated Conservation Area. Its purpose is to safeguard and provide design control in the setting of the listed structures, in particular to the towpath surfacing, landscaping and any future development adjacent to the River Lea. The area is of considerable significance as it contains unique examples of 18th and 19th century industrial architecture.

History

Industrial activity had taken place on the River Lea for a long time, from dyeing and calico in the 17th and 18th centuries, to the production of gunpowder in the area. Milling was a characteristic of the area since the 16th century.

The first mills in the area were established at Stratford Langthorne Abbey (modern Stratford) in the Medieval and Tudor times to ground grain for the bakeries that supplied bread to the City of London. This was until the mills fell into disuse after the Dissolution. Whilst milling continued along the River Lea, by the 18th century, the mills used the ebb tide to power machinery. In 1727, Three Mills (a man-made island) was purchased privately by Peter Lefevre who operated the group of buildings, comprising the two tide mills and its associated distillery buildings. Constructed in 1776 with a brick front and timber-framed internal structure, The House Mill was used as a tidal grain mill. The Clock Mill, dating back to the mid 18th century but destroyed by fire, was rebuilt in 1817. This incorporated the original octagonal brick clock tower of 1753. Although originally purchased for gin distilling, the House Mill operated until the Blitz in 1940. It now belongs to the River Lea Tidal Mill Trust and operates as a museum. The Clock Mill continued to be used for milling and distilling until after 1945, where its site was converted to film studios and offices. All buildings on the Three Mills site was restored and converted by Julian Harrap Architects from 1989-1997.

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Character

The character of the Three Mills Conservation Area is defined by the Clock Mill and the House Mill as the centrepiece of the area. As approached from Three Mills Lane across the River Lea, the House Mill, Clock Mill and associated distillery buildings are seen, linked by granite paving.

The House Mill is the largest tidal mill in the country and represents the qualities of both the pre-industrial and industrial periods. Its brick faced frontage and weatherboard rear conceals its timber-framed structure. It has a doubled ridged, steep roof with 12 dormer windows lighting its two attic storeys.

Opposite the courtyard is the Clock Mill, a substantial tidal water-grain mill built of brick with timber floors and supported by iron columns. Altered over the years, the Clock Mill retains its corner tower, and is faced in brick with pointed gothic windows. Later additions to the Clock Mill included two drying kilns with dentilled eaves cornices, conical slated roofs and cowls. Entirely gutted of its fittings, including its grinding stones and wheels, the Clock Mill is now used for residential housing.

Land Use

Within the Three Mills Conservation Area in Newham, stand the three statutorily listed buildings, including warehouse buildings of 19th century industrial architecture. On the west of the River Lea, in Tower Hamlets, the Conservation Area covers the towing path for pedestrian access and part of the Tesco car park. It has been agreed that an allocation of car parking spaces would service visitors to the House Mill, which has been restored as a museum.

Scale

Any future development in proximity to the Three Mills region must respect the existing scale, proportions and character of the House Mill at 3 storeys (plus 2 attic storeys) and the Clock Mill at 4 and a half storeys. The Conservation Area designated by

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Tower Hamlets on the west side of the river seeks to control the impact of any potential development on Three Mills.

Open Spaces

The River Lea is one of a network of rivers set within the open lands of Mill Meads, east of the Conservation Area. The open and unenclosed feel of the towpath is an important characteristic of the area.

Views

The River Lea is significant in defining the visual character of the Three Mills area and is a historical reminder of the city’s dependence on water-power and industrial activity in the 18th century. The Conservation Area safeguards important townscape views, in particular the view east across the River Lea from Three Mill lane. Other views include panoramic views towards the House Mill and Clock Mill via the Three Mills Lane approach and to the gas works of Bromley-by-Bow as a backdrop to the river.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

In the case of Three Mills, this document is intended to support the conservation objectives of the London Borough of Newham in preserving and enhancing the Three Mills area, which lies mainly outside of Tower Hamlets.

Who is this conservation plan for?

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Outline Guidance on Applications

When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Three Mills is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Three Mills, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

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There are no listed buildings in the Three Mills Conservation Area in Tower Hamlets. However, there are several listed buildings in the adjacent Conservation Area in Newham.

Highways and Transportation Issues

The quality of the streetscape, the surface materials, street furniture and other features are integral parts of the character of conservation areas. Any work carried out should respect this historic character. Anyone involved in development which impacts on public spaces should refer to the Council’s street design guide and English Heritage’s ‘Streets for All’ document. The ongoing cost of maintenance should also be considered carefully.

Three Mill Lane is the important historic route which runs through this area across the river to the east. There are several areas of historic road surfacing and paving which should be protected as a valuable reminder of the area’s past.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

The current land use as a car park does not do justice to the historic or architectural value of the Three Mills area, and the proposals in the Area Action Plan to redevelop the area with a mix of uses represent a significant opportunity to enhance the riverside area.

Any proposals should respect the scale and presence of the historic mill buildings, particularly those closest to the river. In practice this means that any new development should not be more than 3-4 storeys high in the setting of the mills. New development should not mimic the architectural style or details of the mill buildings, but should be

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high quality, and reflect the robustness, simplicity and attention to detail of the historic industrial buildings.

The high quality of the historic paving is a key characteristic of this area, and new developments should give special attention to the quality of the public realm.

Parks and Open Spaces

The River Lea itself is an important key open space, and part of a much longer network of open space running north to south along the eastern edge of the Borough.

Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

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Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

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The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

Appropriate enforcement, with the support of the community, is essential to protect the area’s character. The Council will take prompt action against those who carry out unauthorised demolition within a Conservation Area. Unauthorised substantial or complete demolition of a building within a Conservation Area is illegal and it is therefore essential to obtain Conservation Area Consent before works begin.

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

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Listed Buildings at Risk:

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Action Proposed to Secure:

To be written after public consultation.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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Artillery Passage

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

Artillery Passage Conservation Area Page 1 of 18 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

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1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Artillery Passage Conservation Area was designated in September 1973 and was extended to its present boundaries in 1975. It is defined by Brushfield St to the north, Fort St and Sandy’s Lane to the west, Frying Pan Alley and Brune St to the south, and Toynbee St to the east.

History

The Conservation Area includes the site of the southern precinct of the Priory of St Mary Spital. The name of ‘Spitalfields’ comes from the Hospital of the Blessed Virgin Mary without Bishopsgate, established just north of the Artillery Passage Conservation Area at the turn of the 12th and 13th centuries (1247). The southern boundary of the Priory grounds closely followed the present line of Artillery Lane.

At the dissolution of the monasteries, the Priory was closed (1534-8). On 3rd January 1537 the area was designated as an artillery ground for the “Fraternyte or Guylde of Artyllary of longbowes, Crossbowes and handegonnes”. The Ground was described as adjoining the priory and lying within its precinct, the east, south and west sides enclosed by “newe bryk walls”. It was called the “Tesell Grounde” because of the teasels growing there, a type of plant used by local cloth manufacturers.

On the dissolution of the Priory, the “Tesell Ground” passed into the possession of the Crown and remained property of the Crown until 1682.

On 13th February 1682, George Bradbury and Edward Noell bought the Artillery Ground for £5,700 with a licence to build new houses. They began to develop the area in association with two city merchants, Nicholas Barbon, a master carpenter, and John Parsons. At this time, it was described as the Old Artillery Ground or Artillery Garden in or near the parish of St. Botolph’s, Bishopsgate.

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The street arrangement of these first residential developments still largely exists today. Artillery Lane became the main thoroughfare from Bishopsgate. Gun Street, Steward Street and Fort Street (Duke Street) were created to run south-north from Artillery Lane. Gun Street is said to run along the line of the gunnery within the Old Artillery Ground. In Artillery Passage a number of Barbon’s original houses survive, and No. 14 is relatively untouched.

In the late 17th century and 18th century, a significant community of Huguenot refugees arrived from France, many of whom brought silk-weaving skills from Nantes and Lyons and other centres in France. Many settled in the area of the Old Artillery Ground, and established it as a centre of the London silk weaving industry. A hundred years later, Jews fleeing the pogroms in Eastern Europe founded a thriving community in the area.

The area was home to several small churches and meeting houses which served the minority congregations living in the area, and these buildings changed hands according to the size of each community living in the area at different points in history. The Sandy’s Lane Synagogue was originally the ‘L’Eglise de L’Artillerie’, a French chapel opened in 1691 that was used by different congregations until it was consecrated as a Synagogue in 1870. Dome House and other houses may also have been used for religious meetings. By the middle of the 20th century the Jewish community had mostly moved on and a significant new community from Bangladesh was beginning to establish itself.

Spitalfields market, and the London Fruit and Wool Exchange, are located just outside the Conservation Area to the north-east. The market itself was established in 1682, and took various forms until the present buildings were built in the 1880s.

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Character

Artillery Passage is a surviving fragment of the 17th century street pattern, characterized by its network of historic narrow passages, lanes and courtyards. There are often several land uses within each building, including a significant number of residential dwellings, and this fine-grain mix of domestic-scale units is an essential characteristic of the area.

The buildings are mainly narrow-fronted Georgian 2, 3 and 4 storey houses with mansard roofs and retail uses on the ground floor. They are not set back from the street or lane, and form continuous building lines and a clearly-defined enclosure to the street.

The mainly 19th century shopfronts in Artillery Lane and Artillery Passage make an important contribution to the character of the area, and the Grade I listed 56 Artillery Lane is particularly valuable as one of the most significant surviving Georgian shopfronts in London. 56 and 58 also have remarkable panelled interiors and hall mouldings.

Many properties still retain their original panelled front doors, as well as associated letter boxes, door knockers and other features of interest. Ironwork forms an integral part of the Georgian and Victorian architecture in the area although much was lost in the war. This takes the form of railings, gates, decorative balconies, coal holes and bollards. Most windows in the area are double-hung sash windows with fine glazing bars. Shop’s normally have exterior hanging signs, and fascias are externally lit.

One Gun Street is converted into residential apartments. The main bulk of the building has been demolished but the the façade still remains facing Gun Street. The Convent of Mercy, which backs onto One Gun Street, is also converted as part of same scheme, but retains most of its original form including its Chapel.

The area between Brune Street and Whites’ Row also comprises three and four story Georgian houses and a few modern or rebuilt office blocks. Along Tenter Ground the

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style of the old warehouse buildings are reflected in the style of the new development opposite and similar efforts have been made in other areas of the conservation area.

Rooflines within the Artillery Passage Conservation Area tell the story of the area’s piecemeal development, and they vary according to each building’s individual age, type, width and height.

Bishops Court is a large office development between Artillery Lane and Brushfield Street. Its white metal cladding is out of character with the area, as are recent parts of Frying Pan Alley.

Today, despite the changes to its surroundings, the narrow lanes and passages of this small Conservation Area represent an irreplaceable window into the past – a rare surviving fragment of an ordinary mixed-use residential district of the 17th, 18th and 19th century inner city.

Land Use

There is a rich mix of land uses in the area, which is an essential quality and characteristic of the area. It is usual for buildings to have several uses, and land use is mainly retail on the ground floor with offices or residential accommodation above.

The ground floors contain a variety of small offices and shops, including services such as travel agents, hairdressers, restaurants, pubs and bars.

Scale

The scale of the buildings is predominantly domestic, with 2, 3, and 4-storey houses, with narrow fronts and varying plot depths.

The scale of the streets varies. Brushfield Street is a wider street running along the north side of the area with 4-storey buildings, including a ‘Piazza’ extending from Commercial Street to Crispin Street. Other streets and lanes are much narrower and

Artillery Passage Conservation Area Page 7 of 18 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines more intimate in scale, especially Parliament Court, and Artillery Passage which is only 2-3m wide.

Open Space

There are no significant areas of open space in the Conservation Area.

Views

In general, the views in the area are restricted to very short lengths by the narrow enclosures of the streets.

The following vistas and glimpses are particularly important:

Along Brushfield Street looking towards Christ Church on Commercial Street The view along Artillery Passage from Sandy’s’ Row and Artillery Lane through to Widegate Street – a glimpse of 17th century London. From the junction of Artillery Lane and the road connecting Artillery Lane and Brushfield Street, looking towards 56 Artillery Lane. Along Brushfield Street looking towards Christ Church on Commercial Street The length of Parliament Court and the buildings at either end should also be retained to conserve the character of this 17th century narrow alleyway. The views and glimpses of Spitalfields Market from Crispin Street and the Convent of Mercy.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Artillery Passage is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Artillery Passage, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Grade I

56 Artillery Lane

Grade II

11 Gun Street Lamp Standard in front of No. 38 Brushfield Street 40 Brushfield Street

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42 Brushfield Street 52 Brushfield Street 41 Artillery Lane Sandy’s Row Synagogue, Sandy’s Row 3 bollards on the south side of Artillery Passage 9-10 Artillery Passage 13 Artillery Passage 14 Artillery Passage 15 Artillery Passage 16 Artillery Passage 2 Artillery Passage 3 Artillery Passage 4 Artillery Passage 5 Artillery Passage 6 Artillery Passage 7 Artillery Passage 8 Artillery Passage 9a Artillery Passage 52 Artillery Lane 58 Artillery Lane 5 Whites Row and railings 17-19 Brune Street

Locally Listed Building

48 Brushfield Street 45 Crispin Street 46 Crispin Street 3 Steward Street 50 Crispin Street 1 Artillery Lane 32-40 Artillery Lane

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42-44 Artillery Lane 46-48 Artillery Lane 5 Sandy’s Row 11 Artillery Passage 12 Artillery Passage 12a Artillery Passage 9-13 Sandy’s Row 66-68 Bell Lane 1 Tenter Ground 3 Tenter Ground 5 Tenter Ground 16 Brune Street

Highways and Transportation Issues

Given the special character of the narrow lanes in this area, the use of standard highways engineering techniques should be avoided, and consideration should be given to restoring historic floor surfaces such as paving and setts.

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Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

Bishops Court is an office development clad in white metal panels, which does not make a positive contribution to the area. If the opportunity arises, this area would benefit it this building were re-clad or developed in a way more sensitive to the Conservation Area.

Shopfronts Any repair or maintenance work to historic shopfronts, particularly on Artillery Passage itself, will require sympathetic replacement of the original. Hanging signs are encouraged, and lighting of fascias should be provided by external lights (ie. no luminous signs).

Fruit and Wool Exchange Extending the boundary of this Conservation Area to the north-east. The new boundary would run along Brushfield St and Commercial St to enclose the Fruit and Wool Exchange buildings and the adjacent car park.

The original Fruit and Wool Exchange was constructed in 1929 as an extension to Spitalfields Market. There are current proposals to demolish this building and replace it with an office development. Retaining this building, or altering the interior, is the preferred option for this site. If new development is proposed, then as a minimum the following guidelines should apply:

- Although the building is not listed itself, its location affects the setting of many listed buildings, and it is a key part of the setting to the Grade I-listed Christ Church Spitalfields. It also affects the setting of three Conservation Areas – ‘Wentworth Street’, ‘Artillery Passage’, and ‘Brick Lane and Fournier Street’. - Given the importance of this site, any new building should be of the very highest architectural design quality. It should make a distinctive, appropriate and sensitive contribution to the local townscape, while respecting the dominance of the church and the character of the area. - Design decisions about the land uses within new buildings, the architectural expression and choice of materials should be informed by a thorough

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understanding of the area’s character, and in particular the fine-grain mix of uses in the surrounding area (in particular along the northern edge of Brushfield Street)

Parks and Open Spaces

There are currently no parks or open spaces in this Conservation Area.

Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

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Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

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Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volume 27: Spitalfields and Mile End New Town. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

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The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

There are proposals to demolish the Fruit and Wool Exchange, at the corner of Brushfield Street and Commercial Street, in order to build a new office development. There is a risk that it will be replaced by a building of lower architectural quality which will detracts from the setting of Christ Church and damage the character of the surrounding Conservation Areas.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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Narrow Street

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

Narrow Street Conservation Area Page 1 of 17 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

Narrow Street Conservation Area Page 2 of 17 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

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1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Narrow Street Conservation Area was designated in December 1975 and covers the narrow Thames waterfront which once linked Limehouse to Ratcliffe. This includes the entrance to the Limehouse Cut, now filled-in, and Limekiln Dock, enclosed by historic 19th century warehouses. The area is characterised by 19th and 20th century wharf-side buildings relating to the port and commercial activities which developed following the opening of Regent’s Dock in the early 19th century. Three Colt Street, one of the original streets in Limehouse, forms the eastern boundary of the Conservation Area, and the western edge is marked by the entrance lock to Regent’s Canal Dock. ‘The Grapes’ Public House forms the end of an important Georgian terrace which preserves the scale of earlier 18th century riverside development.

History

The area of Limehouse was named after the lime kilns located at Lime Dock. Established by the 14th century when chalk was brought in from Kent to serve the London building industry, lime burning was the first of the ‘obnoxious industries’ located downwind of the city. The historic Lime House (1705) which stood at its southern end, was demolished in 1935. Known at the time as ‘Lime Hurst’, it was home to a busy mercantile community, supporting industries such as shipbuilding and provisioning, with rope works located out in the fields. The small, early 19th century warehouses of Dunbar Wharf which back onto Limekiln Dock where named after the shipbuilders Duncan Dunbar & Sons, who ran a famous fleet of fast sailing ships to India, Australia and North America.

Between 1610 and 1710 the hamlet more than tripled in size, and by the early 18th century it was absorbed by London’s eastern expansion. Limehouse became part of the industrial east end, notable principally for its Chinatown centred on the pre-war Limehouse causeway. In 1767-70, the River Lea navigation system was reconstructed as a canal to shorten some water journeys. The Limehouse Cut was built to provide a link between the Thames and the Lea at Bromley by Bow. The Regent’s Canal

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Company was formed in 1812 to construct a canal to link the Grand Junction at Paddington with the Thames at Limehouse. Completed in 1820 with the construction of Regent’s Canal Dock (now Limehouse Basin), the entrance to the Regent’s Canal provided the gateway to the whole of Britain’s canal system. Between 1853-64 the Limehouse Cut was diverted through the Regent’s Canal Dock. Its disused entrance was crossed by a wrought-iron girder bridge when the Limehouse Lock was rebuilt in 1865.

By 1969, river-borne trade waned and industrial activity had all but disappeared, and Regent’s Canal Dock closed and was renamed Limehouse Basin. Part of the Lock is now preserved on the north side of Narrow Street, lined by a row of late C19th century lock-keepers’ cottages. The Limehouse Basin marina, north of the Conservation Area, was privately developed in the 1980s and included the reclaiming of modest areas of water above the Limehouse Link Tunnel for residential development.

Although the establishment of these new routes between London and its docklands stimulated industry in the area, the amenity of the hamlet was largely destroyed in the process, further threatened by the proposed construction of a ‘northern relief route’ in 1979. Instead, the implemented road scheme (1989-93) reduced the pressure of through traffic on Narrow Street, hiding it in a tunnel beneath the Limehouse Basin, and led to Limehouse being developed as a desirable residential address.

Character

By 1880, the riverside was lined with small warehouses and industrial buildings on narrow plots. Up to 5-storeys high and only a few bays wide, the warehouses along Limekiln Dock still convey the atmosphere of the historic 19th century docklands industry, their original loading doors and cast iron windows preserved as examples of the successful conversion of this building type to residential use. The late 17th and 18th terraced housing on Narrow Street also provides one of the few surviving examples of this characteristic Limehouse dwelling type, evidence of the wealth of the once vibrant, sea-faring community. The street facades remain largely intact, some with surviving historic shopfronts, although street-level use is now residential and the architectural

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integrity of some parts of the river frontage has been compromised in the past. The scale of these listed houses and narrow warehouse buildings give Limehouse a more intimate and domestic character than its neighbour Wapping.

The character of the Narrow Street Conservation Area is also defined by its historic riverfront. The surviving industrial heritage contributes to the character and interest of the Thames shoreline, the organic development of the area evidenced in the different projections of buildings on the river face. The river walls, which historically protected the inland marshes from the river’s tidal flow, are now lined with a wall of warehouse buildings and residential developments. These are periodically interrupted by wharves, jetties and small-scale inlets, where steps and ramps down to the water’s edge once provided access for passengers and watermen at a time when river crossings and ship access were serviced by ferries. Duke Shore Stairs was the lowest point on the northern bank for passenger embarkation and provides a framed glimpse of the Thames from Narrow Street. Draw Docks, dry docks, entrance locks and the associated industrial archaeology (bridges, cranes, pumps and rails etc.) all contribute to the character and historic interpretation of the area’s industrial past and many have been successfully preserved to tell the story of the Borough’s history.

Land Use

With the decline of river transport in the 20th century, riverside uses changed and new development was sought to stem the decay of the Thames riverfront. Post-war Government funding supplemented some costs of the residential redevelopment of the Docklands after the closure of the docks, and the Limehouse riverfront was transformed from a decaying industrial landscape to an attractive residential area. The balance between council-owned housing (once accounting for 95% of housing in the Limehouse area) and private housing dramatically shifted following the demolition of a number of local authority-owned flats for the construction of the Limehouse Link.

The Narrow Street terrace represents the earliest housing of this type to survive in the area. The early gentrification of the riverfront houses in the late 1950s was followed by the redevelopment of the larger wharves at the western end of Narrow Street in the

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1970s. The redevelopment of the smaller warehouses was initially delayed by the Borough’s zoning policies, seeking the retention of industrial use in the area. These problems were finally eliminated when the London Docklands Development Corporation (LDDC) took over the responsibility for facilitating the docklands redevelopment in 1981, and as a result several of the smaller riverside wharves are now in residential use and Grade-II listed.

Although housing has almost entirely replaced industry in Limehouse, the retention of the few remaining commercial uses in the area is very important for the character of the streets, and for the local community.

Open space

The historic sense of enclosure once provided by buildings lining both sides of Narrow Street has significantly altered in recent years, with the opening-out of the northern street edge. Halfway along its length, Narrow Street expands into a wedge of open space laid out by the LDDC in 1994, linking the Conservation Area with Ropemakers Fields, a public park named after the ropewalks that occupied the area in the 19th century. Other open space has been created around the former entrance lock to Regent’s Canal Dock, and at the mouth to Limekiln Dock, forming part of the historic Thames riverfront walk.

Scale

The scale varies throughout the development. In general, buildings are relatively low, and the historic terraces are between 2 and 4 storeys. The warehouses around Limekiln Dock are approximately the same height. At the west end of the area, the redeveloped Paper Mill Wharf is six storeys, and at the east of the new development parts of Dundee Wharf rise to 11 storeys. On the eastern border of the area, the Canary Riverside development is set on a podium, rising to a total height of approximately 15 storeys, in contrast to the rest of the area, although this is at a significant distance from the historic core of the Conservation Area.

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Views

Previously lined by buildings either side, Narrow Street now opens out to the north, creating a historically uncharacteristic sense of space and providing views of riverfront buildings across open areas in Limehouse Basin and Ropemakers Fields. Views of the river are glimpsed between buildings lining the Thames over narrow steps and inlets, with open views across the river provided at the wider openings of former dock entrances, maintaining a visual connection with historic canals and inland docks. Riverfront access brings the Thames path across the mouth of the Limekiln Dock over a dramatic footbridge affording good views along the rear of the converted warehouses lining the tidal inlet.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Narrow Street is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Narrow Street, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Any new development should have regard to national, regional and local planning policy. At the national level, the Planning Act (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas Act) 1990 places a duty on Tower Hamlets to designate conservation areas in “areas of special architectural or historic interest”, and to formulate and publish proposals for the preservation and enhancement of its conservation areas. National policy for planning and the historic environment is set out in Planning Policy Guidance 15 (PPG15). At the regional level, policy 4B.1 of the London Spatial Development Strategy (or London Plan) states that ‘The Mayor will seek to ensure that developments … respect London’s built heritage.’ At the local level, the new Local Development Framework (LDF) of Tower Hamlets states that ‘the Council will protect and enhance the historic environment of the borough’. This is described in detail in policy CP49 of the Core Strategy of the LDF. The riverside area is designated as an area of importance for nature conservation and archaeology, as well as being part of the Blue Ribbon network. Narrow St, the walkway in front of Paper Mill Wharf, and the access to Blythes Wharf are identified as strategic river walkways, which continue east across the swing bridge in front of Dundee Wharf. A strategic cycle route passes through Ropemakers Fields, across the Swing Bridge and towards Dundee Wharf. In addition, the draft Crossrail boundary runs along the northern edge of the site. The Isle of Dogs Area Action Plan includes a small portion of the east of this Conservation Area, including the two large developments at the east. Canary Riverside is also included in the area designated as a ‘major centre’.

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

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Grade II

Limehouse Cut, Entrance Walls. The Grapes, 76 Narrow Street 78-86 Narrow Street 88 Narrow Street 90 Narrow Street 92 Narrow Street 94 Narrow Street 136-140 Narrow Street 142 Narrow Street Limehouse Wharf, 148 Narrow Street 80 Three Colt Street, London Limekiln Dock.

Locally Listed Building

48 Narrow Street

Highways and Transportation Issues

The quality of the streetscape, the surface materials, street furniture and other features can all be integral parts of the character of Conservation Areas. Any work carried out should respect this historic character. Anyone involved in development which impacts on public spaces should refer to the Council’s street design guide and English Heritage’s ‘Streets for All’ document. The ongoing cost of maintenance should also be considered carefully.

Narrow St itself is the main thoroughfare through the area. The road surfacing does not match the exceptional quality of the architecture, and consideration should be given to very high quality improvement work.

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Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

The groups of buildings along Narrow St, at Nos. 76-94, and 136-150 form very high quality groups. The row of houses adjacent to the ‘Grapes’ public house is one of the best surviving examples of historic terraced housing in the Borough. Consideration should be given, in consultation with local residents, of introducing stricter planning controls to protect the quality and coherence of these groups.

Consideration should also be given to restore the historic sense of enclosure along the northern street edge of Narrow Street.

The walkway in front of Paper Mill Wharf suffers from blank frontages at ground level. In any future refurbishment of the building, consideration should be given to the possibility of providing a more active frontage to the riverfront.

Although much less damaging than the earlier proposal to create the ‘Northern Relief Road’ through the centre of this area, the construction of the Limehouse Link and Canary Riverside left a mixed legacy at the eastern end of the Conservation Area. The riverside park makes a positive contribution to the area, but the road tunnel service building and the blank frontages to the north side of the Canary Riverside development at ground level are negative features. Options should be investigated for improving this area, while still preserving the quiet, residential character of the existing place.

The eastern boundary reflects the historic layout before major redevelopments, and currently cuts across the Canary Riverside development at an awkward angle. Options should be investigated for rationalizing this alignment to provide a sensible long-term boundary to the area. This is likely to include Dundee Wharf, as it makes a reasonably positive contribution to the area and encloses the eastern side of the Limekiln dock.

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Parks and Open Spaces

There are few large open spaces within the Conservation Area, except for the new riverside park at the eastern end of the development.

The Conservation Area extends to the centre of the Thames, and the long views towards the riverbank are significant. New development should not compromise the quality of these views.

Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

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Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

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Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs.

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The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

At this time we are not aware of any listed buildings at risk in the Conservation Area.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Coldharbour

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

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Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

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1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Coldharbour Conservation Area was designated in December 1975, and is located on the eastern side of the Isle of Dogs and includes the two entrances into the Millwall and Blackwall Dock Basins. Coldharbour survives as one of the last examples of the narrow streets which once characterised the river’s perimeter. Its southern boundary includes the river entrances to the historic dry docks, now filled-in, and a number of late 18th – early 19th century listed buildings.

The sole remaining fragment of the old hamlet of Blackwall, the Conservation Area secures the protection of the surviving historic townscape and guides the development of high quality residential buildings on adjacent sites.

History

The principal commercial development on the Isle of Dogs occurred in the early 19th century, following the completion of the two northern basins for the West India Dock Company in 1802, marking a new era of enclosed dock construction. The construction of the two separate dock basins (Import and Export), with independent access to the river, provided secure customs facilities for the Board of Excise at the docks and secure storage warehouses within their walls. The West India Import Dock (the largest of the period), Blackwall Basin and its entrance were opened in 1802. The Export Dock was opened in 1806, with all works associated with the West India Docks completed by 1809. The Millwall Dock Basins, located further south on the Isle of Dogs, were built between 1867-8.

The entrance lock into the Blackwall Basin formed the most critical point of the original dock system, constructed to provide greater control over water levels and reduce silting. Its hasty construction, however, proved to be a constant concern for the dock company. The collapse of the outer wing wall in 1851 highlighted the dependency of dock operations on this principal entrance and provided a catalyst for the enlargement

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of the South Dock east entrance in 1870. The Blackwall entrance subsequently fell into disrepair, its operation confined to level tide.

By the 1890’s the South Dock entrance was obsolete and the London and India Docks Joint Committee commissioned the reconstruction of the Blackwall entrance (1892-4) as part of a larger scheme for West India Dock System. The entrance was reopened in 1894 and included new lock gates and hydraulic machinery, installed to manage the lock water levels, much of which still survives.

Following the completion of a new South Dock east entrance and passages linking the Import, Export and South Docks in 1929, the Blackwall entrance closed between 1940-50 and reopened to service barge traffic only. Last used in 1968, the LDDC removed the gates and hydraulically-operated bridge in 1987. The Blackwall Export Dock passage was filled-in when the Bellmouth passage was constructed in 1927-9. The Import passage survives.

The surviving historic buildings in the Coldharbour Conservation Area are contemporaries of the West India Dock development.

Character

Most Docks were built with tidal entrance basins, replenished at high tide, which served as reservoirs to fill the entrance locks. The water-levels in the quays were held constant by communicating locks which separated the docks from the basins. These Dock waterways and their connections with the Thames provide the most significant defining elements of London’s Docklands. The system of dock entrances, impounded water areas, canals, and associated artefacts have been preserved as evidence of the unique history of London’s Docklands under the stewardship of the London Docklands Development Corporation (LDDC), formed in 1980 to manage the regeneration of London’s Docklands. Having met most of its targets, securing the conservation and redevelopment of much of the Dockland’s heritage, the responsibility was returned to the local authorities in 1998.

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The Conservation Area safeguards the two historic ship entrances, the northern entrance to the original West India Basin and associated docks, and the southern entrance to the canal which linked Blackwall Reach with Limehouse Reach forming the ‘Isle of Dogs’. The two entrances are linked by the narrow ‘Coldharbour’, lined by a number of significant historic buildings, fronting the river to the east.

Early housing in the docklands area is now rare, and most of that dating back to the 18th and 19th century protected by statutory listing. Over-looking the entrances to the West India Docks, the two Dock Official’s houses, Bridge House (1819-20) designed by John Rennie for the ‘Superintendent’, or Principal Dockmaster of the West India Dock Company, and Isle House (1825-6) designed by Rennie’s son, are both elegant, detached residences adopting full-height bow windows which facilitates the monitoring of dock entrances.

An amalgamation of two houses by Samuel Granger (c.1820), Nelson House at No.3 Coldharbour presents a double-bowed river frontage behind a garden. No.15 Coldharbour was the home and workshop of Benjamin Granger Bluett, a joiner, mast and block maker. Constructed between 1843-44 on the site of an earlier (1770) structure, the house is listed for its largely intact interior, and for its cultural interest as a rare survivor of purpose-built live/work accommodation in this area of the Docklands.

The former Blackwall River Police Station (1893-4), located at No.19-19a, was designed by John Butler, Metropolitan Police Architect, and converted to residential in the early ‘80’s. The successfully redeveloped Gun Public House sits at the southern end of Coldharbour on a site historically occupied by a public house since the 1710s.

Coldharbour retains much of its original maritime character, its narrow ‘corridor’ preserved by appropriate new residential development to the west, and the sensitive redevelopment of surviving historic buildings.

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Land Use

Once defined by its 19th century port and shipbuilding activities, the Coldharbour townscape is now almost exclusively residential, with the retention and successful redevelopment of The Gun Public House as a local ‘gastro-pub’, attracting clientele from a much larger area.

Open Space

The landscaped grounds of Bridge House and Nelson House are protected by tree preservation order area designations, and the trees contained within these areas account for the only mature plantings in the Coldharbour area. Public access to the riverfront has been successfully integrated into the residential developments flanking each of the entrance locks, and around the perimeter of the Blackwall Basin and Graving Dock. Much of the character of narrow Coldharbour can be attributed to the historic landscaping materials, including cobbled street surfaces, cast iron bollards and lamp standards.

Scale

The scale of the new residential development along the western edge of Coldharbour has contributed to the historic sense of enclosure, replacing buildings of a similar scale on narrower plots. The setting of the Conservation Area, however, has been altered by the high-rise development surrounding it, making this surviving pocket all the more valuable and remarkable.

Views

The Canary Wharf development forms a dramatic backdrop to the small stretch of buildings along the historic riverfront. Glimpses of the Millenium Dome on the southern banks of the Thames are afforded between the riverfront buildings on Coldharbour, and framed by new residential development either side of the former Blackwall entrance lock.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Coldharbour is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Coldharbour, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Grade II

24 Prestons Road 1 Cold Harbour 3 Cold Harbour 5 Cold Harbour

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7 Cold Harbour 15 Cold Harbour 19 Cold Harbour Gun Tavern Public House, 27 Cold Harbour

Highways and Transportation Issues

The quality of the streetscape, the surface materials, street furniture and other features are all integral parts of the character of conservation areas. In Coldharbour, there are several areas of historic road surfacing which could be at risk from insensitive reinstatement following repairs or upgrades to utility infrastructure. Any work carried out should respect this historic character. Anyone involved in development which impacts on public spaces should refer to the Council’s street design guide and English Heritage’s ‘Streets for All’ document. The ongoing cost of maintenance should also be considered carefully.

There is potential for improvement along the length of Prestons Road on the western edge of the Conservation Area. The current road, with its expansive road markings, reservations, bollards and tall lighting posts does not convey any sense that it is passing a valuable piece of historic townscape. Enhancements could also improve the cycle network as well as the pedestrian experience.

Increasing car use threatens to overwhelm the street environment and dominate the Conservation Area. Road engineering has weakened street frontages, particularly on more recent housing developments in the area. Ways of reducing the impact of road engineering on the streetscape by investigating more subtle alternatives to road markings, bollards, barriers and wide-radius kerbs should be investigated as part of any new development.

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Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

The Wood Wharf Masterplan site to the west of the Conservation Area is identified for major new development. The preferred uses for the eastern part of this site are residential, employment and public open space, and the border with the Conservation Area has been identified as sensitive.

In order to protect the character of Coldharbour itself, residents should be consulted on whether an Article 4 direction should be used to protect against permitted developments which might harm the character of this space.

New development proposals should have regard to the area’s heritage as part of the mixed-use historic Blackwall village, with a mix of houses, the former River police station and the historic public house. While the area should remain predominantly residential, occasional small-scale workshops or studios would respect this heritage, providing that they are at a domestic scale and do not harm the residential character of the area. The Area Action Plan states that the provision of a wide variety of small and medium-sized business space, although in this Conservation Area it is likely that only small-scale business space would be appropriate.

Parks and Open Spaces

There are no major parks in the Coldharbour Conservation Area, although there are many successful open spaces, particularly around the historic dock entrances.

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Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

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In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

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criminal offence and could result in a fine and/or imprisonment. Likewise, unauthorised substantial or complete demolition of a building within a Conservation Area is also illegal. It is therefore essential to obtain Conservation Area or Listed Building Consent before works begin.

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

At this time we are not aware of any listed buildings at risk in the conservation area.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Victoria Park

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

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Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

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1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Victoria Park Conservation Area was designated in March 1977 and includes the listed park, the formal axial road pattern to the south west and the Victorian terraces (many of which are listed).

To the south, the park boundary is clearly defined by the canal, punctuated by Victorian cast iron bridges (Scheduled Ancient Monuments), linking across to the park. The north and east boundaries of the Conservation Area trace the boundary of the park itself and extends to the south-west enclosing an area of domestic townscape, bordering the park along Approach and Old Ford Road.

The Grade-II* listed Victoria Park remains one of the East End’s greatest civic assets. The park and its surroundings are worthy of the highest standards of preservation and enhancement.

History

Historically, the area to the north of the Borough was occupied by a few scattered dwellings in open fields. Of these, Bishops Hall (also known as Bonner Hall) was significant as the Manor House for the Parish of Stepney, and housed successive bishops until 1550.

During the 18th century, the open pasture land increasingly gave way to market gardens, which supplied the City of London with fresh produce, and brick kilns supplying the construction needs of an expanding city. By the 19th century, the population of London had doubled and the fields, orchards and market gardens were rapidly urbanised as the city expanded into the east end. Overcrowding was accompanied by the poverty and squalour associated with the industrial revolution.

In 1849, a petition signed by 30,000 residents was presented to Queen Victoria, requesting that a green space be made available for the ‘health and recreation’ of the

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East End. In 1841, the Government sold York House in Westminster to raise money for the acquisition of 77 hectares of land, for the purposes of laying out a park to meet these needs.

Sir James Pennethorne, a protégé of John Nash and architect of Battersea Park, prepared plans for Victoria Park and it was finally laid out in the early 1840s. By 1845, remaining fruit trees had been removed and replaced by 5000 ornamental trees and shrubs. The park was formally opened in 1845, and the park was expanded to 87 hectares by 1872.

At the time, it was hoped that the area would become fashionable with the middle classes and eventually lead to a reduction of social problems caused by poverty. This did not prove to be the case. The depression and general antipathy towards the area meant that properties were not as marketable as expected. The envisaged extension of Approach Road, through Bethnal Green Gardens to Cambridge Heath Road was never realised.

In 1845, Bonner Hall was demolished. Cross’s New Plan of London (1847) indicates that substantial development of the area had been completed by that time. Property around the park began to develop rapidly throughout Queen Victoria’s reign, establishing an attractive and coherent residential area.

Character

The character of the area is principally defined by Victoria Park – a fine example of the English park landscape tradition, set out with sweeping lawns, informal tree plantings and irregular lakes. The formal axial road pattern adopted on the park’s western periphery drew inspiration from the more formal terraces fringing the royal parks of West London. Roads in the area are broad and tree-lined, or fringed with the landscaped front gardens, all reflecting and contributing to the park setting.

The 19th century residential terraces have largely retained their traditional joinery details, slate roofs and stock brickwork. A uniform cornice line and surviving historic

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decoration, typical of the Victorian architectural style, contribute to a coherent and distinctive character in the area.

Landmark institutional buildings generally sit within their own landscaped grounds, in keeping with the open character and setting of Victoria Park. The London Chest Hospital, opened in 1855, is the most significant of these buildings, in terms of its presence in the urban environment. Other important institutional buildings include the Raines Foundation School and the Bonner Street Primary School. Constructed in 1875 to the designs of E R Robson, the school remains a relatively intact and little altered example of a London Board School.

The Regents Canal and the Hertford Union Canal run through the Victoria Park Conservation Area and many of the historic industrial buildings associated with these waterways make a significant contribution to the townscape. The hard built edge fronting the canal creates a sense of definition to its edge.

Pockets of post war development exist where terraces have been lost and redevelopment has occurred. The largest of which is Park View Estate, constructed in the late 1950s to early 1960s. Set in its own park-like grounds, the mature plantings and overall uniformity of the estate is sensitive to the Conservation Area. The special character of the Victoria Park Conservation Area has however been compromised by past unsympathetic development. Future development should seek to improve these areas of the urban environment.

Land Use

The open parkland of Victoria Park covers most of the Conservation Area. The character of the developed part of the Conservation Area is mainly residential, with some commercial, industrial and institutional uses. Small-scale local shops and public houses continue to support the residential community, generating street-level activity. This was a characteristic of the Victorian street scene.

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Open Space

Victoria Park is designated as metropolitan open space and is the most significant piece of parkland in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets, retaining much that is characteristic of Victorian parks and gardens.

Mature plantings and landscaping in both the public and private gardens create the high-quality open character of much of the area. Many individual trees are protected within the Victoria Park Tree Preservation Order Area.

Scale

The scale and density of development varies across the area. The prevailing height is 3-4 storeys for Victorian terraced housing. Generally, the development of tall buildings would be considered inappropriate, as its dominance in the residential area would impact on the quality of views within the park.

Views

The landscaping of the park creates several vistas along the axes of the park, as well as more general panoramic views across open grass. Many streets and buildings in the area are oriented towards the park, creating local views of the parklands. Elsewhere, terraces frame long views towards local landmarks.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Victoria Park is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Victoria Park, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Any new development should have regard to national, regional and local planning policy. At the national level, the Planning Act (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas Act) 1990 places a duty on Tower Hamlets to designate conservation areas in “areas of special architectural or historic interest”, and to formulate and publish proposals for the preservation and enhancement of its conservation areas. National policy for planning and the historic environment is set out in Planning Policy Guidance 15 (PPG15). At the regional level, policy 4B.1 of the London Spatial Development Strategy (or London Plan) states that ‘The Mayor will seek to ensure that developments … respect London’s built heritage.’ At the local level, the new Local Development Framework (LDF) of Tower Hamlets states that ‘the Council will protect and enhance the historic environment of the borough’. This is described in detail in policy CP49 of the Core Strategy of the LDF. Victoria Park is listed as a Historic Park, and as Metropolitan Open Land. Victoria Park is designated as an area of importance for nature conservation. The Blue Ribbon and Green Chain network run along the canals in the area. Routes on the Strategic Cycle Network, and the London Cycle Network Plus run through the Conservation Area from west to east. The triangular site between Bishop’s Road, Bonner Way and St. James’s Avenue is identified as an area which can accommodate some new development.

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Ecclesiastical Grade C (equivalent to Grade II)

St James The Less Church, St James's Avenue

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Grade II*

Baroness Burdett Coutts Drinking Fountain, Victoria Park Three Colts Bridge, Hertford Union Canal Parnell Road Bridge, Hertford Union Canal

Grade II

40-80 Cyprus Street (even, south side) 47-73 Cyprus Street (odd, north side) 92-124 Old Ford Road (even, south side) 2-24 Approach Road (even, east side) Parmiters School, Approach Road (east side) Railed Wall and Gate Piers at Parmiters School, Approach Road (east side) 27-45 Approach Road (odd, west side) Gate Piers at Bonner Hall, between park and Sewardstone Road St James Vicarage, St James Avenue Railings, Gate and Gate Piers, St James Vicarage Stable block to NW of Lock Cottage, Old Ford Lock Lock Cottage, Old Ford Lock Stop Lock Bridge at the junction of Regents Canal and Hertford Union Canal 236-256 Old Ford Road (even) 274-302 Old Ford Road (even) 223 Grove Road Llanover Lodge, Victoria Park, Old Ford Road No 3 Lock Cottages, Top Lock, Hertford Union Canal Top Lock, Hertford Union Canal Stone Alcove, Victoria Park Stone Alcove, on east side of southern drive and south-west of Cadogan Gate

Locally Listed Building

126-168 Old Ford Road (even, south side) 49-71 Approach Road

Victoria Park Conservation Area Page 11 of 17 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Royal Cricketers Public House, 211 Old Ford Road Jongleurs, Bow Wharf, 221 Grove Road Bow Wharf, Grove Road Gate House, 9 Gunmakers Lane, London Albany Works, Gunmakers Lane Connaught Works, 23 Gunmakers Lane Morpeth Lodge, St Marks Gate 106-128 Cadogan Terrace (even) 70-102 Cadogan Terrace

Highways and Transportation Issues

The Conservation Area is very large, and contains a wide variety of streetscapes. Some streetscapes are one-sided, fronting onto the park, and others are clearly defined by continuous building lines on both sides.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

Original features on residential buildings such as these should be preserved where they exist and reinstated where there is evidence to suggest they have been removed.

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In the south-western quarter around the Approach, expansion or intensification of non- residential uses is discouraged as this would be likely to harm its residential character as described in the Appraisal.

Most houses in the area were built for single family occupation. Where buildings have been subdivided, the restoration of residential buildings to their original form as large houses would enhance the character of the area.

Within all development sites identified in the LDF, designs and masterplans should respect the character of the immediate context and the Conservation Area as a whole, as described in the Appraisal.

Parks and Open Spaces

The Victoria Park Restoration, Development and Management Plan was commissioned by Tower Hamlets in 1989, responding to a general decline in the condition and use of the park, and has since informed a series of improvement works implemented by Council that have dramatically transformed area. We will aim to achieve Green Heritage Site status for these gardens.

Equalities:

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This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

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Publication Mechanism:

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

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The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

Bonner Hall Bridge, Regents Canal

Priority – A (New Entry) Designation – Scheduled Ancient Monument Condition - Poor. Ownership - Local Authority

Summary Early Victorian bridge (1842-1845) over Regent's Canal. Arched bridge in red brick with stone voussoirs. The balustrade on the west side has collapsed taking the cast iron panels and granite setts into the canal.

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Action Proposed to Secure:

To be written after public consultation.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

Victoria Park Conservation Area Page 17 of 17

Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

West India Dock

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

West India Dock Conservation Area Page 1 of 18 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

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1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The West India Dock Conservation Area was designated in November 1982 around the north-west corner of the former West India Docks, historically one of London’s finest secure dock systems. The remaining North Quay warehouses and the historic buildings located around the main dock entrance are the focus of this area. These are the only significant concentration of West India Dock buildings to have survived the Blitz.

History

The small medieval hamlets to the east of the Tower of London, once dependent on milling, agriculture and fishing, grew into maritime villages during the 17th and 18th centuries.

The business needs of London’s merchants were historically serviced from the banks of the Thames. From the early 15th century, small slipways and wharves lined the river for the building, repair and servicing of ships trading with the Port of London. These operations expanded during the 16th & 17th centuries with the growth of shipbuilding, and the associated increase in trade coupled with inadequate riverside facilities led to delays in unloading of ships and the theft of unsecured cargoes piled on quays. Towards the end of the 18th century the West India merchants began a push for the construction of secure, enclosed docks, devoted to the valuable cargoes of the West India Trade.

The project began with the purchase of land on the Isle of Dogs. Here, the marshy soil meant that drainage & flood prevention would be expensive, and the land was therefore cheaper to acquire, and had been one of the last areas in the Borough to be developed. Although Blackwall Dock (constructed by the East India Company in 1612- 14) was the first on the Isle of Dogs, the West India Docks were the first major commercial development in the area.

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The West India Dock Act (1799) initiated the construction of the two large rectangular docks for the West India Company in 1802. The Act also required all rum, coffee and sugar to be unloaded in the West India Dock for 21 years following its construction, and this monopoly over charges would allow the cost of the docks to be recouped.

The West India Docks were the largest of their kind in London at the time, and marked a new era in dock construction. They were lined by operationally efficient, 6-storey warehouses and enclosed within high perimeter walls for security. Constructed between 1800-3, these nine warehouses (of which only two remain) once formed a continuous line for over half a mile along the north quay of the Import Dock, forming an impressive composition.

At the West India docks, the warehouses were designed by Gwilt & Sons – architects for the West India Dock Company. The scheme was originally drawn up by George Dance, Clerk of City Works, for the Isle of Dogs redevelopment (1797) based on a scheme devised for Wapping by Ralph Walker. Walker, a former captain in the West India trade, had developed the idea of a continuous wall of quay-side warehouses.

The warehouses on the north quay of the Import Dock housed sugar and rum, while the south quay was devoted to rum and mahogany. In order to manage customs clearance at the dock, the Board of Excise had insisted on the construction of two separate dock basins, with independent access from each dock to the river. The Import Dock was opened in 1802, and the Export Dock in 1807, with all associated works completed by 1809. Designed by William Jessop, the elegant quay walls of the West India Docks formed the model for others to follow. The Millwall Basins, further south on the Isle of Dogs, were built between 1867-8 to service the bulkier commodities of grain and timber.

Changes in port practices began with the arrival of the railway in 1851 and the introduction of hydraulic machinery in 1854-5. The opening of the Royal Victoria Dock in 1855, and the Royal Albert Dock in 1880, brought with it increasing competition,

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forcing the West India Company to build additional docks further east in Tilbury (1886) and to join forces with the London and St Katherine Dock Co. in 1888.

The West India Docks reached their last incarnation in the 1920s, having been heavily re-modelled to accommodate larger ships following the first world war. They continued to flourish, along with the Millwall Docks, until Second World War bombings destroyed significant areas.

A post-war recovery saw London’s five docks handling a third of Britain’s seaborne trade, however changes in cargo-handing practices finally rendered the East End’s docks uneconomical and port facilities were relocated to container ports in Tilbury, marking the progressive closure of the whole of the London dock system. The closure of the docks resulted in significant job losses for the local community and left many acres of derelict land. This landscape provided the catalyst for the creation of a Strategic Plan by the GLC, designed to encourage job creation and housing choice.

The regeneration of London’s Docklands was entrusted to the London Docklands Development Corporation (LDDC) in 1981, and having achieved the majority of its targets, the responsibility was handed back to the local authorities by the LDDC in 1998.

Character

The West India Dock & Millwall Basins survive as reminders of the most dominant elements of London’s great enclosed Docks, defining the landscape of the Isle of Dogs. Despite being dwarfed by the recent commercial development at Canary Wharf, the Import Dock provides an impressive forecourt to the surviving Grade-I listed Gwilt Warehouses, which represent the last of the multi-storey dock warehouses of the late Georgian period in London. The Dock buildings themselves are the most significant in the Conservation Area, and are characterized by their use of stock brick and stone dressings in a restrained, austere classical style.

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Commercial Road, north of the Conservation Area, was constructed in 1806 to link the West India Docks with the City, and two of the original gate piers to the former Commercial Road Dock entrance survive as remnants of the original dock enclosure. The listed Excise Office, (1807-9) now known as the Dockmaster’s House, was once mirrored by a twin building. The two originally framed the entrance to the docks, but the twin building was demolished for the construction of the London and Blackwall railway.

The northern edge of the dock area was originally bounded by a ditch, a low-railed wall and a high brick wall partly formed by the northern façade of the North Quay warehouses. The garden boundary to the Dockmaster’s House is a restored section of the outer dock wall, otherwise dismantled in 1928-9, and the slope down to the rear garden represents the historic ditch which once surrounded the perimeter wall.

Garford Street was created in 1807 following the opening of the docks. The southern side was lined by a row of constable’s cottages (1802) designed by John Rennie as two pairs and a stand-alone cottage for the sergeant. (They lived in the docks, as did the Dockmasters, to ensure constant supervision of the premises.) The houses were simple, robust, small-scale residential buildings, which were emulated by more recent residential development on the other side of the road. The rear gardens of the Garford Street constable’s offices and the Dockmaster’s House are essential to the setting of the buildings and are protected by the curtilage of the listing.

Riverside House (1887-8) was originally built as the Scandinavian Seaman’s Temperance Home. The later, Queen-Anne styled ‘Grieg House’ (1902-3), was constructed for the officers and is now Grade-II listed.

To the west of the dock entrance were the Cannon Workshops – a large quadrange of historic workshops with the Cooperage at the centre. These buildings are characterized by their simplicity, proportions and low-rise scale, as well as quality of detailing. The carriage arch in the centre of the east elevation is an important feature, built from yellow stock brick with Portland stone dressings. They were some of the first buildings in docklands to be regenerated in 1980-3.

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Recent development in the area has not always been sympathetic to the historic importance of the area. The multi-storey car park and cinema presents a bleak elevation to Hertsmere Road, in stark contrast to the quality of the Grade I listed warehouses opposite. Also, the office development at Hertsmere House does not make a positive contribution to the area. The bulky eaves, flush windows and shrub planting at the front are uncharacteristic of the area. Some recent development has been better, for example the striking design of the new floating footbridge, whose lightness and colour make it a successful accessory to the heavier buildings.

Land Use

Until the 1960s the docks and their associated management, security, transport and workshop functions had been the dominant land use in the area.

The redevelopment of other historic buildings in the Conservation Area has left an interesting mix of commercial, community, residential, office and leisure use. The row of leisure uses along the waterfront has been successful. The high-quality redevelopment of historic buildings included the sensitive conversion of ‘The Gwilts’ West India Dock Warehouses in 1997, providing a home for the Museum of Docklands.

Open Spaces

The principal public open space in the Conservation Area lies between the North Quay warehouses and the Import Dock. This area has been successful as a south-facing, outdoor seating area for the bars and other leisure uses in the ground floor of the warehouses.

The courtyard within the old Cannon workshops is a valuable open space. Although the uses have changed, its scale and proportions are reminders of the historic townscape.

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Scale

Although compromised in recent years by encroaching development of an inappropriate scale, both within and adjacent to the Conservation Area, the dock area is still characterised by the surviving 6-storey historic buildings. The residential buildings are generally no more than 2-3 storeys, although some are higher in the north-west corner of the site.

The former Cannon workshops are single-storey. The historic character of the courtyard depends on this low rise scale.

The northern boundary of the Conservation Area is defined by the viaduct constructed for the London-Blackwall Railway, and contributes to the sense of enclosure and separation from the surrounding development.

Views

Views across the West India Dock towards the warehouse buildings at the north-west of the dock are some of the most important in the area, as they preserve the sense of scale of the historic dock development. Views in and out of the former Cannon Workshops are important as its architecture and proportions retain much of the original character of the area.

Views across the rear garden of the Dockmaster’s House towards Grieg House, otherwise hidden from view at ground level by surrounding buildings, offer some respite from the intensely developed urban landscape of the docklands area.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of West India Dock is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In West India Dock, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Any new development should have regard to national, regional and local planning policy. At the national level, the Planning Act (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas Act) 1990 places a duty on Tower Hamlets to designate conservation areas in “areas of special architectural or historic interest”, and to formulate and publish proposals for the preservation and enhancement of its conservation areas. National policy for planning and the historic environment is set out in Planning Policy Guidance 15 (PPG15). At the regional level, policy 4B.1 of the London Spatial Development Strategy (or London Plan) states that ‘The Mayor will seek to ensure that developments … respect London’s built heritage.’ At the local level, the new Local Development Framework (LDF) of Tower Hamlets states that ‘the Council will protect and enhance the historic environment of the borough’. This is described in detail in policy CP49 of the Core Strategy of the LDF. The whole conservation area is within the Isle of Dogs Area Action Plan, and the area to the south and east of Hertsmere Road lies within the area designated as a major centre. The Limehouse Link tunnel, designated as a strategic route, runs underneath the north-west corner of the area. The frontage of the main range of historic warehouses is designated as a ‘secondary frontage’ within the major centre. Hertsmere House, just outside the Conservation Area, is identified as a development site, and at the time of writing there is a consent for a 63-storey tower on this site

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Grade I

Warehouse and General Offices at Western end of North Quay (including no.4, the corner building) West India Dock wall

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Grade II

Railings to West of main gate at West India Dock and the gate itself (two stone piers) Dockmasters House, 1 Hertsmere Road and the wall in front 10-12 Garford Street 14 Garford Street 16-18 Garford Street Salvation Army Hostel, 20 Garford Street Monument in front of the East gate to Cannon workshops 23-61 Cannon Workshops, 3 Cannon Drive 63-71 Cannon Workshops, 3 Cannon Drive 102-104 Cannon Workshops, 3 Cannon Drive 109-128 Cannon Workshops, 3 Cannon Drive 135-167 Cannon Workshops, 3 Cannon Drive 150 Cannon Workshops, 3 Cannon Drive 182 Cannon Workshops, 3 Cannon Drive

Locally Listed

The road surface of Garford Street

Highways and Transportation Issues

There are a wide variety of streets in this area. On the west side, Westferry Road is a major route carrying traffic in and out of the Isle of Dogs and Canary Wharf. Within the

West India Dock Conservation Area Page 13 of 18 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines area, Hertsmere Road is an important access route to the main buildings in the area. Garford St and Premiere Place are two quieter residential streets.

The draft Crossrail boundary runs underneath the Conservation Area. Appropriate measures should be taken to mitigate any potential risks to the listed buildings in the area from the construction or operation of this link.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

Any new development or refurbishment should not harm the character of the area, as described in the Appraisal. In the north-west corner, developments should respect the low-rise, generally residential character of the area, although mixed-use is identified in the area action plan. In particular, views from inside the courtyard of the historic Cannon works should not be harmed by tall buildings.

The adjacent development site on Hertsmere House has been identified as a development site. Any new proposals for this site should respect the historic and architectural significance of the dock warehouses, and include detailed proposals for a high quality public realm at ground level.

The car park building on Hertsmere Road presents a fairly dead frontage to Hertsmere Road. Options for improving the quality of this frontage should be investigated.

The frontage to Westferry Road on the west side of the area is poor quality. Options should be investigated for improving this frontage.

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Parks and Open Spaces

There are no significant parks in this Conservation Area, although urban trees form an important part of the setting of many listed buildings. The most important open space is the wide promenade along the northern edge of the dock itself.

Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

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Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

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Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs.

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The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

At this time we are not aware of any listed buildings at risk in the conservation area.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

West India Dock Conservation Area Page 18 of 18 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Wapping Wall

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

Wapping Wall Conservation Area Page 1 of 17 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

Wapping Wall Conservation Area Page 2 of 17 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Wapping Wall Conservation Area Page 3 of 17 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Wapping Wall Conservation Area was designated in January 1983 by the London Docklands Development Corporation (LDDC). Wapping Wall encloses the eastern part of the 19th century historic wharf and warehouse development, which form the defining characteristics of this section of London’s Docklands. Wapping Wall itself was named after the tidal defences constructed in 1570-71, and the Docklands heritage has provided the framework for the area’s regeneration.

History

The Thames banks to the east of central London have historically provided ideal conditions for shipping docks. Draining of the marshes and construction of the river defence walls had begun by 1327, encouraging riverside settlement, and by the 16th century both sides of the river were lined with wharf buildings serving the business needs of merchants and a thriving shipbuilding industry. The narrow plots defining the Thames frontage at the time were later amalgamated for the substantial C19 warehouse developments, obliterating many of the historic stairs and alleys that had afforded access to the riverfront for the local population.

The world’s first under-river tunnel was constructed between 1825-43 to the design of Marc Brunel and linked the north bank of the Thames to the south at Wapping Station. Originally opened for use by pedestrians and horse carts ferrying trade, the Thames Tunnel was built to help carry the load from the London Docks. It was eventually adopted in 1865 by the East London Railway to serve goods and passenger trains travelling south under the Thames through to Dover and Brighton.

East of Wapping Lane, the Eastern Dock was added to the original London Dock in 1824-8, later filled-in for housing development following its closure. Shadwell Basin, added from 1828, survives as an open stretch of water, reached by the inner Shadwell Entrance Lock (1858). The (rolling bascule) steel lifting bridge constructed in the 1930s was restored as a fixed bridge by the LDDC in the 1980s, and is one of a

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number of artifacts preserved to tell the story of the Dockland’s operations. By the 1960s, new methods of handling cargoes forced changes and finally the closure of the London Docks in 1968. The industry moved with the container ships to the new ports of Tilbury, Felixstow and Harwich.

There are few surviving industrial buildings in the Docklands. The Wapping Hydraulic Pumping Station is a successful example of the creative recycling of historic buildings, a type of development still encouraged, facilitating the preservation and interpretation of an area’s character and cultural history. Of the five hydraulic pumping stations constructed in London in 1884 to operate lifts and machinery, two were located in the Docklands (Rotherhithe & Wapping). Wapping was the last to supply hydraulic power as a public utility.

In 1980, the LDDC was formed to expedite the regeneration of the London Docklands in response to economic decline in the area. In 1981 the LDDC took over management of 8½ square miles known then as the Docklands Urban Development Area (UDA), located in the Boroughs of Tower Hamlets, Newham and Southwark. The regeneration of the Docklands was initiated primarily for economic and social reasons and created a unique opportunity to conserve the physical heritage. The ambience and historic character of the area was preserved and enhanced by ensuring the sensitive integration of high quality new development.

Having achieved the majority of its targets, the responsibility for London’s Docklands was handed back to the local authorities by the LDDC in 1998.

Character

The riverside features of London’s Docklands contribute to the character and interest of the Thames shoreline. The river walls, historically a hard building edge protecting the inland marshes from the river’s tidal flow, are now characterized by a river-face of substantial wharf buildings, interrupted by wharves, jetties, and small-scale inlets between buildings and stairs which provided access to the riverfront for passengers and watermen.

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Draw Docks, dry docks, entrance locks and the associated machinery & equipment including bridges, cranes, pumps and rails etc. all contribute to the character and historic interpretation of the area’s industrial past. The organic development of the area is evidenced in the different projections of riverside buildings, some structures sitting forward of those adjacent, with a mix of masonry materials, predominantly brick, and jetties built of timber and iron.

Wapping Wall Conservation Area includes one of London’s finest stretches of 19th century riverside wharf and warehouse developments. Metropolitan Wharf, which encroaches some 40ft into the river and supports a mix of uses, Great Jubilee Wharf and New Crane Wharf (following the post-medieval river wall line) form a continuous wall between the street and the Thames, retaining much of the character of the Docklands heyday.

The principles for redevelopment established by the LDDC are still largely followed by Tower Hamlets. Recycling of the remaining historic building stock is preferred to its demolition and redevelopment. Any new development should relate closely to the urban qualities of the existing environment, constructed in materials traditional to the area.

Land Use By the 18th century, most wealthy householders had moved away from the riverfront leaving the industrial and supporting commercial uses to define the townscape. The historic mix of uses associated with this once vibrant mercantile quarter were accommodated in smaller buildings, later displaced by the 19th century warehouse redevelopment along the riverfront. The associated street-level activity was further diluted by the residential redevelopment of the area which followed the closure of the docks in the 1960s.

Following their colonisation by artists as studios in the late 60s and 70s the vacant warehouse buildings were converted to residential use. This work was supported by the LDDC, as published in its development framework ‘The Future for Wapping’ (1983). At the time, the majority of the existing housing stock in the area was in local

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authority ownership and an increase in private housing (including 40% affordable housing offered to locals) was considered key to creating a more balanced community. The subsequent redevelopment now sees an almost entirely residential use dominating the Conservation Area, with a few small commercial uses retained at street level. The ‘Prospect of Whitby’ (c.1520), named after a boat that moored there in the 18th century, is one of the few public houses to survive along the riverfront and represents a valuable reminder of the many public houses which used to serve the dock community.

Open Spaces The impact of Wapping Wall’s ‘gun-barrel’ corridors is increased with their juxtaposition against open areas located adjacent the Conservation Area.

The eastern boundary is defined by the Edwardian Rotherhithe Tunnel vent shaft, which sits within King Edward Memorial Park. The park was opened to the public in 1922 and occupies the site of the former Shadwell Fish Market Estate. The park’s riverside promenade is interrupted by Shadwell Pierhead and, although reinstated in front of Prospect Wharf, the riverside Thames Walk otherwise follows the historic traffic route along Wapping Wall and Wapping High Streets.

Public access to the river’s shorefront has also been integrated into the redeveloped Prospect Wharf piers, however many of the historic stairs which once afforded public access to the riverbank are now closed ostensibly for public safety. As most are protected by Act of Parliament, their careful reopening is under consideration. Additional security measures may be necessary.

Scale The western boundary of the Conservation Area is marked by Wapping Underground Station, linking London’s first under-river access to the south bank. The tunnel’s vent shaft and surrounding buildings contribute to the character of the Conservation Area, their relatively low scale providing visual relief from the corridor of buildings extending either side along Wapping High Street.

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In summary, the river side of the two principal streets are defined by the substantial warehouse developments. On the land side, smaller scaled buildings at the boundaries of the Conservation Area open out to vistas over parks and across basins, providing a transitional townscape between Wapping Wall and adjacent areas to the north and east.

Views Glimpses of the riverfront over historic stairs are still afforded through breaks in the barrier of buildings lining Wapping Wall, preserved as reminders of former public access to the river banks, to be re-opened once more security is added.

The Wapping Wall street corridor opens-out as it curves around the boundary wall of Wapping Pumping Station onto Garnet Street. The view to the north is framed by the restored iron bascule bridge, and to the south, the Prospect of Whitby pub steps down in height to expose an open sky at the riverside entrance to the Thames walk. The Shadwell Basins provide a clear space over which the historic church spires of St Paul’s and St George in the East can be viewed, maintaining a visual link between the riverfront and the neighbourhoods to the north.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

Wapping Wall Conservation Area Page 9 of 17 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Wapping Wall is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Wapping Wall, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Grade II*

Thames Tunnel London Hydraulic Pumping Station, Wapping Wall, London 37 Wapping Wall, London,

Grade II

Wapping Station Prusoms Island, 135 Wapping High Street 16 New Crane Place

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Lower Oliver’s Wharf, 80 Wapping Wall Great Jubilee Wharf, 78 Wapping Wall Jubilee Wharf, 76 Wapping Wall Metropolitan Wharf, 61-75 Wapping Wall Prospect Of Whitby Public House, 57 Wapping Wall Shadwell Dock Stairs Air Shaft to the Rotherhithe Tunnel

Highways and Transportation Issues

The quality of the streetscape, the surface materials, street furniture and other features are all integral parts of the character of conservation areas. Any work carried out should respect this historic character. In this area, Wapping High St and Wapping Wall are the most important streets, and benefit from significant expanses of historic floorscape, particularly in the east of the area. Their character is described in detail in the Area Statement, and new development should respect this character and enhance it when possible.

The East London Line runs through the western edge of the Conservation Area, stopping at Wapping Station before entering the historic Thames Tunnel.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

The street environment of Wapping High Street is at the heart of the whole area, and there is potential to improve the quality of the streetscape. In particular, the street lighting, bus stops, signage and road surfacing at present do not respect the historic value of the Conservation Area.

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Measures to protect the coherence and harmony of each refurbished warehouse building should be investigated. At the consultation stage, we would like to ask residents and other members of the community what kind of protection they feel would be appropriate. For example, if all windows on a building are the same colour, should there be restrictions on painting windows different colours. Also, should additions such as burglar alarm panels and satellite dishes be restricted?

Re-opening of the river steps, with additional safety precautions, including lighting should also follow.

Parks and Open Spaces

There are few open spaces in the Wapping Wall Conservation Area. The largest are the riverside spaces around the Shadwell Dock Entrance, including King Edward Memorial Park, which contains two listed structures.

Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

a strong spirit of community and good race relations in Tower Hamlets.

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to get rid of prejudice, discrimination and victimisation within the communities we serve and our workforce to make sure that the borough’s communities and our workforce are not discriminated against or bullied for any reason, including reasons associated with their gender, age, ethnicity, disability, sexuality or religious belief.

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

This consultation draft document is available on our website at:

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It is also available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores in the Borough. Please call if you would like to know where to find a copy, or if you have any other questions.

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

If listed buildings are not maintained in good repair, then the Council can step in to ensure that relevant repairs are carried out. In some circumstances, the Council itself

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may undertake essential repairs and recover the cost from the owner. The Council has powers of compulsory purchase, if necessary to protect Listed Buildings.

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

Shadwell Dock Stairs The Highway E1

Priority – C (C) Designation – Listed Grade II Condition Poor. Ownership Unknown

Summary

Old kerb brick and stone slipway to river. In need of repair. The stairs were repaired by the LDDC and proposals have been submitted for repair of the slipway.

Action Proposed to Secure:

To be written after public consultation.

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Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

St Paul’s Shadwell

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

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Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

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1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The St Paul’s Church Conservation Area was designated in January 1983 by the London Docklands Development Corporation (LDDC). It focuses on the 1820s Grade- II* listed church and grounds, which form a dramatic backdrop to the Shadwell Basin. St Paul’s Church, the Church House and the associated railings, boundary walls and gates form a group with adjacent buildings on the southern edge of The Highway.

History

Formerly known as Chadwelle, the riverside settlement took its name from a mineral spring dedicated to St.Chad in the Sun Tavern fields. It remained virtually uninhabited until the 17th century, when it then became the centre for marine-related activities. The rapid growth of Shadwell between 1630-50, brought with it a need for its own place of worship. In 1656, a Chapel-of-Ease was constructed to service its 8,000 inhabitants, many of whom were mariners, watermen and lightermen. In 1664, the building was altered when the progressive speculator Thomas Neale inherited an interest in Shadwell. This was later reconstructed as St Paul’s Church in 1669, as a result of a community petition to Parliament calling for the creation of a new parish. When established the following year, Shadwell became the first parish to be created from St Dunstan’s Stepney since Whitechapel in 1338. Named after St Paul’s Cathedral, the church was consecrated on the 12th March 1671.

During the 18th century, St Paul’s became known as the ‘mariner’s church’, with some 75 sea captains and their wives buried in the grounds between 1725-95. Other notable persons associated with the church include Captain James Cook, whose eldest son was baptised there in 1763. Also Jane Rudolph, mother of Thomas Jefferson was baptised at the church in 1718. Between 1770-1895, John Wesley preached at St Paul’s on occasion.

The construction of the second of London’s enclosed docks in 1805 transformed Shadwell and its adjacent riverside communities. Reclamation of large areas of developed land displaced the local population, over-crowding the surviving inhabitants

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into the remaining houses. At the same time, St Paul’s was in need of urgent works. Its implementation was hindered by legislation requiring an Act of Parliament to enable new Anglican churches to raise rates for this purpose.

Shadwell was no longer the home of sea captains, and a new church was required to accommodate the growing population labouring in the docks and on the river. In 1810, a local campaign begun to rebuild the church, however this was opposed by local rate payers, including the East India Dock Company. The church was eventually closed to parishioners in 1811. A special Act was eventually passed in 1817 and the construction of the church (extensively re-styled with a Baroque tower added), schools and rectory followed in 1820-2. These were to the designs of John Walters, in celebration of the country’s victory at Waterloo.

The school, founded in 1811 for the religious and moral education of the parish was constructed in the style of a late-Victorian terrace. It survives as the earliest example of its type, marking a turning-point in educational design.

In the 1840s, the London Dock Company acquired half of the churchyard by compulsory purchase for the construction of Shadwell New Basin. During construction in 1858, the structural stability of the church was compromised by the adjacent excavations, requiring heavy buttressing of the Churchyard’s retaining wall. The Shadwell New Basin, constructed in 1854-8 by J.M Rendel was amalgamated with the Old Basin (built in 1828-32 by J.R Palmer), adopting larger locks and an innovative quay wall design. Further land reclamation associated with the construction of the new docks saw the local population of Shadwell in 1851 reduced from 12,000 to 9000. Existing housing rapidly deteriorated into slums, until 1926, when clearance schemes saw everything levelled between Wapping High Street and the London Docks.

St Paul’s Church survived the Blitz with only minor damage, but all parish records were destroyed.

Improvements to a number of churches lining the main thoroughfare into the docklands were implemented by the LDDC in the 1980s. St Paul’s church was

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restored and its churchyard landscaped, with public access to the terraced quayside of Shadwell Basin provided through a new opening in the dock wall. The brick crypt and burial vaults were converted into a community centre in 1983-4.

Character

During the 16th to 18th centuries, the construction of housing, schools, churches and market gardens increased in parallel with the growth of shipping and shipbuilding along the Thames. This reflected the subsequent rise in the population of the riverside hamlets east of the city. Little of this remains, and the St Paul’s Conservation Area protects a small pocket of historic townscape which has survived the land reclamation, slum clearance and post-war reconstruction schemes. This has since transformed the character of the Shadwell area.

During the heyday of the London Dock system, the church grounds were bounded on each side by warehouses which lined the Shadwell Basin. The docklands environment was transformed by the construction of new speculative housing development (1985- 7), part of the docklands regeneration managed by the LDDC. The Conservation Area is centred around the St Paul’s churchyard, its associated buildings, boundary walls and railings. The listed buildings in the area form a group, with a small row of single- bay cottages (just east of the Conservation Area), originally accessed from an alley off the Shadwell Basin. Bounded by the Shadwell Dock to the south, the Conservation Area extends west along The Highway to include the Grade-II listed Georgian rectory, concluding an architecturally interesting historic streetscape. The former church schools, located at the western end of the church yard, are also listed.

Maintenance of the surviving urban maritime character of the area is of principal concern, and demolition of buildings within the Conservation Area will not be permitted. There is little scope for new development within the Conservation Area and any redevelopment of adjacent sites will be assessed according to its impact on the setting of the listed buildings.

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St Paul’s Conservation Area lies in an area of ‘archaeological importance or potential’. Evidence of Roman settlement in Shadwell has been found along the line of the old roman road (later known as Ratcliffe Highway). This road followed the river bluff from just north of the Tower of London to the Roman outport of Ratcliffe.

Open Space

The churchyard and gardens were established in 1656 as part of the Chapel of Ease. The churchyard was improved by the Metropolitan Pubic Garden Association when it was laid out as a garden for recreation in 1886. Many of the headstones, chest tombs and monuments were retained and enclosed with railings at the time. The 19th century railings to The Highway were restored by English Heritage in the 1980s. Shaded by notable plane trees, the churchyard is now used exclusively by the Green Gables Montessori Nursery, housed in the refurbished crypt.

Shadwell Basin was redeveloped for recreational use as part of the Docklands regeneration in the 1980s. A broad gravelled terrace along the northern edge of the Basin was created to reveal the dock wall. This provides access through a gateway to the churchyard of the Shadwell parish church and beyond to The Highway.

The Shadwell and Hermitage Basins and the channel that once linked them still exists despite the London Docks water system closing down in 1969. The Eastern Basin was filled-in and planted-out as ‘Wapping Wood’ in the 1980s, as part of the regeneration of the Docklands implemented by the LDDC. It retains a visual link with Shadwell Basin along Benson Quay. King Edward Memorial Park to the east was developed on the site of the former Shadwell Fish Market Estate. It extends the connection between the Conservation Area and the River Thames.

Scale

The prevailing character of the area is defined by the various modestly-scaled residential developments. These have replaced the historic maritime buildings of the London Docks, which used to form the context for the church and its rectory. The

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Conservation Area occupies a prominent location above Shadwell Basin, dominated by the spire of St Paul’s Church.

Views

Panoramic views towards the Conservation Area from Shadwell Basin exist along locks that once separated Shadwell from the Eastern Basin (to the west) and the river (to the east). Projecting above the tree canopy of the churchyard, the Baroque spire of St Paul’s Church provides an enduring local and historical landmark. This focal point is now surrounded by 20th century housing development. The church itself forms a dramatic backdrop to the redeveloped Shadwell Basin.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of St Paul’s Shadwell is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In St Paul’s Shadwell, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Ecclesiastical Grade B (II*)

St Pauls Church, The Highway

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Grade II

St Pauls Institute, 302 The Highway 298 The Highway Iron Railings, Wall and Iron Gates of St Paul’s Church.

Highways and Transportation Issues

The Highway is the dominant road in the area, running just outside the Conservation Area to the north. Options could be investigated for calming the speed of this road in deference to the historic importance of the church, and to improve the quality of the street environment.

Within the churchyard and the rest of the Conservation Area, the quality of the public realm, the surface materials, street furniture and other features are all integral parts of the character of conservation areas. Any work carried out should respect this historic character. Anyone involved in development which impacts on public spaces should refer to the Council’s street design guide and English Heritage’s ‘Streets for All’ document. The ongoing cost of maintenance should also be considered carefully.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

There is little scope for new development within the Conservation Area, and any redevelopment of adjacent sites will be assessed according to its impact on the setting of the listed buildings.

A main thoroughfare running past the north of the churchyard has been part of the character of the church for over two hundred years. However, as mentioned above, the quality of the street environment of the Highway affects the character of the

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Conservation Area, and it would be an improvement if traffic could be slowed down in deference to the historic value of the Conservation Area.

The most visible part of the Conservation Area is the church spire, arguably one of the most elegant in the Borough. Views to this spire enhance places at a considerable distance from the Conservation Area, and should be protected where appropriate.

Parks and Open Spaces

The churchyard is now used exclusively by the Green Gables Montessori nursery, and there are no other parks or open spaces in this area.

Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

a strong spirit of community and good race relations in Tower Hamlets. to get rid of prejudice, discrimination and victimisation within the communities we serve and our workforce

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Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

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The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

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Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

At this time we are not aware of any listed buildings at risk in the Conservation Area.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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Boundary Estate

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

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Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

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1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Boundary Estate Conservation Area was designated in December 1985. Situated in the north west of the London Borough of Tower Hamlets, the Boundary Street Estate was built by the London County Council (LCC) at the turn of last century following one of the first slum clearances in the east end. Boundary Estate Conservation Area covers Arnold Circus and the surrounding social housing estate in an area formally known as “The Nichol”, and lies east of Shoreditch High Street and north of old Bishopsgate Goods Yard.

The Boundary Street Estate was built between 1894 and 1900 after the LCC had taken control over social housing in London in 1889. The estate was the first to be developed by the authority and comprises 20 blocks of 5 storey flats; two schools (one still in operation, workshops and commercial shops, all built around a central circus.

History

By 1890, the terraces located in the Boundary Estate area formed one of the east end’s many slums. The 1890 Housing of the Working Classes Act gave the local government the power to demolish slum housing and as a result the LCC invested in the area, providing new social housing to accommodate the growing population arriving in London during the Industrial Revolution. “The Old Nichol”, also known as the “Jago” was home to 5,710 people. This provided the target number to be re- housed in the new LCC estate following the slum clearance.

The original intention was to rebuild the area as a series of rectangular plots, however under the supervision of architect Owen Fleming, a new layout was proposed by the Housing of the Working Classes branch of the LCC. Based around a central open area (Arnold Circus, a circular raised garden within a ring road) from which seven tree- lined streets radiated, this seven-pointed design echoed those built in other areas in London such as ‘Seven Dials’ in Covent Garden. Planned as free-standing blocks, separated by open spaces for light and fresh air, each building was designed for its

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situation, rather than the architectural uniformity typical of terraces and other existing social housing estates of the time (eg.19th Century Peabody Trust). The architectural language of the Arts and Crafts movement was adopted as the common theme. The estate also accommodated a work/live community, with small workshops included in the design to promote local business and employment.

The Boundary Street Estate was recognised as an important step forward in the history of social housing. HRH Edward, Prince of Wales, opened the estate in 1900 and tried to capture the importance of the estate as a model for future similar projects in his opening speech:

“It is not, perhaps, too much to assume that everyone who takes any interest in the improvement of homes for the working classes has heard of the scheme undertaken by the London County Council…for the clearance and rebuilding of the huge slum in Bethnal Green, known as the Boundary Street area.”

Character

The character of the Boundary Estate Conservation Area is defined by the semi- formal, late 19th-century housing estate, which is made up of twenty (grade-II listed) purpose-built housing blocks. The majority of the blocks are five stories high, each individually designed to reflect its position within the estate and its relationship to its surroundings. The raised central garden, known as Boundary Gardens is the centre point of the estate, with the housing blocks arranged on seven unequally placed streets radiating from this focal point. Calvert Street, the original main road leading from Shoreditch High Street was widened and extended to provide a grander entrance to the estate. The tree-lined Calvert Avenue was remodelled with shops facing onto the road and workshops to the rear. Today, these are still in existence, many with their original shop fronts.

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The Boundary Estate Conservation Area is of special architectural and historical interest to the Borough, and any future development should endeavour to enhance the existing historic character and appearance.

Land Use

The prevailing character of the area is residential, with commercial uses confined to Calvert Avenue. The Council will encourage the retention of the workshops and commercial units as these uses contribute to the community character of the Conservation Area. A change of use for these buildings to residential would be detrimental to the special character.

Scale

The scale of the area is roughly uniform throughout the estate. The 4 or 5 story housing blocks are the main buildings in the Conservation Area and dominate the character, however there are smaller, more modest workshop and service buildings that break up the skyline.

Open Spaces

The main open space of the Boundary Estate Conservation Area is the grade-II listed Boundary Gardens. The bandstand, built in 1912 forms the centre-point of the estate. The roads radiating from Arnold Circus are planted with mature trees. There are over 50 tree preservation orders on trees within the Boundary Street Estate. The open areas between the housing blocks were designed to ensure “every living room received sunlight at some point of the day”. These areas provide an important breathing space between the buildings and provide a play area for children.

The ironwork on the Boundary Street Conservation Area forms an important part of the estate as a whole in the form of railings, gates and balconies. The Council will require traditional railings, ironwork and front boundary walls to be retained. New street furniture, including railings, bollards and street signs added to the Conservation Area should respect the character of the existing traditional railings and ironwork.

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Views

“If a line is drawn from the sill of any window at an angle of 45º, it is clear of all obstruction from adjacent buildings”. This was part of the original concept of the estate and to a large extent the views in the Boundary Estate have retained this feature. The views around Arnold Circus from the bandstand once would have looked down onto the radial roads, The view from the bandstand, along Calvert Avenue towards Shoreditch High Street is an important one.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Boundary Estate is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Boundary Estate, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Any new development should have regard to national, regional and local planning policy.

At the national level, the Planning Act (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas Act) 1990 places a duty on Tower Hamlets to designate conservation areas in “areas of special architectural or historic interest”, and to formulate and publish proposals for the preservation and enhancement of its conservation areas. National policy for planning and the historic environment is set out in Planning Policy Guidance 15 (PPG15). At the regional level, policy 4B.1 of the London Spatial Development Strategy (or London Plan) states that ‘The Mayor will seek to ensure that developments … respect London’s built heritage.’ At the local level, the new Local Development Framework (LDF) of Tower Hamlets states that ‘the Council will protect and enhance the historic environment of the borough’. This is described in detail in policy CP49 of the Core Strategy of the LDF. The western edge of the Conservation Area is the border with the London Borough of Hackney. Any management activities should be coordinated with their City Fringe Action Plan. The area lies within the Weavers Sub-Area of the City Fringe Area Action Plan. This plan identifies the area as predominantly residential in character, but with small employment uses scattered through the area. Two development sites are identified to the south of the area, and most of it lies within the strategic views consultation area. Nearly every major building is listed at Grade II, and the Boundary Gardens in the centre are a Listed Park and Garden.

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Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Grade II

Bandstand at Boundary Street Garden, Arnold Circus Iron Railings and Overthrows at Boundary Street Garden, Arnold Circus 4-5 Virginia Road Marlow House, Arnold Circus Marlow Workshops, Arnold Circus Virginia Primary School, Arnold Circus Area railings at nos. 35 to 49, Arnold Circus Chertsey House, Arnold Circus Sunbury House, Swanfield Street Sunbury Workshops, Swanfield Street Taplow House, Palissy Street Hurley House, Arnold Circus Culham House, Rochelle Street Sonning House, Swanfield Street Henley House, Swanfield Street Walton House, Montclare Street Iron Railings between Henley House and Walton House, Old Nichol Street Cookham House, Montclare Street Porters’ House (Former Laundry), Montclare Street Rochelle Street Primary School, Arnold Circus Iron Railings at Rochelle Street Primary School, Arnold Circus Rochelle Street Primary School House, Arnold Circus Playground Wall at Rochelle Street Primary School Sandford House, Arnold Circus Clifton House, Club Row Molesey House, Camlet Street Iffley House, Arnold Circus Laleham House, Camlet Street Hedsor House, Ligonier Street Benson House, Ligonier Street

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Iron railings, Gate and Gate Piers between Laleham House and Hedsor House, Old Nichol Street Abingdon House, Boundary Street Wargrave House, Navarre Street Shiplake House, Arnold Circus Walker House, 6-8 Boundary Street

Highways and Transportation Issues

Despite the relatively high density of development, the streets have a quiet, residential feel, with some on-street parking. There is potential for improvement by reducing the quantity of highways engineering – for example the ‘cattle pen’ pedestrian barriers on the central circus may not be necessary. Also, alternatives to the vehicle barriers on Palissy St and elsewhere, which were more in keeping with the character of the area, could be investigated. Better cycle parking could also benefit the area.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

Arts and Crafts architecture can sometimes be quite tolerant to sympathetic additions due to its asymmetry and composition from different elements. However, in the case of the Boundary Estate, the symmetrical compositions of the facades and the tight,

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systematic organisation of blocks around the Circus creates a coherent urban character with very limited scope for new development.

Two sites to the south of the Conservation Area between Old Nichol St, Redchurch St, Club Road and Boundary St have been identified as sites of potential development. Any development on these sites should respect the character of the Boundary Estate, and also endeavour to provide active frontages to the street.

As discussed above, there is potential for improvement to the street environment. In addition to the suggestions above, it could be investigated whether the chain-link fencing in front of the primary school could be replaced with railings in character with the gardens in the centre. A public realm audit and strategy for the area could help identify and prioritize specific improvements. The large semi-public open spaces in the interior of the residential blocks are a consequence of the typology of the boundary estate. Some of these spaces have been improved, for example with a children’s play area, while there is potential for improvement in others.

Within the Conservation Area, significant amounts of York Stone paving have been retained. Careful maintenance of this characterful element of the street scene will be pursued and where possible and appropriate supplemented.

The reintroduction of road setts to match or complement the original, for the whole Conservation Area, is a long term objective.

Parks and Open Spaces

Arnold Circus is the public space at the heart of the scheme, and is in urgent need of repair and maintenance. The green areas are unkept and overgrown, the railings are damaged, and surfaces have been vandalized. The Grade II-listed bandstand, an important and unifying feature of the space, is on the Buildings at Risk register. Some roof tiles are missing or damaged and the timber has been damaged and defaced.

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Other open spaces and gardens are likely to be of historic value, and the Conservation department should be consulted on any proposed improvement works.

Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

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Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

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Enforcement Strategy:

Appropriate enforcement, with the support of the community, is essential to protect the area’s character. The Council will take prompt action against those who carry out unauthorised works to listed buildings, or substantial or complete demolition of buildings within a Conservation Area. Unauthorised work to a listed Building is a criminal offence and could result in a fine and/or imprisonment. Likewise, unauthorised substantial or complete demolition of a building within a Conservation Area is also illegal. It is therefore essential to obtain Listed Building Consent or Conservation Area Consent as appropriate before works begin.

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Boundary Estate Conservation Area Page 16 of 17 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Listed Buildings at Risk:

Arnold Circus Bandstand and Railings Arnold Circus E2

Priority – C (C) Designation – Listed Grade II, Conservation Area, Registered Park and Garden Grade II Condition Poor. Ownership Local Authority

Summary

Bandstand 1899. The railings are corroding and causing the stonework plinths to spall. Scheme for repair of bandstand and surrounding park being developed by London Borough of Tower Hamlets and local residents.

Action Proposed to Secure:

To be written after public consultation.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

Boundary Estate Conservation Area Page 17 of 17

Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Ford Square Sidney Square

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

Ford Square Sidney Square Conservation Area Page 1 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

Ford Square Sidney Square Conservation Area Page 2 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Ford Square Sidney Square Conservation Area Page 3 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Ford Square and Sidney Square Conservation Area was designated in December 1985. Bounded by Cavell Street, Stepney Way and Clark Street, the Conservation Area contains two areas of open space, namely Ford Square and Sidney Square, surrounded by residential terrace housing. The Conservation Area contains a series of locally listed buildings along Cavell Street and Ford Square as well as Grade II listed terraces on Ashfield Street and surrounding Sidney Square.

History

A mixture of early 19th century survivals and post World War II rebuilding exists to the western part of central Stepney. Both Ford Square and Sidney Square date from the early 19th century, and were built up by 1839. Much of the original fabric survives in key positions commanding views of the area. Cavell Street ran south from Whitechapel Road and links into Ford Square.

Terraced housing on the east and west side of Sidney Square remains from the 1820s development, with 1990s imitations to the north terrace. Sidney Square divides the Sidney Street Estate into two parts. This was the Borough of Stepney’s first major post-war effort covering the area between Sidney Street and Jubilee Street.

Character

The residential terraces surrounding both Ford Square and Sidney Square defines the original early 19th century three storey and basement scale, generally with ground floor windows and arched doorways. Grade II listed terraces surround Sidney Square and along the street to its west at 84-98 Ashfield Street. This row of terrace houses, of 1826-7, each of two bays, have stucco fronts each with keyed arches over windows and doors within rusticated ground floors. This terrace forms an impressive composition, unusual in lower-class housing of the early 19th century, linking the formal layouts of Sidney and Ford Squares. The Grade II listed terraces flanking the

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western and eastern edges of Sidney Square at 1-9 and 18-25 Sidney Square are early 19th century housing of stock brick with coped parapets. Locally listed terraces surround Ford Square to the north, south and west. 16-19 Ford Square and 29-33 Ford Square are dated late 18th century and Georgian in style, with rendered masonry walls and flat roofs. The Ford Square and Sidney Square Conservation Area also encloses early 19th century Georgian terraces at 67–81 Cavell Street to the west of the Conservation Area.

Land Use

The land use character of the area is entirely residential in nature, and this land use is essential to the character of the open spaces within this area.

Scale

The existing scale of the area is predominantly low-rise, with the terraced housing ranging between 2-3 storeys plus basement.

Open Space

The Conservation Area is defined by its two open spaces, namely Ford Square and Sidney Square. The centralised open spaces have a sense of enclosure with rows of terraces surrounding the squares. These are considered as two important formal elements in the urban landscape and this is reflected in their protection against development above ground by the London Squares Preservation Act of 1931.

Views

Long views in the Conservation Area run along Newark Street, Ashfield Street and Clark Street, highlighting the repetition and rhythm of the continuous terrace housing. Other views exist around Ford Square and Sidney Square towards the open spaces and also to the listed strips of terrace housing.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Ford Square and Sidney Square is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Ford Square Sidney Square, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Any new development should have regard to national, regional and local planning policy:

Any new development should have regard to national, regional and local planning policy. At the national level, the Planning Act (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas Act) 1990 places a duty on Tower Hamlets to designate conservation areas in “areas of special architectural or historic interest”, and to formulate and publish proposals for the preservation and enhancement of its conservation areas. National policy for planning and the historic environment is set out in Planning Policy Guidance 15 (PPG15). At the regional level, policy 4B.1 of the London Spatial Development Strategy (or London Plan) states that ‘The Mayor will seek to ensure that developments … respect London’s built heritage.’ Both squares are designated as London Squares, and are protected by the London Squares Preservation Act of 1931. English Heritage has published information about their campaign to promote London Squres, which can be accessed online at this url: http://www.english- heritage.org.uk/upload/pdf/campaign_for_london_squares.pdf At the local level, the new Local Development Framework (LDF) of Tower Hamlets states that ‘the Council will protect and enhance the historic environment of the borough’. This is described in detail in policy CP49 of the Core Strategy of the LDF. The western fringes of the Conservation Area fall within the outer boundaries of the Whitechapel Masterplan. The LDF proposes a cycle route to run across the northern edge of the Conservation Area.

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Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Grade II

84-98 Ashfield Street (even) 1-9 Sidney Square 25 Sidney Square

Locally Listed Building

67-81 Cavell Street (odd) 29-33 Ford Square 16-19 Ford Square

Highways and Transportation Issues

The design and maintenance of streets in this area is challenging because of the relatively high residential density, and the demand for parking space. A balance has to be struck which meets the needs of all users of the street and avoids dominance by cars.

Works by statutory services (gas, electricity, water etc) have the potential to damage historic ground surfaces or ancient underground structures. Many of the houses in this Conservation Area have vaults under the pavements, and early consultation with the conservation department is encouraged for any works.

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Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

The character of the squares as described in the appraisal, and particularly their coherence in height, pattern and detail, should be conserved or enhanced by any new development in the area.

Where exceptionally coherent terraces exist, residents should be consulted on whether they would support stricter planning controls on permitted development in the area, in order to preserve the character.

There is potential for redevelopment at the south-west corner of Ford Square, where appropriate, sensitive new development could complete the terrace enclosing the southern side of Ford Square. Also, the potential for improving soft landscaping in Ford Square could be investigated.

Ways of improving the public realm could be investigated – for example more appropriate street lighting, improvements to the parks and gardens, more discreet road signposting and ways of tidying up on-street refuse collection. Setts could be re- introduced to the roads around Ford and Sidney Squares, and Ashfield Street connecting them.

Consideration should be given to extending the Conservation Area to include Woollon House on the south side of Sidney Square. Although the building itself is comparatively modern, it still plays an important role in defining the south edge to the square and contributing to its spatial character.

Parks and Open Spaces

Ford Square and Sidney Square themselves are the two main public spaces in the area. Any improvements to the two squares should respect the character of the areas, as described in the appraisal, while still meeting today’s needs eg. children’s play parks. They are both important examples of London residential squares, and features such as the mature trees, and perimeter railings should be strictly protected.

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Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

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Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

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Enforcement Strategy:

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Ford Square Sidney Square Conservation Area Page 13 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Listed Buildings at Risk:

At this time we are not aware of any listed buildings at risk in the Conservation Area.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

Ford Square Sidney Square Conservation Area Page 14 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

All Saints Poplar

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

All Saints Church, Poplar Conservation Area Page 1 of 17 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

All Saints Church, Poplar Conservation Area Page 2 of 17 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

All Saints Church, Poplar Conservation Area Page 3 of 17 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The All Saints Conservation Area was designated in February 1986. It focuses on the 1820s Grade-II* listed church and grounds, its rectory, and extends to the south to enclose a small group of pleasant early 19th century residential streets and listed buildings. The church forms a group with two listed terraces.

History

The original hamlet of Poplar, and the historic docks at Blackwall, lay to the south of this Conservation Area along what is now Poplar High Street. The population began to grow rapidly after the construction of the West India Docks at the start of the 19th century.

The East India Dock Road was constructed 1806-12 to improve communication between the City and the newly constructed East India Docks north of Blackwall. The Survey of London describes the development of this road in detail.

Poplar had been part of the medieval parish of Stepney. In 1813, the Improvement Act of Parliament reformed the civil administration of Poplar and Blackwall, and prompted an initiative to create a separate parish of Poplar, with its own parish church. Land was assembled for this purpose, including the purchase of 2 acres of land owned by Ann Newby between Poplar High Street and East India Dock Road.

A budget of £20,000 was set, and designs were invited for the new church. The architect Charles Hollis won the competition, and the construction contract was awarded to the builder Thomas Morris in 1821. Although the church and land would be paid for by the church rate, a loan for construction was provided by two local men – John Stock and George Green, the prominent local shipbuilder and philanthropist.

The churchyard which exists today was laid out using the constraints of Bow Lane to the east, and East India Dock Road to the north. To complete the rectangle, Montague

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Street was laid out to the south, and on the west side Newby Street was extended north to East India Dock Road.

Montague Place was divided into 12 residential building lots and sold in two parts in 1823 and 1826. Houses were constructed soon afterwards, beginning to create the residential enclosure to the churchyard which can still be seen in part today.

The northern part of Newby Place was laid out when the churchyard was constructed, forming the western edge of the churchyard. This was chosen as the location for the new rectory, which was designed by Charles Hollis and built in 1822-3. Newby Place would accommodate several civic buildings, starting with a Fire-engine house in 1822 – one of Poplar’s new responsibilities as a parish. Growth in the area continued at a rapid pace. A regular coach service from this area to the City along East India Dock Road was started in 1827. A school was built in 1846, but was rebuilt in 1870 along with a new Town Hall. Lastly, a Parish Institute was built in 1910.

The area’s proximity to the docks meant that it was seriously damaged by wartime bombing. In 1917, in one of the few air raids on London of that war, the church was slightly damaged and some windows needed replacing. Two months before this attack, 18 primary school children had been killed in an earlier bomb attack, which became known as the ‘Poplar Outrage’. A memorial to the children was installed in the churchyard.

The Town Hall was hit by incendiary bombs in 1940, during the Second World War, and what remained of the building was demolished later. The Church itself survived the Blitz of 1940, but in March 1945 a V2 rocket hit the north end of Bazely Street, requiring a major reconstruction of the east end of the church. The Parish Institute survived the earlier bombing, thanks to water brought in from the nearby Poplar Baths but it was eventually demolished in 1961-3 to make way for the construction of Discovery House.

The area of housing to the east of Bazely Street was comprehensively redeveloped with modern housing, and the new approach road to the Blackwall Tunnel.

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All Saints continues to play an important role in the life of the area today.

Character

The churchyard is a large garden enclosed by railings and dominated by the landmark church in the centre. The square is enclosed on three sides by streets, largely residential in character, and by the major East India Dock Road to the north.

All Saints Church itself makes an essential contribution to the architectural and civic identity of Poplar and its spire, approx 190ft high, is a significant landmark in the area. The church was built with a low granite plinth and faced in white Portland Stone. Designed to be seen from all directions, the sides have an austere, classical appearance with two rows of five windows, and the main entrance to the west is marked by a pediment with four columns.

The residential buildings around the square were built from stock brick in a simple, late-Georgian architectural style. The most important surviving buildings are the listed terraces on Montague Place and Bazely Street, and the Rectory on Newby Place.

The Montague Place frontage includes eight surviving terraced houses which form a harmonious group, despite subtle variations of height, material and fenestration. When the land for these houses was sold, a covenant required that only an open railing or steps to the houses could be built on a strip of land 6-ft wide along the frontage. This helps to unify the facade into a coherent group.

The Bazeley Street terrace of four houses, constructed in 1845, were intended to establish a new standard of housing in the area, and remain in remarkably original condition.

The original townscape character of the churchyard and its surroundings is still evident today. However, the wartime bombing and subsequent redevelopment have eroded

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the coherence of the buildings around the churchyard, as well as the civic identity of the area.

Discovery House, built in 1961-3 and named in tribute to the discoveries of science, does not make a positive architectural contribution to the area, and was excluded from the boundary. Its long setback from the street and its arrangement of dwellings is uncharacteristic of the area.

Virginia House, named in commemoration of the historic voyage from Blackwall Docks to the New World, makes a poor architectural contribution to the corner of Montague Place. Its scale breaks the rhythm of the terrace and the lack of street entrances detracts from the character of the frontage.

Land Use

Apart from the church itself, there is a mix of uses in the area. The area south of the church is predominantly residential in character. The area north of the church, along East India Dock Road, is mainly commercial at ground floor level with residential units above.

The buildings in the area originally consisted of several civic buildings – the town hall, the institute, the school and the fire station. These uses gave the buildings extra significance and meaning, in addition to their architectural merit. Although some of these buildings have been lost, there is a still an important cluster of public buildings in the area – the church, the health centre, the Ideas Store and the (now disused) Poplar Baths. These civic land uses around the west of the Conservation Area and along East India Dock Road are an important characteristic of the area, as they contribute to a strong sense of place and identity.

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Scale

The area is generally low-rise in character, the only exceptions being the landmark church itself, and a recent tall residential building on the north side of East India Dock Road, outside the Conservation Area.

The Rectory is the largest of the existing residential buildings – a 3-story double-bay fronted brick structure with a basement. The terraced houses along Montague Place are generally 3-4 storeys with a basement, and those on Bazeley St 2-4 storeys. The Greenwich Pensioner public house is two storeys.

Open Space

The churchyard is the main area of open space in the area, and is essential to the setting of the Church. It is characterized by occasional ornamental trees in the centre, and large mature trees around the edge, particularly at the northern and southern ends. The enclosing railings (some original) give great definition to the edges.

Views

There are many long views to the spire of All Saints from outside the Conservation Area. Within the area, the views to the church across the churchyard are important from all directions, including diagonal views across the gardens.

The views along the streets bordering the churchyard are important as the character of the residential edge to the square is still largely evident. The view east along Montague Place is particularly valuable, as it is defined by surviving historic buildings in relatively good condition.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

All Saints Church, Poplar Conservation Area Page 9 of 17 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of All Saints Poplar is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In All Saints Poplar, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

All Saints Church, Poplar Conservation Area Page 10 of 17 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Any new development should have regard to national, regional and local planning policy. At the national level, the Planning Act (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas Act) 1990 places a duty on Tower Hamlets to designate conservation areas in “areas of special architectural or historic interest”, and to formulate and publish proposals for the preservation and enhancement of its conservation areas. National policy for planning and the historic environment is set out in Planning Policy Guidance 15 (PPG15). At the regional level, policy 4B.1 of the London Spatial Development Strategy (or London Plan) states that ‘The Mayor will seek to ensure that developments … respect London’s built heritage.’ At the local level, the new Local Development Framework (LDF) of Tower Hamlets states that ‘the Council will protect and enhance the historic environment of the borough’. This is described in detail in policy CP49 of the Core Strategy of the LDF. The area lies within the area covered by the Leaside Area Action Plan, and All Saints falls within the East India North Sub-Area. The AAP identifies the area around All Saints for residential use. All Saints Church is identified in the lDF as a local landmark, and views of it from publicly accessible places will be protected. The churchyard and the area of green area to the east of Bazely St is designated as public open space. The churchyard is also designated as an area of importance for nature conservation.

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Grade II*

All Saints Church with St Frideswide

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Grade II

Nos 5-12 (consec) Montague Place Nos 45-51 (odd) Montague Place Greenwich Pensioner Public House, Bazeley Street

Railed Wall and Gate Piers to All Saints Church Gate Piers to the Children’s Playground and All Saint’s Rectory

Highways and Transportation Issues

East India Dock road is the major traffic route along the northern edge of this Conservation Area. Newby Place, Montague Place and Bazeley Street are more residential in character.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

There is potential for redevelopment on the east side of Bazely St, where very high quality new buildings could restore a sense of definition to the square. Development would not need to be in a neo-Georgian style, but the materials, scale, proportions and rhythm should be consistent in character with the existing historic frontage to Montague Street. A pedestrian link through to Cotton Street should also be retained.

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The Borough will consider extending the boundary of the Conservation Area west to include the Grade II-listed former Poplar Baths on East India Dock Road. The architecture of this building, along with All Saints itself and the recent Ideas Store to the north of the road, all contribute to the identity of this part of Poplar.

There are minor improvements that could be made. The street lighting could be replaced with higher quality lighting, and in time higher quality paving could be used to re-surface the area. The bus stops in the area could also benefit from higher quality furniture.

The clock on All Saints Church was made by John Moore of Clerkenwell. It was restored recently, although there appears to be some staining on the stone below, which detracts from the otherwise very good exterior condition of the church.

East India Dock itself is a major traffic route, and if the traffic could be calmed, and the road markings and other highways infrastructure reapplied in a more sensitive and subtle way, then this would significantly enhance the setting of the Conservation Area.

Parks and Open Spaces

We will aim to achieve Green Heritage Site status for these gardens.

All trees in conservation areas are protected, and some trees are also covered by Tree Preservation Orders (TPO’s). Notice must be given to the authority before works

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Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

The most effective way to secure the historic environment is to ensure that buildings can continue to contribute to the life of the local community, preferably funding their

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In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

All Saints Church, Poplar Conservation Area Page 15 of 17 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Enforcement Strategy:

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

Poplar Baths, East India Dock Road E14 (just west of Conservation Area) Priority – C (C) Designation – Listed Grade II

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Condition – Poor, Vacant Ownership – Local Authority

Summary Former public baths, slipper baths and vapour baths. Built 1932-4 for Poplar Borough Council to the designs of Harley Heckford, Borough Engineer and R W Stanton, Chief Assistant. Vacant and in poor condition. Planning brief issued by local authority in 2005.

Action Proposed to Secure:

The Council is considering extending the Conservation Area boundary to provide additional protection to this building. To be discussed further during public consultation.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

All Saints Church, Poplar Conservation Area Page 17 of 17

Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Ropery Street

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

Ropery Street Conservation Area Page 1 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

Ropery Street Conservation Area Page 2 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Ropery Street Conservation Area Page 3 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Ropery Street Conservation Area was designated in May 1987. Bounded by Burdett Road to the west, Bow Common Lane to the south, Tower Hamlets Cemetery to the east and a jagged boundary reaching up to Hamlet’s Way in the north, Ropery Street sets the main street scene in the Conservation Area. Whilst there is only one locally listed building within the Conservation Area, at 218 Bow Common Lane, overall the terraces are collectively regarded as of townscape merit.

History

Until the second half of the 19th century, the area now occupied by the Ropery Street Conservation Area was previously occupied by open farmland. Historical maps show that during the early 19th century, a scatter of ropeworks and other industries were present along Bow Common Lane, which led to Bow Common. Currently within the Conservation Area, there is one locally listed building, known as “The Ropery” at 218 Bow Common Lane. The first directory entries in 1811, list John Soanes as a rope and twine maker at this property in the parish of Stepney. As recorded in the 1881 census, the household was occupied by Susan Soanes, who was described as a rope manufacturer.

Whilst the land north of Bow Common Lane was filled with utilities such as the Tower Hamlets Cemetery (1841) and gasworks (1850), the remaining land was filled with streets of Victorian terrace housing, characteristic of the 1880s.

Character

The prevailing character of the Ropery Street Conservation Area is defined by its uniform group of terraces, dating back to the mid-late 19th century. Much of the character of the terrace is gained from its overall uniformity and rhythm, proportions, height, bay width, consistent setback, matching materials and details. The streetscapes are considered significant as a group of buildings, as opposed to

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separate terraces having individual architectural merit. Stylish terraces with two storey bay windows and lavish stucco trim of circa 1870 remain along Mossford Street. Terraces with simpler details exist along Ropery Street, to the southern edge of the Tower Hamlets Cemetery.

The anomaly in the Ropery Street Conservation Area is the property at 218 Bow Common Lane. Originally built as a country residence, 218 Bow Common Lane is a detached Regency style villa. It presents a double fronted property with a hipped roof, of unusually steep pitch, covered in clay pantiles and setback from the road. One of the first properties erected in this locality, it predates the remainder of the Conservation Area, which is largely of the 1870s. Contrasting with the Victorian character and terrace typology, 218 Bow Common Lane was locally listed to ensure that its historical interest and character was recognised in regards to any future proposals.

Land Use

The land use character of the Ropery Street Conservation Area is predominantly residential, with commercial businesses on ground floor along its peripheral streetscapes, such as Hamlets Way and Burdett Road.

Scale

The existing scale of the area is predominantly low, with the terrace housing along its streetscapes a uniform 2-3 storeys in scale. The Avery Hill College building is the one exception, rising to three high storeys.

Open Spaces

The Ropery Street Conservation Area does not contain any large open spaces, although it is adjacent to Mile End Park. The public space is clearly defined and enclosed by the lines of terraced houses.

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Views

Long views run along street axes, highlighting the repetition and rhythm of the continuous terrace housing, in particular along Ropery Street and Bow Common Lane. Views of the trees within Tower Hamlets Cemetery from Lockhart St are also a unique characteristic of the area.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

Ropery Street Conservation Area Page 7 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Ropery Street is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Ropery Street, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Locally Listed Building

218 Bow Common Lane

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Highways and Transportation Issues

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

Any redevelopment of the builder’s yard should conform with local planning policy, and respect the character of the surrounding buildings.

There is potential for repair and refurbishment to improve the quality of many residential buildings in this Conservation Area. Issues such as cracked stucco, damaged railings, graffiti, and untidy cabling all detract from the inherent quality of the terraced houses. In addition, uncoordinated painting and re-surfacing of walls and narrow front yards have all detracted from the coherence of the terraces.

The local community should be consulted on how to improve the quality and coherence of the streetscape. A possible solution would be agreement on a limited palette of colours for painting front facades, in order to allow individual expression of houses but using colour tones in harmony with surrounding buildings.

Further enhancement of these residential terraces could be achieved by introducing more subtle, higher quality street furniture, following the example of the lighting on Mossford St and elsewhere. The street lighting along Bow Common Lane, for example, is inappropriate for a Conservation Area. Any new features should be introduced in a judicious and minimal way which does not over-clutter the streetscape

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and respects the historic character of the streets. Re-introduction of road sets would further contribute to the cohesivenss of the Conservation Area.

Options for improving the Burdett Road frontage should be investigated. Proposals should reduce the amount of street clutter, improve the quality of street furniture such as lighting, and improve parking and delivery arrangements while being sensitive to the requirements of local businesses.

Parks and Open Spaces

As described in the Appraisal, there are no major open spaces within the Conservation Area, although views exist to trees in both Tower Hamlets Cemetery and Mile End Park.

Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

a strong spirit of community and good race relations in Tower Hamlets. to get rid of prejudice, discrimination and victimisation within the communities we serve and our workforce

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Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

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The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

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Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

At this time, we are not aware of any listed buildings at risk in this Conservation Area.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

Ropery Street Conservation Area Page 14 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Naval Row

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

Naval Row Conservation Area Page 1 of 16 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

Naval Row Conservation Area Page 2 of 16 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

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1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Naval Row Conservation Area was designated in January 1987 by the London Docklands Development Corporation. It is defined to the north by the listed perimeter wall of the former East India Docks. Laid out in the early 19th century, Naval Row takes its name from a small terrace constructed c.1782 by John Perry, owner of Blackwall Yard. The last of the houses was demolished in 1945. The southern edge of the street is lined with historic buildings of interest including the listed hydraulic pumping station, now converted to residential use, and it is their group value which is safeguarded by the Conservation Area designation.

History

The East India Company was formed when, in 1600, the ‘Governor and Company of London Merchants trading into the East Indies’ were granted a license to trade by Elizabeth I. Blackwall Yard, established at Poplar by the East India Dock Company in 1614, was the first on the Isle of Dogs and developed into the nation’s most productive shipbuilding yard by the late 18th century. The main facilities for the yard included slipways for new ship-building, dry docks for repair and basins for fitting-out and refitting.

The East India Docks (1803-1806) were the third set of wet docks constructed on the Thames after the West India Docks in 1800-6 and the London Docks in 1802. Designed by John Rennie and Ralph Walker, they were constructed adjacent to the existing Brunswick Wharf. The docks comprised the Import and Export Docks, and the Entrance Basin linked to the Thames by an entrance lock. Earth excavated in the construction of the Import Dock was used to make bricks for the perimeter walls to the dock enclosures.

The trade of the East Indies was higher value and lower bulk than the trade of the West India Company, and involved fewer ships serviced by smaller docks. Large warehouses were not required as the valuable goods were transported along

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Commercial Road to the security of the East India Company’s City Warehouses as soon as they were unloaded. A 21-year monopoly on the loading, unloading and refitting of all vessels trading to the East Indies ensured the early success of the docks. This agreement between the East India Company and the dock company was extended by a further 6 years in 1827.

In 1833, the Government ended the East India Company’s trading function and the shipping trade plummeted. It was eventually resurrected in 1838 with the amalgamation of the East India and West India Dock Companies, and both dock systems began servicing all trades. The larger locks and deeper entrance basin of the East India Docks were better able to accommodate larger ships than the West India Docks and increased demand required the construction of a number of warehouses along the north quay (1865-6), and a railway link from Poplar Station (1860).

In 1909, the East India Docks passed into the control of the Port of London Authority (PLA), after which they were linked with the West India and Millwall Docks for administrative purposes. An extensive renovation scheme undertaken by the PLA between 1912-16 included the reconstruction of the north quay of the Import Dock.

The Docks were transformed in the Second World War when the Import Dock was drained for the construction of the Mulberry floating harbours used in the 1944 D-Day landings in Normandy. The Export Dock, having suffered severe bomb damage, was sold in 1946 to form part of the site for the construction of the Brunswick Power Station. In the 1960s the shipping facilities were eventually rendered obsolete by changes in cargo handling practices, and the docks eventually closed in 1967. The Import Dock was gradually filled-in and the sale of the East India Dock concluded by the PLA in 1971.

Character

The character of the Naval Row Conservation Area is defined by the surviving structures associated with the historic port and shipbuilding activities of the 19th century.

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The southern and western sections of the perimeter wall to the Import Dock enclosure have survived as the most substantial remains of the East India Dock System. A large stretch of the southern wall, including the curved south-western corner, was rebuilt in 1833-4 to accommodate the new road to Brunswick Wharf between the dock wall and Naval Row. A section of the eastern perimeter wall divides the carriage ways of Leamouth Road. The northern perimeter wall and the imposing main gate into the docks constructed in the north-western corner of the enclosure, were demolished in 1912 when East India Dock Road was widened. Of the three original entrances, only the eastern gateway into Leamouth Road survives and the dock walls have been listed in recognition of their importance as engineering structures. Although now dwarfed by the office development behind, the remodelled dock wall forms the defining northern boundary of the Naval Row Conservation Area, marginally softened by a landscaped pedestrian path.

The southern edge is lined with a mix of new development and historic buildings, most of them appropriately redeveloped to maintain the urban, maritime character of the area.

The Italianate former hydraulic pumping station sits at the eastern end of the Conservation Area and was constructed in 1857 to supply power to the East India Docks. Designed by dock company engineer Henry Martin, it was extended by A. Manning (1877-8) in a similar style, accommodating a new engine room to power the hydraulically operated gates to the new entrance lock. The hydraulic equipment was replaced by electrical machinery in 1925.

The neo-Georgian Naval House (No.36 Naval Row) was erected in 1928-9 by the Borough of Poplar, replacing stables which had occupied the site since 1834. Sold by Council in the mid-1980s, the flats have been privately refurbished and the block renamed Naval House. No.26 Naval Row stands on the site of an early 19th century lead manufactory and comprises a number of single-storey workshops. It also includes an art-deco inspired building, originally accommodating ground floor offices with warehousing above.

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The Steamship Public House, constructed in two stages in 1842 and 1845, occupies the site of the two easternmost houses of the original Naval Row Terrace. Designed by Edward Brown of Spitalfields, the main building sits back from the road and its original front is aligned with the older houses of Naval Row. The single storey street addition was added in 1885, and the building now forms the eastern gateway into Naval Row. It is still in use and makes a positive contribution to the character of the area.

Land Use

The area immediately adjacent to the Naval Row Conservation Area was once defined by worker’s housing and supporting industry associated with the dock activities. The construction of the Blackwall Tunnel approach roads in 1892-7 required the acquisition and demolition of much of the working-class terraced housing to the west of the docks. The tunnel approach road, and the public housing erected on adjacent sites, substantially changed the character of the surrounding area.

Many of the original 19th century buildings (stables, coach houses, workshops etc.), have since been redeveloped or renovated with more recent structures and recycled for residential use. There is little scope for further development in the Naval Row Conservation Area. The Steamship survives as an operating public house and remains as a valuable living part of the area’s historic character.

Open Space

The northern part of the Naval Row area is bounded to the west by a low retaining wall running in line with the former East India Dock Wall Road (1822-4). The road was closed and the area planted as part of Tunnel Gardens in 1902. Although this tree- lined strip of raised land provides an attractive forecourt to the historic dock wall, and despite the optimistic provision of park benches, its role is consigned to little more than a green buffer between the Blackwall Tunnel Approach and the western boundary wall of the old docks. The trees add a great deal of character to the remaining dock walls.

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Scale

The scale of the Conservation Area is defined by the buildings lining the southern edge of Naval Row, and the street still retains an intimate feel. The dock wall along the northern boundary of the Conservation Area is now overshadowed by the large commercial office development occupying the former footprint of East India Docks, marginally obscured by a row of trees lining the upper pedestrian path. The remainder of the buildings vary in scale from single-storey workshops to the more imposing residential buildings located at the eastern end of Naval Row.

Views

The most significant views are those along Naval Row itself from east and west, and the view north along the old perimeter wall of the East India Dock. The Italianate accumulator tower of the former Hydraulic Pumping Station forms a vertical focus at the eastern boundary of the Conservation Area, visible from Aspen Way, the Docklands Light Railway and the pedestrian bridge linking the East India DLR Station with the office development to the north.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

Naval Row Conservation Area Page 9 of 16 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Naval Row is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Naval Row, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Grade II

East India Dock Pumping Station, East India Dock Wall Road East India Dock Boundary Wall, East India Dock Wall Road Embankment Wall, Railings and Steps, Naval Row

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Highways and Transportation Issues

Naval Row includes an area of historic floorscape at the turning head at the east end of the road. East India Dock Wall Road is now a high quality raised pedestrian route which turns north alongside the Blackwall Tunnel Approach Road, with high quality surface materials, railings and other street furniture.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

The site at 1 Prestige Way is identified for future development. Proposals for this site’s frontage on to Naval Row should respect the character of the street, as defined in the appraisal, and should enhance its coherence, definition and identity.

In a wider sense, the character of the Conservation Area has been severely damaged by the Blackwall Tunnel Approach ramps to the west, and the Aspen Way urban motorway to the south. Investigations should be made as to how to reconnect the Conservation Area meaningfully and spatially to the historic fabric of Poplar to the west, and restore its historic connections with the river to the south.

Parks and Open Spaces

There are no significant parks or open spaces in the area, although there are small areas of greenery adjacent to the Blackwall Tunnel entrance.

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Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

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Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

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Enforcement Strategy:

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

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Listed Buildings at Risk:

At this time we are not aware of any listed buildings at risk in the Conservation Area.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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Chapel House

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

Chapel House Conservation Area Page 1 of 16 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

Chapel House Conservation Area Page 2 of 16 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

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1. Character Appraisal

Overview

Chapel House Conservation Area was designated in January 1987 by the London Dockland Development Corporation. It encompasses the predominantly residential area north of Westferry Road, and includes three Garden City Estates, some older traditional terraces and some fine landmark buildings.

History

The residential developments which characterise the Conservation Area largely date from the first part of the 20th century, as part of the government’s post-war drive to provide housing for families of the returning troops. Prior to this, much of the area was open land, and records dating back to 1817 note the area covered by Cahir Road, Harbinger Road, and Hesperus Crescent as meadows and swampland. In the mid-18th century, Chapel House was the only inland farmhouse on the Isle of Dogs, perhaps named after a medieval chapel located by the track between Poplar and the Greenwich Ferry. By the 20th century, the last greenfield site on the Isle of Dogs was built over by the municipal Chapel House Estate. Many of the roads are named after Clipper Ships (eg. Thermopylae Gate, Macquarie Way), in reference to their river side location.

The area was developed over three decades. The first traditional terraces later gave way to garden city estates which followed an architectural style derived from traditional village architecture, based on the virtues of cleanliness, simplicity and honest use of materials.

Terraced houses constructed between 1902-1904 were typical of the small, flat- fronted houses which lined the pavements, common to the period. Charteris Terrace (202-224 East Ferry Road) was constructed in 1907 by Griggs and Son of Manchester Road, and is a typical bay-fronted terrace with small front gardens and tessellated tile paths. Some houses retain original front doors and sash windows. Predominantly two storeys with four rooms and a scullery, the terraces were constructed in stock brick

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with red brick detailing, including the arches over doors and windows. Chimneys are a notable element of the terraced roofscape.

The Chapel House Estate (13-53 Chapel House Street, 140-168 East Ferry Road, 1- 19 and 2-24 Macquarie Way, 1-65 (odd) and 2-34 (even) Thermopylae Gate) terraces were designed in neo-Georgian style by Sir Frank Baines, Chief Architect of the Office of Works at the London County Council, in collaboration with Harley Heckford the Borough Council’s Engineer and Surveyor, responsible for the layout. Constructed by Griggs and Son between 1920-1921 on a 7.5acre site acquired partly from the Charteris Estate and partly from the Strafford Estate, a total of 120 properties were built. Each house and flat was given a garden, and a complimentary fruit tree. An overall uniformity links a variety in the grouping of houses and feature details. Common to all was the lack of a back extension, unpopular with the Garden City movement as it shut out precious light to the rear of the house.

(14-52 Chapel House Street & 170-200 East Ferry Road): Contemporaries of the Chapel House Street Estate, these 36 properties were constructed by Lockes Housing Society for the workers of Locke Lancasters nearby Millwall Lead Works. The firm’s architect, Bradshaw, Brown and Company of Billiter Square Buildings closely copied Baines designs and used the same contractor Griggs and Sons. The only significant difference being the introduction of segmental heads to the windows.

Manchester Grove Estate (201-207 East Ferry Road; 1-59 Manchester Grove; 2-44 Manchester Grove & 15-45 Manchester Road) was built in 1925-1926 for Poplar Borough Council by R. A. Reader of Hackney and designed by Harley Heckford, who had worked with Baines on the Chapel House Street Estate layout. The design maintained the character of the garden estate however some material alterations were made, probably for reasons of economy, including pebble-dashed facades and tiled roofs in lieu of stock brick and slate. Six houses damaged in World War II were rebuilt in the 1950s and retain the modest feel of the originals.

The Hesperus Crescent Estate (22-34 Harbinger Road; 1-139 Hesperus Crescent; 2- 62 Hesperus Crescent) was designed by Harley Heckford and built by R.A.Reader in

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1929-30. A total of 108 houses were located in three cul-de-sacs radiating from a central new crescent. As with the properties in Manchester Grove, the distinctive brick boundary walls were used, brickwork being fronted with ceramic and brick rubble. 1-13 Hesperus Crescent was destroyed during World War II and was replaced by a terrace of six 3-bed houses.

Landmark buildings in the area include the Grade-II listed Millwall Fire Station and cottages located on the corner of Eastferry and Westferry Roads, Harbinger Primary School, which forms the western corner of the Conservation Area, and The Lord Nelson Public House which was built by Henry Johnston in 1855.

Character

‘Remarkable in London-wide terms is the LCC’s Chapel House Estate for, though its layout is of standard green-suburb type, the elevations of its cottages and cottage-flats are, unusually, modelled on early 19th century London houses rather than the rural types used for outer suburbs’. (‘The Buildings of England-London Docklands’ Elizabeth Willamson & Nikolaus Pevsner)

The area is characterised by its ‘Garden City’ style of residential development, which contrasts with earlier traditional terraced housing. Individual properties are grouped on curved roads, in various compositions, set back from the highway with front gardens and street trees. The estates, whilst modest in scale and form, are carefully detailed with subtle variations. The modest character, fine proportions, traditional materials and simple detailing of doors and windows, porches, front gardens, fences and boundary walls, form part of the special character of the Chapel House Conservation Area. This character can be compromised by the cumulative effect of small alterations .

The original uniformity in scale and layout is critical to the preservation of the character of the Chapel House Conservation Area. Each small group of cottages is presented as a separate block, set beneath a single roof, located within an urban

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green space. The uniform rooflines amongst groups contribute to the character of the Conservation Area. New dormer or velux windows will generally not be permitted.

The maintenance of the space around the blocks is fundamental to the legibility of the layout. Extensions visible from the public realm will compromise the symmetry of the buildings and will be resisted by Council. Flank extensions to terraces are generally not acceptable as they destroy the symmetry of the terrace and disturb the uniformity of the group. The open area to the side of a terrace is as important to the balance of the terrace as the buildings themselves are.

Land Use

This Conservation Area is predominantly residential in character with very few other uses. There are some commercial uses on East Ferry Road. Planning permission will not be granted to expand or intensify non-residential uses where this would harm the residential character of the Conservation Area. The subdivision of a property into two or more units may also have a detrimental impact upon the character of the Conservation Area resulting in additional parking requirements, (often met by creating a hard standing within the garden space), and other unsympathetic alterations.

Scale

The scale of the area is predominantly low, most houses being of not more than two stories in height. This height increases in some areas along the major roads.

Open Space

Millwall Park, west of the DLR line, provides a public green space for local residents. Although the area doesn’t have a wide variety of open spaces, the private gardens make a considerable contribution to the public realm and the Garden City character. Replacement of gardens with hard landscaping is detrimental to the character of the Conservation Area. The existing building line is generally set back from the road with houses fronted by an area of landscaping.

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The original boundary treatments, a mixture of brick walls faced with burnt bricks and tiles and chestnut palings, form an important part of the landscape character of the area. Chapel House Street and other areas (eg. Charteris Terrace) probably lost their cast iron railings to assist the war effort.

Views

The Conservation Area has a number of important vistas. Vernacular street scenes with curved roads predominate. Particular care will be taken to ensure that views within the area are protected when considering applications for new development, alterations or extensions.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

Chapel House Conservation Area Page 9 of 16 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Chapel House is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Chapel House, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

Chapel House Conservation Area Page 10 of 16 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Grade II

397 Westferry Road Millwall Fire Station, 461 Westferry Road Fire Station Cottages, 1-5 Westferry Road

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Highways and Transportation Issues

The pressures of car parking have made themselves felt in this area. Front gardens which could add to the green landscape setting of the houses have been converted to off-street car parking spaces. It should be investigated whether any alternative design strategies can meet parking needs while preserving or restoring the character of the conservation area.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

The simplicity of the architecture, the symmetry of the small groups of houses, and the harmony of the landscaped public spaces can be easily damaged by insensitive development.

In close consultation with residents, consideration should be given to the use of Article 4 directions to avoid certain kinds of permitted development eroding the quality of the area.

Although it is outside of the Conservation Area, any re-use of the railway viaduct through Millwall park should be sensitive to the character of the area.

A review of parking provision in the area could significantly improve the quality of the streetscape by re-converting front gardens from hardstanding back into green spaces

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where possible, and encouraging the reinstatement of the characteristic boundary treatments.

Due to the consistency of the urban character, the area could benefit from the production of detailed design guidance for residents. The fragile character of this garden city housing can be severely compromised by the cumulative effect of small alterations and guidance would help to prevent unsympathetic alterations.

Any future refurbishment of the Harbinger School should consider restoring the original window types, replacing the upvc window frames.

Parks and Open Spaces

The management of green spaces and trees is important to this Conservation Area, as the Garden City concept is characterised by houses set into landscape. This special character needs to be protected in close coordination with other requirements under other legislation and policies.

All trees in conservation areas are protected, and many in this area, particularly along Macquarie Way and Chapel House Street are also covered by Tree Preservation Orders (TPO’s). All works to trees require specific permission. More information can be found in the Council’s Guide to Trees, and on the Tower Hamlets website. Carrying out works to trees without the necessary approval can be a criminal offence, and the Council welcomes early requests for advice.

Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

Chapel House Conservation Area Page 13 of 16 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

This consultation draft document is available on our website at:

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It is also available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores in the Borough. Please call if you would like to know where to find a copy, or if you have any other questions.

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

If listed buildings are not maintained in good repair, then the Council can step in to ensure that relevant repairs are carried out. In some circumstances, the Council itself

Chapel House Conservation Area Page 15 of 16 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines may undertake essential repairs and recover the cost from the owner. The Council has powers of compulsory purchase, if necessary to protect Listed Buildings.

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

At this time, we are not aware of any listed buildings at risk within the Conservation Area.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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Tower Hamlets Cemetery

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

Tower Hamlets Cemetery Conservation Area Page 1 of 18 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

Tower Hamlets Cemetery Conservation Area Page 2 of 18 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Tower Hamlets Cemetery Conservation Area Page 3 of 18 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Tower Hamlets Cemetery Conservation Area was designated in November 1987 and is located in Bow and centred around the Victorian cemetery park. Bounded by Mile End Road to the north, the Conservation Area is interrupted by the British Estate, built to replace the terraced row houses cleared in the 1970s, and includes the surviving residential townscapes of Brokesley Street and Mornington Grove, the St Clement’s Hospital site and Wellington Primary School.

History

During the 19th century, the land north of Bow Common Lane began to fill with the utilities that were a common characteristic of the Victorian city fringes; Tower Hamlets Cemetery opened in 1841, the work houses and infirmaries of the City Union (St Clements Hospital) were constructed in 1849 and the remaining areas were filled with streets of small terraces.

Tower Hamlets Cemetery

By the mid-19th century, the city’s church burial grounds were full to capacity and private cemetery companies responded to a commercial opportunity by opening a number of cemeteries on the fringes of Victorian London. The last of seven private cemeteries was established in Tower Hamlets in 1841, shortly before the mass closure of the inner-city burial grounds in the early 1850s and the subsequent opening of municipal burial grounds by local authorities.

An 1841 Act of Parliament established the City of London and Tower Hamlets Cemetery (also known as Bow Cemetery). The cemetery was laid out on drained open fields, with winding paths and ornamental trees, by Thomas Wyatt and David Brandon who were also responsible for the design of two chapels, later demolished by the GLC as part of the cemetery’s conversion to a public park in the 1960s.

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The company responsible for constructing the cemetery grounds was set up by prominent local businessmen, hoping to exploit the still sizeable middle-class market of the east end. Nevertheless, by 1851, 80% of the burials were common interments. As the majority of the income was expected to be generated from the more wealthy clientele, the character of the cemetery changed with the westward movement of the mercantile classes. The more lavish memorials were built within the first 20 years of the cemetery opening, close to the main entrance on Southern Grove. The growth of the east-end is demonstrated by the burial figures (250,000 by 1889). In 1896, a London-wide survey of burial grounds revealed that the private cemetery company was unable to cover the costs of the cemetery’s up-keep.

The neglected and war damaged cemetery was acquired by the GLC in 1965 and closed for burials in 1966 when an Act of Parliament was passed, designating it as a park. Management of the park has been the responsibility of the London Borough of Tower Hamlets since 1987. The cemetery, including the green space along Ackroyd Drive to the south, was declared a Local Nature Reserve in 2001.

St Clements Hospital

Originally constructed as the City of London Workhouse for the East London and City of London Union in 1849, the St Clements Hospital site is separated from the cemetery’s northern boundary by a substantial wall and public footpath. The original buildings, designed by Richard Tress, were later altered to form the City of London Union Infirmary in 1874. Following the reconstruction of Homerton Workhouse in 1909, the work house and infirmary at Bow was closed and later re-opened in 1912 as Bow Institution to treat the chronically ill. The London County Council (LCC) took over Bow Institution when the board of guardians was abolished in 1930, increasing bed numbers and opening a mental health unit in 1932. In 1936 the hospital was renamed St Clements. The western pavilion and chapel suffered considerable bomb damage during the Blitz.

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The remainder of the Conservation Area consists of Victorian terraces with some buildings of special note, including Wellington Primary School, built by the LCC in 1928, and the Grade-II listed Bow Road Underground Station railway tunnel entrance.

Character

The substantial institutional buildings of St Clements Hospital present the most prominent built fabric in the area, the site defined by a solid wall juxtaposed against the more open boundary of Tower Hamlets Cemetery. The hospital site has long been a prominent landmark in the locality and remains an important icon in the consciousness of the wider community. Its significance lies as much in the grouping of surviving buildings as in the fabric of individual structures, and provides a poignant representation of development history within the Borough.

Suffering bomb damage during the Blitz, the integrity of the historic buildings has been further compromised by site modifications, building demolitions and other alterations undertaken as a result of changes of use and mental health treatment methods adopted following the war. The site is Grade-II listed and future redevelopment will need to respect the surviving pre-1948 building fabric, the historic layout and the presentation onto Bow Road.

Tower Hamlets Cemetery is of considerable historic interest as one of a celebrated group of private cemeteries opened in the early years of Victoria’s reign and the first private cemetery established in the east. Now a nature reserve resulting from a century of neglect, most of the 33 acres are heavily wooded and home to an important variety of wild plants, flowers and insects. The largest woodland in east London and principally noted for its ecological value, the cemetery also contains a wealth of 19th century historic monuments including a number of listed tombs. A valued local amenity and educational resource, Tower Hamlets Cemetery is in urgent need of significant conservation works. Despite this it retains a Victorian elegance characterised by the romance of gentle decay. This gentle decay is fundamental to its character and any proposals for the park must respect this character.

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The surrounding residential areas are defined by a mix of mid-late Victorian terraces and post-war infill housing. Wellington Way, in particular, retains the remnants of a respectable Victorian neighbourhood

Land Use

Land use is principally defined by open space which extends to the grounds of larger institutional buildings in the area, and the residential mansion blocks and terraces. A small amount of commercial and retail activity is located on Mile End Road.

Open Space

Tower Hamlets Cemetery park defines its ‘open space’ character. The paths are maintained by the Friends of Tower Hamlets Cemetery and the Landscape section of the London Borough of Tower Hamlets. The conservation of gravestones is carried out by the Friends of Tower Hamlets as a volunteer initiative.

The boundary walls and Cemetery entrance gates off Southern Grove are listed. Ironwork and railings to the front of St Clements Hospital are distinctive and are Grade II listed. There are also many original railings in the front gardens of the Victorian terraces in Brokesley Street.

Several trees within the Conservation Area are protected by Tree Preservation Orders. The Southern Grove/Brokesely Street Tree Preservation Order Area straddles the north-western boundary of the Tower Hamlets Cemetery Conservation Area, and the area east of the British Estate is covered under the Wellington Way Tree Preservation Order Area.

Scale

The scale of the Conservation Area is dominated by the listed buildings of St Clements Hospital and the residential areas characterised by a mix of low-medium rise housing. The British Estate has an undeniable impact on the setting of the Conservation Area.

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Views

Views in the area are framed along existing axes and paths. Opportunities to strengthen the visual and physical connection through the Conservation Area, and in particular between the urban fabric and the cemetery park, will be supported. Wider views connect the Conservation Area to other parts of the Borough, (eg. the Canary Wharf towers appear over the cemetery green, framed by the Victorian terraces and mansion blocks of Brokesley Street).

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

This Management Plan is being prepared in consultation with the community, to set out the Borough’s commitment to high quality management of Conservation Areas. Preserving and enhancing the Borough’s architectural and historic built heritage over the next decades is of vital importance in understanding the past and allowing it to inform our present and future.

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of the Tower Hamlets Cemetery is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Tower Hamlets Cemetery, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Grade II

St Clements Hospital, Bow Road Front Wall, Gate Piers & Gates at St Clements Hospital, Bow Road Boundary Wall and Gate Piers to Tower Hamlets Cemetery Tomb of Ellen Wiskin, Tower Hamlets Cemetery Tomb of John Smith, Tower Hamlets Cemetery Tomb to east of tomb to John Smith, Tower Hamlets Cemetery Tomb of Ellen Llewellyn, Tower Hamlets Cemetery

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Tomb of Samuel Weddell, Tower Hamlets Cemetery Tomb of Sarah Morris and George Morris, Tower Hamlets Cemetery Tomb of Joseph Westwood, Tower Hamlets Cemetery Boundary Wall and Gate Piers to Tower Hamlets Cemetery, Southern Grove Bow Road London Transport Underground Station, Bow Road 1 Wellington Way 3 Wellington Way 5 Wellington Way 9-20 Mornington Grove Garden Walls and Piers at 9-20 Mornington Grove Wall across southern end of street, Mornington Grove K6 Telephone Kiosk outside 38 Bow Road

Locally Listed Building

Bollards at Brokesely Street/ Hamlets Way 32-40 Bow Road 48-56 Bow Road Boundary Wall to forecourt of 48-56 Bow Road

Highways and Transportation Issues

The underground railway runs underneath Mile End Road at the northern boundary, and Bow Road station is situated in the north-east corner of the conservation area.

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The draft Crossrail boundary runs past the southern part of the Conservation Area. Appropriate measures should be taken to mitigate any potential risks to the character of the area from the construction or operation of this new link.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

There is potential for the main frontage to the Hospital on Bow Road to be enhanced. Options should be explored for improving the streetscape, particularly the bus stop, phone boxes and other street furniture, lighting and signage.

Bow Road will form a key route for visitors to the Olympics and it will be important to ensure that improvements planned as a part of this respect the character of Conservation Area. Consideration will be given to whether Heritage funding can be sought to enable conservation improvements.

Hamlets Way, running along the north side of the cemetery, feels very isolated, and consideration should be given to improving appropriate lighting. Opportunities for improving overlooking of the path should also be investigated.

The historic character of the houses and other buildings on the residential streets should be enhanced where possible – for example by maintenance of stucco render, replacement of any damaged railings or missing features. Residents should be consulted on whether they would support stricter planning controls on permitted development in high quality areas.

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Parks and Open Spaces

As identified in the appraisal, the character of the cemetery itself has evolved over a long period of time, and it is now a unique place with an overgrown, other-worldly quality. This character and its ecological value today arose out of a lack of management, and of nature reasserting itself. Management and maintenance of the park should therefore be carried out with a very light touch and minimal intervention to conserve the many valuable monuments.

We will aim to achieve Green Heritage Site status for these gardens.

Support will be given to the preparation of a conservation plan for Tower Hamlets Cemetary.

Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

a strong spirit of community and good race relations in Tower Hamlets.

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Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

This consultation draft document is available on our website at:

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It is also available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores in the Borough. Please call if you would like to know where to find a copy, or if you have any other questions.

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

If listed buildings are not maintained in good repair, then the Council can step in to ensure that relevant repairs are carried out. In some circumstances, the Council itself

Tower Hamlets Cemetery Conservation Area Page 16 of 18 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines may undertake essential repairs and recover the cost from the owner. The Council has powers of compulsory purchase, if necessary to protect Listed Buildings.

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner. Tower Hamlets Cemetery Historical and Conservation Report, (Roger Bowdler, English Heritage May 1999) Paradise Preserved – An introduction to the assessment, evaluation, conservation and management of historic cemeteries, (Roger Bowdler, English Heritage draft 2002) Available online at: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/upload/pdf/paradise_preserved.pdf

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

Tower Hamlets Cemetery Southern Grove E3 Priority: C (C) Designation: Conservation Area Condition: Poor Ownership: Local Authority

Summary

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Opened in 1841. One of the seven private cemeteries of early Victorian London, and among the least known. Laid out on picturesque principles, with serpentine paths and (formerly) elaborate planting. War damage and neglect have combined to overpower the monuments. An active friends group has undertaken conservation work. A conservation plan is needed as the basis for repair and fundraising.

Action Proposed to Secure:

To be written after public consultation.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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Swaton Road

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

Swaton Road Conservation Area Page 1 of 13 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

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1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Swaton Road Conservation Area was designated in January 1988. Also known as the Four Roads Conservation Area, it is comprised of four roads in Poplar, namely Swaton Road, Spanby Road, Fairfoot Road and Knapp Road. The Conservation Area covers a small fragment of terraces, in an area once dominated by terrace housing. Swaton Road, being the only one of the four roads which retains the original housing, on both sides of the street.

History

The residential developments which characterise the Swaton Road Conservation Area date back to the 19th century. The area developed in the late 1860s in response to industrial expansion within Poplar and Bow. The flourishing industries, in particular the North London Carriage Works, located in Bow, attracted a large workforce to the East End and hence, the need to house the workforce resulted in the gradual development of rows of terrace housing across the area.

Historical maps indicate that in 1862, the area was once utilised as a market garden. This was bounded by the Tower Hamlets Cemetery, gas works and the London and Blackwall Extension, East and West India Docks and Birmingham Junction Railway lines. By 1875, the area can be seen to have developed with perimeter block terraces fronting onto small front strips and railings. Swaton Road is now the only original streetscape in the Conservation Area with terraces aligned on both sides of the street.

Character

Set amongst modern local authority housing, these four roads are an isolated remnant of the Victorian working class family dwellings, which once covered the Poplar area. The prevailing character of the Conservation Area is defined by its rows of double storey terraces with canted bay windows at ground floor level and Victorian sash windows. The characteristic London roof is concealed behind a corniced parapet. The

Swaton Road Conservation Area Page 4 of 13 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines uniformity of the cornice line and the roofscape behind is an important feature of these buildings. Stucco details decorate the doorway and bay window. Properties in these four roads were originally set behind railings with a small York Stone paved frontage. During the war, the railings were removed and melted down for the manufacturing of arms weapons. Remnants of the York Stone paving remain and contribute to the Victorian character of this Conservation Area. Whilst there are no statutorily listed buildings in the Swaton Road Conservation Area, the rows of terrace housing are collectively regarded as of townscape merit, being a surviving remnant of Victorian architecture.

Land Use

The land use character of the Swaton Road Conservation Area is entirely residential in nature where the scale of the property is modest in comparison to the surrounding local authority estates.

Scale

The existing building scale in the area is a uniform two storeys along all four of the individual streetscapes.

Open Spaces

The Swaton Road Conservation Area is defined by its terraced and tree-aligned streetscapes, but does not contain any significant open space component.

Views

Views in the area include long views along street axes, with local authority housing in view as a backdrop to the terrace typology.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Swaton Road is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Swaton Road, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

No listed buildings

Highways and Transportation Issues

The quality of the space between the buildings is essential to the character of the conservation area, and is important as it is a surviving fragment of a much larger area. The trees, the scale of the two-storey residential buildings, railings, walls, lighting and other street furniture all contribute to this character.

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The speed pads on the road detract from the character of the area, and alternative forms of traffic calming, such as careful, judicious road narrowing, should be considered.

Any work carried out should respect the history and character of the area. Anyone involved in development which impacts on public spaces should refer to the Council’s street design guide and English Heritage’s ‘Streets for All’ document. The ongoing cost of maintenance should also be considered carefully.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

There are many opportunities for enhancement, both in terms of repairing and maintaining buildings and also enhancing the streetscape.

On some houses, the stucco render, or the front garden has fallen into disrepair, and front walls and railings have been damaged or removed. Low front walls are part of the character of the area which give coherence to the street and also conceal refuse bins from general view. Some windows in the area are boarded up, which detracts from the quality of the area.

The boarded-up corner of Spanby Road and Swaton Road is a negative feature of the area, and the refurbishment or redevelopment of this site as a garden wall or building should be a priority.

The street lighting posts are poor for a Conservation Area, and their replacement could improve the sense of quality of the street.

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Parks and Open Spaces

There are no major parks or open spaces in the Conservation Area, although there is a small park adjacent to the area to the south.

Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

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Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

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Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs.

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The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

There are no listed buildings in this Conservation Area at the present time.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Roman Road Market

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

Roman Road Market Conservation Area Page 1 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

Roman Road Market Conservation Area Page 2 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Roman Road Market Conservation Area Page 3 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Roman Road Conservation Area was designated in September 1989. Drafted around St Stephen’s Road and Cardigan Road, Roman Road sets the main street scene in the conservation area. Its designation highlights its historic significance and assures that its special character is retained. At the heart of the market lies the Grade II listed Passmore Edwards Public Library, built in 1900. The other building of note is St Paul and St Stephens Church, dated 1878 (Listed Ecclesiastical Grade C) along St Stephen’s Road. The remainder of Roman Road is of collective townscape merit.

History

Roman Road runs along the line of one of the first routes to connect London to Colchester, and was named as such when Roman remains were first discovered in the 1860s close to the site of the Old Ford. Historical maps of 1703 show the area as a driftway, but in 1883, the Metropolitan Board of Works cleared a small area of slum housing and created Green Street, which is now part of Roman Road. The Metropolitan Board of Works was originally set up in 1855 with the purpose of providing a sewer system for London, but was also responsible for the improvements to Wapping High Street, East Smithfield, Preston’s Road, Bethnal Green Road and Green Street. Hence Roman Road was built along an existing path at a time when several new roads were being established across East London.

Despite the influx of covered shopping centres in the 1970s, street markets such as the Roman Road Market continued to thrive as an East London tradition. Whilst the Roman Road Market and other open markets such as Whitechapel, Walthamstow, Barking and Romford continued along main roads, efforts were made to ensure that these markets were separated from traffic and made partly pedestrian. This was a post-war planning initiative, when the importance of the street market was recognised.

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Character

The character of the Roman Road Market Conservation Area is defined by the lively street market along Roman Road, and the streetscape of small retail shops and modest houses which encloses it. Established in 1843, the market combines everyday goods with food, clothing, crafts, books and antiques. Partly pedestrianised, Roman Road is effectively closed to vehicular traffic for the market to take place. The mixed use tenure is housed in varying forms between 2-3 storeys with its ground floor shopfronts providing a colourful backdrop to the vibrant market scene, and carefully defining the domestic street scale. The fragile character of Roman Road has been eroded in the past by unsympathetic alterations and re-building, and further attrition of this character must be prevented. Two archways mark each end of the Roman Road Market. Erected in 1986, the archways are inscribed in Latin, alluding to the area’s Roman past.

Land Use

The land use character of the Roman Road Conservation Area is a mixture of commercial and retail on ground floor with residential premises above. This mix of uses is an essential part of the character of the area. Alternative land uses would not be considered, so as to conserve the tradition of the street markets with this backdrop intact.

Scale

The existing building scale of the area is predominantly low, with Roman Road being flanked by a varying 2-3 stories, providing a comfortable street scene for pedestrian activity. 2 storey terrace housing presents itself along Cardigan Road.

Open Spaces

The Roman Road Market Conservation Area is defined by its pedestrian and market activity along its streetscape, but does not contain any significant open space component.

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Views

Views in the area include long views along street axes, including views through Roman Road, St Stephen’s Road and Cardigan Road. There are no visual landmarks along Roman Road, other than the red brick and stone banded Passmore Edwards Public Library being a prominent and easily recognisable community facility.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

Roman Road Market Conservation Area Page 7 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Roman Road Market is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Roman Road Market, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Ecclesiastical Grade C (II)

St Paul With St Marks Church, St Stephens Road

Grade II

564 Roman Road

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Locally Listed Building

129 Tredegar Road

Highways and Transportation Issues

Roman Road is a busy one-way street and is an essential thoroughfare for both commercial users and customers. Deliveries and customer parking need to be managed in a way that respects and maintains the character of the street.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

Despite recent improvements, there is still potential for the general quality of the landscaping in the street to be improved, and the area could benefit from a public realm strategy to coordinate physical features with management procedures.

The quality of the frontage to the Old Ford Infant School could be improved.

At the eastern end of the area, consideration should be given to extending the Conservation Area boundary to include the two buildings on the other side of Parnell Road, as they are important in defining the space at the eastern entrance to the market.

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Parks and Open Spaces

There are no major parks or open spaces in this Conservation Area. The main public space is the street itself, defined by a continuous building line on both sides.

Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

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Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

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Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs.

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The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

At this time we are not aware of any listed buildings at risk in this Conservation Area.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

Rising land values are fuelling applications to extend these low properties. The Council will protect the existing character of this East End Street.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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Clinton Road

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

Clinton Road Conservation Area Page 1 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

Clinton Road Conservation Area Page 2 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Clinton Road Conservation Area Page 3 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Clinton Road Conservation Area was designated in September 1989. Bounded by Mile End Road and Grove Road, much of the early terrace housing was cleared for the provision of open space, now occupied by Mile End parkland. The remaining townscapes within the Conservation Area include the residential terrace housing along Clinton Road and the commercial edge to Mile End Road.

History

Beginning in the late 17th century, for the first time, small clusters of houses and terraces appeared along Mile End Road. These were inhabited by a wealthy class of merchants and mariners until the early 19th century, when the character of the area began to change due to the development of open land. With the wealthier inhabitants leaving Mile End, and a large Jewish community moving into this area, cultural changes and activity prompted a change in the architectural setting. Mile End Road was no longer considered a desirable place of residence, but instead a commercial hub. This formed the basis for the mix of uses and tenure along Mile End Road.

In an attempt to reclaim Mile End’s refined character, 17th and 18th century houses were restored, and the provision of open space became an aspiration. Appearing in the County of London Plan 1943 was a concept to provide 90 acres of green space spanning from Victoria Park to the Thames, along the Regents Canal. In order for this open space to be instigated, a stretch of Victorian styled terraces spanning from Victoria Park was cleared. The surviving Clinton Road streetscape is an important remnant of Victorian Mile End. With an emphasis on sustainability, the masterplan for a continuous park by Tibbalds Munro came to fruition in 1992. The Green Bridge (by CWZG’s Piers Gough) provides a connection over Mile End Park with commercial shops underneath the bridge.

Consequently the Clinton Road Conservation Area was specifically drafted around and to include the surviving Clinton Road townscape, St Rhystyd’s Welsh Church

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(1914 – since demolished) at 9 Whitman Road, the Mile End Lock (dated early 19th century) and the listed terraces of Mile End Road.

Character

The character of the Clinton Road Conservation Area is defined by two distinct townscapes. First, Clinton Road is lined by residential terraces of two storeys. Built around the 1870s, the Victorian style terraces of London stock brick, stucco dressing and bay windows, were spared from slum clearance and remain intact. Much of the character of the terrace is gained from its overall uniformity and rhythm, its height, bay width, arched window heads, consistent setback, matching materials and details. The terraced houses have subtle variations in their colour, and the streetscape is significant as a group of buildings forming a coherent whole.

In contrast, the Mile End Road frontage is varied, consisting of early 19th century Georgian style terraces between 359 and 373 Mile End Road. The locally listed terrace, constructed of stock brick, were originally houses. The ground level shop fronts were later integrated, with residential floors existing above. Within the locally listed terrace is an Italianate building of the mid-late 19th century at 373 Mile End Road. Built of yellow stock brick with stucco dressings, it has a slate roof with heavy bracketed eaves cornice and blocking course. It retains an interesting shop front behind unsympathetic later adverts and alterations.

The Listed Guardian Angels Roman Catholic Church (1901-1902) was built in red brick with perpendicular details and entirely unique in this part of the Mile End Road streetscape. In terms of views and silhouettes, the church has the most significance and presence in the Conservation Area.

Land Use

The land use character of the Clinton Road Conservation Area is a mixture of residential, commercial and open space, and this mix of uses is essential to the

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character of this part of Mile End Road. Similarly, the residential uses of Clinton Road are essential to its character.

Scale

The existing building scale in the area is generally two to three stories, with smaller domestic-scale two storey dwellings along Clinton Road. The scale along Mile End Road is principally three storeys in height, with the notable Italianate building (373 Mile End Road) higher at four storeys. Next to it is the Guardian Angels Roman Catholic Church, a higher, more prominent building with associated tower and spire.

Open Spaces

The Clinton Road Conservation Area includes part of Mile End Park as open space. The park is not of any architectural importance to the Conservation Area, however it is culturally and historically significant to Tower Hamlets as an initiative of the County of London Plan 1943 to provide open space in London. In 2002, a masterplan by Tibbalds Munro was realised. Landscaping, earth-covered buildings and the Green bridge integrates the land and provides a link over Mile End Road. The Green bridge is quickly becoming a defining characteristic and landmark of this part of London.

Views

Long views exist along both Mile End Road and Burdett Road, with the Green Bridge and associated parklands the notable features. Vistas down Clinton Road show remnants of the Victorian terrace development, which survived the slum clearance. Panoramic views from the Green Bridge (which lies on the same linear axis as Clinton Road) highlight views towards the Canary Wharf towers to the southwest and to the Westfield Student Village to the northwest, as a backdrop to the Mile End Park grounds. The most important visual landmark in the area is the Guardian Angels Roman Catholic Church and spire which is visible from numerous viewpoints within the Clinton Road Conservation area, and extensively from surrounding streets beyond.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Clinton Road is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Clinton Road, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Any new development should have regard to national, regional and local planning policy.

At the national level, the Planning Act (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas Act) 1990 places a duty on Tower Hamlets to designate conservation areas in “areas of special architectural or historic interest”, and to formulate and publish proposals for the preservation and enhancement of its conservation areas. National policy for planning and the historic environment is set out in Planning Policy Guidance 15 (PPG15). At the regional level, policy 4B.1 of the London Spatial Development Strategy (or London Plan) states that ‘The Mayor will seek to ensure that developments … respect London’s built heritage.’ At the local level, the new Local Development Framework (LDF) of Tower Hamlets states that ‘the Council will protect and enhance the historic environment of the borough’. This is described in detail in policy CP49 of the Core Strategy of the LDF. Several local policies apply to this Conservation Area. It is adjacent to two development sites – one on Burdett Road and one at Mile End underground station. The London Cycle Network runs west-east along Mile End Road, and also north-south along Burdett Road. A strategic cycle route runs north-south through the area over the Green Bridge, following the park. The Regents Canal to the west is part of the Blue Ribbon and Green Chain networks. The park to the north and south is an area of importance for nature conservation, and also designated as Metropolitan Open Land.

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

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Grade II

The Guardian Angels RC Church, Mile End Road 377 Mile End Road Guardian Angels School, Whitman Road

Locally Listed Building

359-373 Mile End Road 379-381 Mile End Road

Highways and Transportation Issues

Mile End Road is the main thoroughfare through the area, and the volume of traffic dominates the street scene in this area. Clinton Road is much quieter, although again parked cars have become a dominant feature of the street scene.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

There is potential to improve the Mile End Road frontage by coordinating signage, reducing the number of upvc windows and trying to ensure that security infrastructure does not harm the character of the buildings. Ways of calming the traffic on Mile End Road, and reducing the dominance of cars in the other streets within the area should

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be investigated. This would help to improve the setting of the listed buildings on Mile End Road and give a greater sense of quality in the area.

Clinton Road itself is a very coherent residential street, and consideration should be given to specific controls on detailed works in the street. In particular, the streetscape could be enhanced if cornices, dressings, front walls and railings were coordinated during repairs and refurbishments.

There is very little scope for new development in the Conservation Area, as the undeveloped areas are designated as public open spaces and form part of Mile End Park.

Parks and Open Spaces

The Conservation Area encloses a portion of Mile End Park, including the northern approach to the landmark parklands.

Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

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Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

This consultation draft document is available on our website at:

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It is also available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores in the Borough. Please call if you would like to know where to find a copy, or if you have any other questions.

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

If listed buildings are not maintained in good repair, then the Council can step in to ensure that relevant repairs are carried out. In some circumstances, the Council itself

Clinton Road Conservation Area Page 13 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines may undertake essential repairs and recover the cost from the owner. The Council has powers of compulsory purchase, if necessary to protect Listed Buildings.

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

At this time we are not aware of any listed buildings at risk in the Conservation Area.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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Lowell Street

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

Lowell Street Conservation Area Page 1 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

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1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Lowell Street Conservation Area was designated in June 1989. Located north of Commercial Road (east of Limehouse), the Conservation Area was designated essentially to protect the two rows of Grade II listed terraces on either side of Lowell Street and the section of the Limehouse Curve bridge (an extension to the London and Blackwall Railway).

History

The early 19th century saw major urban developments in the area. In 1802 – 6, Commercial Road was created as a quick and direct route between the City of London and the new East and West India Docks. Such main roads linked the Docks, to allow for the transport of goods from the ships into the City. When the roads were built, Stepney and Limehouse were still small villages and some distance away from London. By 1830, historical maps of the area show that most of the land lining Commercial Road was developed with terraces and shops, extending from Limehouse to Salmons Lane and St Anne’s Church.

With the development of canals and the introduction of water transportation, the direct transport of goods was made possible, such as via the Regent’s Canal at Limehouse (1820) and its own dock, the Limehouse Basin. Although most of the docks were developed on untouched land, soon existing inhabitants were forced beyond the riverside hamlets and spread into areas north of Commercial Road and East India Dock Road.

To coincide with the development of docks and freedom of trade, the 1830s saw the arrival of railways in the area. The London & Blackwall Railway extended to the Isle of Dogs in 1865-72. This link to the main line was strengthened in 1880 with the Limehouse Curve extension. Extending over Commercial Road and Lowell Street, the wrought iron trussed bridge, built on the Limehouse Curve provided an additional link between the London & Blackwall Railway and extension to Bow. The 19th century

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terrace housing at this part of Commercial Road, was considered contemporary when housing was originally developed in this district.

Character

The prevailing character of the Lowell Street Conservation Area is defined by early 19th century terrace housing at 683-691 and 699-711 Commercial Road. The terraces are Grade II listed and 3 storeys in height with basement and are 2 bays wide with round headed doorways.

683-691 Commercial Road presents terraces of stock brick with stucco eaves cornice and blocking course. The windows each present plain reveals, sashes and intact glazing bars. 699-711 Commercial Road presents rusticated stucco on ground floor, with round headed windows and steps with iron railings. The windows on 1st floor have moulded stucco architraves.

The Grade II listed railway bridge (section of the Limehouse Curve) spans across Commercial Road above the junction of Commercial Road and Lowell Street. Dated mid 19th century, the early cast iron railway bridge (now unused) is supported on large round cast iron pillars.

Land Use

The land use character of the Lowell Street Conservation Area is essentially residential. The terrace housing on either side of Lowell Street at 683-691 and 699- 711 Commercial Road set a precedent for the scale and land use for future residential development, including the recent Tequila Wharf development at the west end of the Conservation Area.

Scale

The scale of the area is predominantly low, with a uniform 3 storey frontage presented to Commercial Road. Higher residential development exists behind this frontage at Tequila Wharf, with views over the Regents Canal.

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Open Space

The Lowell Street Conservation Area is defined by a hard building edge and does not contain any significant open space.

Views

Long views run along Commercial Road, highlighting the surviving pockets of terrace housing. These are seen in juxtaposition with other land uses that exist along this section of the road between Limehouse and the junction with Salmon Lane, and clearly demonstrate the very close conjunction of residential (the houses) and commercial (the cast iron bridge) activities at that time.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Lowell Street is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Lowell Street, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Grade II 683 – 691 Commercial Road 699-711 Commercial Road Section of the Limehouse Curve Bridge, railway bridge at the junction with Lowell Street Drinking Fountain under railway bridge at junction with Lowell Street

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Highways and Transportation Issues

Commercial Road is the main road along the southern edge of this small Conservation Area, and the design and management of this road has a significant impact on how the buildings in the area are perceived. This road is managed by Transport for London, and is identified in the plan as a strategic route.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

Commercial Road itself is one of the dominant features of the Lowell St Conservation Area, due to its size and the volume of traffic it carries. Any efforts to enhance the quality of this area should investigate options for calming the traffic, reducing noise and improving the street environment.

Although it is just outside the Conservation Area, any proposals to redevelop the site at 721-723 Commercial Road should respect the setting of the listed terraces. In particular, any proposals should restore a clear defined frontage to the north side of Commercial Road.

There is potential to clean and refurbish several aspects of the Conservation Area. In particular, the bridge itself suffers from graffiti and building works to the corner of 497 Commercial Road appeared unfinished at time of survey. A new accessible use for the viaduct might also be sought (railway dismantled).

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The draft Crossrail boundary runs past the south of this area, and the vacant site to the south of Commercial Road is a possible site for a ventilation shaft for the new Crossrail tunnels. Appropriate measures should be taken to mitigate any potential risks to the listed buildings in the area from the construction or operation of this link. Also, any new permanent building on the site should respect the scale of the listed terraces and form an appropriate urban frontage to Commercial Road.

Although the road is wide, the quality of the space also depends on its enclosure by buildings on both sides of the road. On the other side of the road, outside this Conservation Area, Nos 604-608 (even) are Grade II listed. These buildings could contribute to a high quality edge to the southern side of the road. Consideration should be given to extending the Conservation Area to include these buildings, and any new development between these buildings and the viaduct.

Parks and Open Spaces

There are no significant parks or open spaces in this Conservation Area, although there are pockets of green space along the nearby canal. There may be potential for creative re-use of the space on top of the viaduct.

Equalities:

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This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

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Publication Mechanism:

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

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The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

At this time we are not aware of any listed buildings at risk within the Conservation Area.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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London Hospital

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

London Hospital Conservation Area Page 1 of 16 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

Barts and the London NHS Trust is currently undertaking a major redevelopment of the London Hospital site which will fundamentally alter the character of this part of London.

The new tall buildings, approximately 90m high, will create a landmark that will be seen for miles around, but which will also make their presence felt in the surrounding residential streets to the south.

The historic entrance frontage to Whitechapel Road will remain, a new multi-purpose public square will form a new focus in the centre of the scheme, and several listed buildings will be enhanced around the area by the removal of hospital clutter.

Because of this significant ongoing change, this documents should be revised once the dust of construction has settled, and the new character of the area has established itself.

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1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The London Hospital Conservation Area was designated in April 1990, to include the hospital precinct that is located entirely on the south side of Whitechapel Road. Since its foundation in 1757, the London Hospital site has undergone incremental development over time experiencing change and alteration not only to the hospital building, but also to surrounding buildings and facilities. The establishment and reorganisation of the hospital site has resulted in a wide range of historical and architectural styles in the area.

The hospital and surrounding buildings have a strong historical link with the community and city life of the East End of London. The importance of the site itself is derived from the quality of the principal buildings, their historical associations and the relationship of those hospital facilities with their surroundings. The London Hospital site has been the scene of continuous change in response to the evolving healthcare needs and provision of services.

History

After the construction of Bow Bridge, in the early 12th century, the main road followed the present alignment of Whitechapel Road and Mile End Road. The medieval settlement of Whitechapel was focused on the church of Mary Matfelon, which stood at the eastern end of Whitechapel High Street until its destruction after bombing in World War II. St Mary’s was a chapel-of-ease to St Dunstan’s Stepney, until 1329 when it became a parish church in its own right. The name of the settlement is said to derive from the white washed walls of the chapel.

Ribbon development along the Whitechapel Road existed as early as the 16th century, with pasture and market gardens behind. Until the early years of the 18th century, this point was the limit of London’s suburban development. During the Civil War there was a fort, just east of where the London Hospital now stands and there

London Hospital Conservation Area Page 4 of 16 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines were defensive banks and ditches to the north and south, to protect London from Royalist attack.

By the mid 18th century, continuous ribbon development had extended beyond Dog Row (present day Cambridge Heath Road) to the east and streets were beginning to be laid out on either side of Whitechapel Road. By mid 19th century, the urbanisation of the area was complete and was moving towards the poverty and overcrowding which became synonymous with the East End at that time.

The London Hospital moved to Whitechapel in 1748, eight years after its foundation. The main building fronting Whitechapel Road, was built in 1751 to the designs of the architect, Boulton Mainwaring, and is Grade II listed. Several extensions were made in 1781, 1839, 1849, 1876 and later. The façade and large pediment is an imposing feature along Whitechapel Road, representing a good example of Georgian and Victorian classical architecture. Georgian terraces to the south and west of the hospital, Ashfield Street, Newark Street, Mount Terrace, Walden Street, were laid out in the first three decades of the 19th century. Mount Terrace was built 1810 following the removal of the Mount, an artificial mound initially constructed out of spoil from the construction of the Civil War trenches. The Mount was taken down in 1807-08, to be used in constructing roads across marshy land, in connection with the construction of the East and West India Docks.

Whitechapel Road has a great significance in the development of east London, having been a major thoroughfare since the 12th century, forming a coach link to Europe via Harwich and having been built up as part of the suburban expansion of London from as early as the 16th century. It continues today as a major movement route.

Character

A distinctive character for the London Hospital Conservation Area is not identifiable because the hospital site has undergone widespread expansion and alteration. The principal buildings and surrounding area now encompass a wide range of architectural and historic styles of building.

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Many large Victorian and Edwardian institutional buildings and a smaller number of later 20th century hospital blocks exist throughout the hospital site. The area also includes good early 19th century domestic terraces. The original street pattern is still largely apparent, although Philpot, Turner, East Mount and Walden Streets and Mount Terrace have been partially closed and pedestrianised.

Surrounding the hospital, much of the fabric of the original terraces remains, although many buildings have been converted from private houses to uses associated with the hospital. Turning into Newark Street, the scale and character changes considerably. The Grade II listed houses at 26-36 are late Georgian in date, of stock brick with brick and stone dressing and remain substantially unaltered.

The area contains Victorian terraced buildings with some detailed neo-Georgian style forming a homogenous and cohesive group, largely intact despite war damage and redevelopment.

Land Use

The land use character of the London Hospital Conservation Area is a mixture of residential use, but also consisting of medical and institutional buildings.

Scale

The piecemeal development of the area has resulted in a diversity of scales and styles in the Conservation Area. Generally, residential/domestic buildings, such as the Grade II-listed terraces on Mount Terrace and Walden Street are 2-3 storeys, with institutional buildings being of a greater scale.

Open Space

The London Hospital Conservation Area is defined by a hard building edge and hence does not contain any significant open space component.

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Views

Views in the area run along street axes, including the long views through Whitechapel Road, Stepney Way and Newark Street. The London Hospital site is the main visual landmark within the Conservation Area and indeed in Whitechapel, acting as a backdrop to both primary long views and terminating views along side streets in the area. The Church of St Augustine with St Phillip (The School of Medicine and Dentistry) makes an important visual point of focus to Turner Street, Stepney Way and Newark Street.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of the area is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In the London Hospital area, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

London Hospital Conservation Area Page 9 of 16 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Any new development should have regard to national, regional and local planning policy. At the national level, the Planning Act (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas Act) 1990 places a duty on Tower Hamlets to designate conservation areas in “areas of special architectural or historic interest”, and to formulate and publish proposals for the preservation and enhancement of its conservation areas. National policy for planning and the historic environment is set out in Planning Policy Guidance 15 (PPG15). At the regional level, policy 4B.1 of the London Spatial Development Strategy (or London Plan) states that ‘The Mayor will seek to ensure that developments … respect London’s built heritage.’ At the local level, the new Local Development Framework (LDF) of Tower Hamlets states that ‘the Council will protect and enhance the historic environment of the borough’. This is described in detail in policy CP49 of the Core Strategy of the LDF. The London Hospital area lies just inside the area covered by the City Fringe Area Action Plan. Whitechapel is identified as a Sub-Area, which identifies the area as a health cluster, and makes proposals for the public realm to the north along Whitechapel Road. The Conservation Area also lies within the area for the more detailed Whitechapel Masterplan. A proposed cycle route runs through the area from west to east. The London Cycle Network Plus runs from west to east along Whitechapel Road at the northern edge of the Conservation Area.

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Grade II*

St Augustine with St Philip’s Church, Stepney Way

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Grade II

22-34 Mount Terrace The London Hospital, Whitechapel Road Statue in rear courtyard of the London Hospital, Whitechapel Road Pillar Box in rear courtyard of The London Hospital, Whitechapel Road K2 Telephone Kiosk opposite No 209, Whitechapel Road K2 Telephone Kiosk outside London Hospital to east of former junction with Turner Street, Whitechapel Road 28 Newark Street 30-32 Newark Street 34 Newark Street 36 Newark Street 38 Newark Street 40-42 Newark Street 43-69 Philpot Street (odd) 46-48 Ashfield Street (even, south side) 33-49 Walden Street

Locally Listed

39-43 Ashfield Street (odd, north side)

Highways and Transportation Issues

Whitechapel Road is the major route along the northern edge of the Conservation Area. The City Fringe area action plan identifies this part of the street as a District Town Centre, and proposes environmental improvements and better crossings and interchanges.

Although Whitechapel Road is an ancient route, the small residential streets to the south have retained more of their historic character. The quality of the streetscape, the surface materials, street furniture and other features can all be integral parts of the character of conservation areas. Any work carried out should respect this historic

London Hospital Conservation Area Page 11 of 16 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines character. Anyone involved in development which impacts on public spaces should refer to the Council’s street design guide and English Heritage’s ‘Streets for All’ document. The ongoing cost of maintenance should also be considered carefully.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

(to be inserted)

Parks and Open Spaces

At present, the largest open space is the landscaped area in Philpot Street adjacent to the Nursing School. The London Hospital masterplan, however, will create a new public space in the centre of the area, where the major entrances to the hospital will be located.

Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

London Hospital Conservation Area Page 12 of 16 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

This consultation draft document is available on our website at:

London Hospital Conservation Area Page 13 of 16 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

It is also available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores in the Borough. Please call if you would like to know where to find a copy, or if you have any other questions.

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

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The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

A number of listed structures are being demolished as part of the London Hospital masterplan. While the destruction of any listed building is cause for regret, these demolitions are considered necessary to allow the new masterplan to be created.

Demolished buildings should be fully recorded for historical purposes. Where listed buildings are partially demolished as part of this masterplan, the remedial work to exposed edges and faces should be of the highest quality.

Where buildings were listed because of their association with a person, organisation or other historical fact, appropriate measures should be taken to safeguard the memory of those associations in this part of London.

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Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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Globe Road

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

Globe Road Conservation Area Page 1 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

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1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Globe Road Conservation Area was designated in October 1990, and is bounded by Roman Road, Burnham Street and Old Ford Road. The area is centred on the streetscape of Globe Road, which runs north-south through the area. Its designation highlights its historic significance and assures that its special character is retained.

With many notable buildings such as The Camel Public House (277 Globe Road) and the Globe Primary School along Globe Road, the Conservation Area also encompasses the Grade II listed building, the former Bethnal Green Fire Station (51 Roman Road), which has since been restored by the Western Order of Buddhists. The London Buddhists Centre appears to have had a regenerative influence over some of the commercial shop units in the immediate area.

History

In 1896, for local administrative purposes, the London Borough of Tower Hamlets was formed of seven neighbourhoods, one of which was Globe Town. This name was revived from the 1820s where the flourishing district was dubbed as such. This community was rapidly growing around the junction of Roman Road and Globe Road. Triangular in shape, Globe Town is bounded by Mile End Road, Cambridge Heath Road and the Regents Canal to the east.

The meandering Globe Road was formerly known as Back Lane, established as early as 1703. It was renamed Global Lane in the 1830s and then Globe Street before 1862. The name was finally changed to what is now known as Globe Road, between 1870-1895, adopting its name from the “Old Globe Inn” (corner of Mile End Road and Globe Road). Historically the road was a rural trackway between the hamlets of Mile End and Bethnal Green. North of Roman Road, Globe Road curves towards Old Ford Road, at the eastern boundary of the Bethnal Green village.

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Historical maps of 1819 show small houses built around Globe Road. When slum clearances increased up to 1900, initiatives to produce working-class housing schemes were explored. This was attempted by Samuel Barnett’s East End Dwellings Company with the red brick tenements around Globe Road in the 1880s. The majority of the residential development was constructed by this company between 1900 and 1906.

Character

The prevailing character of the Globe Road Conservation Area is defined by a generally homogeneous group of late Victorian dwellings. Small two storey red-brick terraces flank the eastern edge of Globe Road (north of Gawber Street) and further east, along Gawber Street and Moravian Street.

They are constructed in red brick, with arched panels over doors and windows, and the consistency of detail in the timber sash windows, doors and roof materials contributes to the coherent character of the area.

South of Gawber Street are larger dwellings of 19th century mass housing including the 4 to 5 storey blocks of Eversham, Gretton, Merceron, Shepton and Mendip Houses. Located at Globe Road and Kirkwall Place, Mendip House (1900) with square corner towers and gables complements the Globe Primary School.

The Conservation Area boundary also includes Peary Place to the southwest. This is one of the few remaining 18th century alleyways, and runs from Kirkwall Place southwards to Roman Road. Its roofline is an essential part of its character.

The most significant building in the area is the former Old Bethnal Green Fire Station on Roman Road. Built in 1888 by Robert Pearsall, the fire station was converted to the London Buddhist Centre in 1978. The much revered landmark building is Arts and Crafts Gothic in style and constructed in red brick with stone dressing and decorated in stamped terracotta.

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Land Use

The land use character of the Globe Road Conservation Area is essentially residential; the vast majority of dwellings constructed by the East End Dwelling Company. Commercial land uses also exist in the area, particularly shopping uses along Globe Road (found south of Kirkwall Place) and along this section of Roman Road.

Scale

The scale of the area can be seen as being dissected at Gawber Street. North of this are predominantly low 2 storey terraces lining the residential streetscapes. The remaining mass housing schemes south of Gawber Street range between 4-5 storeys. 2-3 storey Victorian terraced shops are located along Globe Road approaching Roman Road.

Open Space

The Globe Road Conservation Area does not contain any significant open space component.

Views

Views in the area run along street axes, including long views along Globe Road, Old Ford Road and Roman Road. The curved nature of Globe Road gradually unfolds different views of the main road and its pleasant and varied character and scales.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Globe Road is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Globe Road, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Grade II

London Buddhist Centre, 51 Roman Road

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Highways and Transportation Issues

At the south end of the area, the junction with Roman Road is heavily dominated by pedestrian barriers and other highways engineering.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

The Globe public house at 277 Globe Road is an important focal point within the area, at the junction with Sugar Loaf walk, connecting to Bethnal Green Gardens. Options should be investigated for enhancing this space as a key neighbourhood focus.

Options can be explored for redesigning the low buildings at the eastern corner between Globe Road and Bethnal Green Road to restore the skyline at this point.

Also, in general, many highways engineering interventions are inappropriate for a Conservation Area. For example, options should be explored for replacing the standard road marking solutions along Roman Road. This includes the red bus stops, cross-hatching and red central reservations, where more discreet alternatives should be sought.

The barriers at the traffic calming raised road crossing in Globe Road are intrusive in the streetscape – consideration should be given to alternative ways of improving traffic safety.

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Parks and Open Spaces

There are no significant parks or open spaces in this area, although there are several areas of green space associated with housing blocks. Maintenance of these areas, including any boundary treatments, should respect the character of the area.

Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

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Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

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Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs.

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The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

At this time we are not aware of any listed buildings at risk in the Conservation Area.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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Langdon Park

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

Langdon Park Conservation Area Page 1 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

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1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Langdon Park Conservation Area was designated in December 1990. Bounded by the Docklands Light Railway to the west, the area encloses Langdon Park itself, its primary school, and a series of locally listed Georgian terraces to its south. The focal point of the area is the Grade II listed St Michael’s Church and war memorial in its court grounds, located on St Leonard’s Road.

History

Langdon Park is located in the old borough of Poplar along a stretch of St Leonard’s Road, the main local road to St Leonard’s Church in Bromley. Historical maps indicate that in 1869, the area now occupied by Langdon Park west of St Leonard’s Road was developed with residential terraced streets – among them Arthur Street, Wellington Street and Cobden Street. At this time there was a significant Irish community living in the area. The land east of St Leonard’s Road was covered by rural farmland, and St Michael and All Angel’s Church was situated on its own in open space. By the end of the 19th century it was surrounded by new terraced housing.

In the 20th century, the area experienced considerable change. In 1959, Poplar was divided by the large Blackwall Tunnel Approach Road, which was created parallel to St Leonard’s Road. This road cut off Langdon Park from the River Lea and large areas of the neighbourhood was cleared. Langdon Park itself was originally occupied by terraced housing, and was created as open recreational space in surrounded by suburban housing.

Character

The Langdon Park area has a distinct village-like quality, despite the metropolitan architecture of the terraces and presence of the former Board School. The area lacks period buildings and so this concentration of Victorian buildings takes on a greater local importance.

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The subtle widening and bends in St Leonards Road, the asymmetrical composition of buildings, the focal point of the church, the characterful frontages of Hega House and the terraces, the trees and the small areas of green space all contribute to this character.

At the centre of the area is the Victorian church and grounds - the former St Michael and All Angels Church, built by R.W Morris in 1864-5. Grade II listed and of coloured brickwork with Gothic detailing, the church (built to replace a mission chapel in 1861) has been converted to residential use. Its asymmetrically placed clock tower is a prominent focal point in the vicinity. Adjacent to the church is a former vicarage, enclosed by a brick wall, which forms an integral part of the church site. To its south is the Grade II war memorial made of white marble.

North of the park, the Conservation Area encloses Radford House (1921), a 3-storey residential building constructed of red and yellow brick. Around the southern periphery of Langdon Park are a series of locally listed terraces, at 159-167 St Leonard’s Road. Designed in the late Georgian style and of the 1850s, the terraces are decorated with stucco dressings and the first floor windows are set in recessed round arches.

The St Leonard’s Arms Public House complements this composition of terraces. It is also locally listed and of the 1950s, and has pedimented window architraves at first floor level.

The Langdon Park School was built in 1907 in the attractive Board School style. It is 3 storeys high with copper domed turrets, and contributes to the suburban quality of the area.

Land Use

The Langdon Park Conservation Area is mixed use but predominantly residential. The Conservation Area includes the church, school, low scale housing, Langdon Park and the occasional 19th century pub, all representative of its suburban character.

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Scale

The scale of the area is predominantly low-rise, the terraces of St Leonard’s Road being 2-3 stories high and the Langdon Park Secondary School and Radford House not more than 3 stories.

Open Spaces

The position of the former church and vicarage, the bend in St Leonards Road, and the alignment of Ullin Street create two natural enclosures of public space.

The northern one, at the fork of St Leonards Road and Ullin St, is defined by the new terraced housing to the west, and by Hega House and the former church to the east. Further south along St Leonards Road, the locally listed buildings, vicarage and the former church create a distinct area of public space, focused around the war memorial.

Langdon Park provides a public green space for local residents. Although not a historic park, the park makes a valuable contribution to the low-rise, open suburban character of the area.

Views

The views towards St Michael’s Church from both north and south along St Leonards Road are significant, where the church spire plays an important role as a local landmark. As approached from the footbridge west across the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) station, the school and parklands are both visible.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Langdon Park is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Langdon Park, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Grade II

St Michaels Court, St Leonards Road War Memorial, St Leonards Road

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Locally Listed Buildings

162 St Leonards Road 159-167 St Leonards Road (odd)

Highways and Transportation Issues

St Leonards Road is the main route running north-south through the Conservation Area, and the two bus stops are important local places.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

The two natural enclosures of public space along St Leonards Road are identified in the appraisal. Options should be explored for preparing a public realm strategy for this stretch of the road, which coordinates and improves car parking, landscaping, refuse, utilities, street furniture and lighting. Options for limited mixed-use at ground floor level should also be explored, with a view to enhancing the quality and identity of this place. Any public realm strategy should recognise the rarity of this surviving piece of historic townscape.

More specifically, a few buildings in the area are in need of maintenance. The clock on the church is also not working. If restored, this would enhance its status as a local landmark. The chain-link fencing around the vicarage could be replaced with an

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enclosure, such as railings, more appropriate to the Conservation Area. Consideration should be given to introduce a local listing for Hega House, given its value to the composition of buildings around the square.

The school frontage along Bright Street is quite blank, and consideration should be given to improving this frontage where possible. In addition, the chain-link fence and timber boarding fixed to the Vicarage wall detracts from the quality of the streetscape, and thus, alternatives should be explored.

Consideration should be given to extending the Conservation Area boundary around the small area of green space in between St Leonards Road and Ullin Street. This has the potential to make a positive contribution to the area and become a ‘village green’ extension to Langdon Park itself.

Parks and Open Spaces

Langdon Park itself is the most significant public open space in the Conservation Area. Although it has limited historic value, it makes a significant contribution to the village-like-feel of St Leonards Road, and should be preserved and enhanced as a public open space. New landscaping work should consider the relationship between the park and St Leonards Road, and linkages to the proposed new DLR station.

Equalities:

Valuing diversity is one of the Council’s core values, and we take pride in being one of the most culturally rich and diverse boroughs in the UK. This core value has informed

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the preparation of this document and will continue to inform changes to this document in the future.

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

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In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

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The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

At this time we are not aware of any listed buildings at risk in the Conservation Area.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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Wentworth Street

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

Wentworth Street Conservation Area Page 1 of 16 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

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1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Wentworth Street Conservation Area was designated in October 1989. It is defined on the west side by Middlesex Street, formerly known as Petticoat Lane and the site of the medieval market. The area’s character as a mixed use residential and commercial area, and its association with the clothing industry, has endured for hundreds of years.

The area extends east along Wentworth Street, and north and south along Leyden Street, Bell Lane and Toynbee Street. Its eastern boundary extends across Commercial Road to include a small group of listed buildings.

History

Today, Middlesex Street at the western edge of this Conservation Area is the boundary with the City of London, although historically the Roman and medieval city walls were located a couple of hundred metres to the south-west. In the medieval period, this area became a densely built up district, and Petticoat Lane was an important thoroughfare running from north-west to south-east, parallel with the old city walls.

As an indication of the dense residential character of the city at this time, in 1700 the population of the City of London was approximately 200,000 as opposed to a residential population of around 24,000 today.

By the start of the 18th century the area had developed as an important centre in the garment industry, or ‘rag trade’ as it was locally known. Johann Homann’s map of London in 1705 and Rocque’s map of 1746 shows that a tenter ground existed just outside the area to the north-east, in the area bounded by White’s Row, Wentworth Street and Bell Lane. Tenter grounds were common on the outskirts of London at this time, and were areas where newly manufactured cloth was dried on frames (tenters) so that the cloth would dry flat and square.

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In 1746, Wentworth Street and Bell Lane existed as narrow yards, as was Bell Lane, but Strype Street and Cobb Street only existed as narrow yards. The area south of Wentworth Street was a warren of small passages and yards running east from Petticoat Lane, which included Marlborough Court, Three Tun Alley, Sun Court, Black Bell Alley and Horseshoe Alley.

At the end of the 18th century the large warehouses for the East India Company were built to the north-west of the site, and major changes continued in the area. In 1843-5, Commercial Street was built through this area, requiring the demolition of many houses and other buildings. Although the road was finished in 1845, many of the sites along Commercial Street took several years to be built up. The developers of the road were concerned that only appropriate uses and architecture was allowed along this route.

Most of the buildings still existing in the area date from this period of development in the 19th century. Petticoat Lane was renamed Middlesex Street, although its previous name has endured in the market. Strype Street was known as ‘Tripe Yard’ for a while. The tenter ground was built over with terraced housing on the new streets of Butlet Street, Tenter Street, Freeman Street, Palmer Street and Tilley Street. Between 1880 and 1896, the western part of Wentworth Street was widened to its current width.

Over the 1700s and 1800s a large Jewish Community moved into the area, many arriving in the late 19th century from Eastern Europe and Russia at the nearby St Katharine’s Docks to the south. By the start of the 20th century, the area was firmly established as part of the ‘Jewish East End’. Institutions such as the Jews Free School (on the site of 39 Bell Lane) and the Jewish Infant School (building still exists on Commercial Street) had been built, and the famous market established in 1883 was almost entirely Jewish.

Toynbee Street was known as Shepherd Street, but was not extended south to Wentworth Street until the early 1900s. Also around this time, the Holland Street

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estate was built by the LCC. During the Second World War many parts of the area were severely damaged by bombs and rebuilt.

The market has survived as an important defining characteristic of Wentworth Street, and today there are a large number of Bengali residents who play a vital role in the continuing life of the area.

Character

The area can be broadly divided into two character areas – a part west of Toynbee Street, and the area to the east around Commercial Street.

The Western Area around the market On Wentworth Street and the surrounding streets in the west part of the Conservation Area, the famous Petticoat Lane market still operates stalls every day. The market’s presence contributes to the liveliness and activity on the streets and part of the enduring heritage of the clothing industry in this area. The mix of other small scale businesses in the area contributes to the activity on the street.

There is a regular grid structure of streets which has its origins in several medieval lanes and passages, meaning that the block sizes are unusually small. This gives the area a permeable quality (of both movement and views) which is an important characteristic for the market which extends over several streets.

Most of the buildings in this area are 19th century mixed use buildings of 2 to 3 storeys. There are generally no setbacks to the buildings, which have a fine grain of narrow fronts. The buildings on the western edge along Wentworth Street are larger and taller, often rising to 4 storeys.

The Market Trader pub on the corner of New Goulston Street is in a brick Queen Anne or Artisan classical style with pilasters, pediments and brick aprons beneath the windows. Nos 52-72 are plain late 19th century buildings commercial buildings and on

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the north corner of Wentworth Street is an unusual corner building, stuccoed, with rusticated pilasters and a pediment on the corner. Then there is a grander commercial block at No. 82 which dates from the 1920s.

In summary, the character of the buildings varies greatly throughout the Conservation Area, but most contribute to the general low-rise, mixed use, fine grain character.

The Eastern Area around Commercial Street Several of the buildings built on Commercial Street are architecturally and historically significant, and were built to a larger size to reflect the scale and importance of the new road.

No. 43a Commercial Street was built in 1841 as the Jewish Infant School, but has since been converted to other uses. It is a distinctive 2-storey building of yellow brick with stucco quoins and decorative mouldings, and is important for its historic value as well as its contribution to the townscape. Internally, its fine metal railed stone staircases are also significant.

There are many mid to late Victorian commercial buildings of 4-5 storeys along the road, containing shops and warehouses with a variety of well-detailed elements and polychromatic brickwork. Nos 44-54 Commercial Street were built around 1868 and are significant as a little-altered example of mid-Victorian commercial premises. This area is overshadowed by the high-rise Denning Point tower.

Brody House is a robust 1930s building which has recently been refurbished.

Land Use

The most characteristic land use of area are the market stalls of the Wentworth Street / Petticoat Lane market, which expand to surrounding streets on Sundays. There are many shops and services associated with the clothing industry in the area. There are offices, small shops, and a large amount of residential accommodation in the area.

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Scale

As described above, the buildings in the west part of the area are predominantly 3-4 storeys, rising to 4-5 storeys along Commercial Street. This low-rise scale is an important characteristic of the market streets in particular.

Open Space

There are no major areas of open space in this Conservation Area, as the area consists of a network of streets. The market itself is the nearest equivalent to an open space.

Views

There are few long views in this area. The views north and south along Commercial Street are framed by the many Victorian commercial buildings. There is also an interesting view along Toynbee Street from Whites Row.

The changing short views in the streets around the market are also valuable, allowing the fine grain of the architecture to be appreciated. The small size of the urban blocks means that new views along streets open and close frequently while walking around the area.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Wentworth Street is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Wentworth Street, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Any new development should have regard to national, regional and local planning policy. At the national level, the Planning Act (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas Act) 1990 places a duty on Tower Hamlets to designate conservation areas in “areas of special architectural or historic interest”, and to formulate and publish proposals for the preservation and enhancement of its conservation areas. National policy for planning and the historic environment is set out in Planning Policy Guidance 15 (PPG15). At the regional level, policy 4B.1 of the London Spatial Development Strategy (or London Plan) states that ‘The Mayor will seek to ensure that developments … respect London’s built heritage.’ At the local level, the new Local Development Framework (LDF) of Tower Hamlets states that ‘the Council will protect and enhance the historic environment of the borough’. This is described in detail in policy CP49 of the Core Strategy of the LDF. The following frontages are identified as primary frontages in the London Central Activities Zone (CAZ): 1-79 (odd) 2-72 (even) Wentworth Street, 6 Bell Lane, 15-41 (odd) 20-42 (even) Toynbee Street, 41-47 (odd) and 40-48 (even) Goulston Street. The area lies inside the area covered by the City Fringe Area Action Plan, and within the ‘Aldgate and Spitalfields Market’ Sub-Area. The area is identified as an area of archaeological importance. Mallon Gardens, just outside the Conservation Area to the south, is identified as public open space.

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

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Grade II

43a Commercial Street 44 – 52 Commercial Street

Locally Listed Building

40 Commercial Street 54 Commercial Street

Highways and Transportation Issues

Wentworth Street and the other market streets are important for residents, commercial users and customers. Deliveries to businesses and parking needs to be managed in a way that respects and maintains the character of the street.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

West of Toynbee Street, there are relatively few buildings of significant historical value, but the consistent character of small scale, mixed use buildings should be protected.

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Consideration should be given to extending the boundary of the Conservation Area to include the Holland Estate to the north, as proposed in 1991. This would help to safeguard the character of the surrounding area, forming a coherent boundary with the Artillery Passage and Brick Lane and Fournier Street Conservation Areas.

There are several dead frontages in the area with potential to be brought back into use by small scale business and residential uses. There are also a number of single-storey infills in Commercial Street which replaced bomb-damaged buildings. These require full infill buildings which match those of Commercial Street (67 and 69)

In time, the quality of the streetscape could be improved to respect the historic character of the buildings, by reducing unnecessary highways clutter, introducing higher quality paving and more controlled parking spaces.

Parks and Open Spaces

There are no parks or significant open spaces in this area.

Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

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Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

This consultation draft document is available on our website at:

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It is also available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores in the Borough. Please call if you would like to know where to find a copy, or if you have any other questions.

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

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The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volume 27: Spitalfields and Mile End New Town. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

At this time, we are not aware of any listed buildings at risk in the Conservation Area.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area, but it is important that tall buildings in surrounding areas are not allowed to overwhelm the intimate character of the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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St Frideswide’s

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

St Frideswide’s Conservation Area Page 1 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

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1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The St Frideswide’s Conservation Area was designated in September 1993. Bounded by Follett Street, Lodore Street and St Leonard’s Road, the Conservation Area encompasses the St Frideswide’s Mission and associated buildings. This series of locally listed buildings, include the Mission Hall and St Frideswide’s Mews, Mission House and the associated Christ Church and 18 Follett Street. Its designation highlights its historic and architectural significance and assures that its special character is retained.

History

In 1881, resident members of Christ Church College, Oxford resolved to support the establishment of missions in the East End throughout the 19th century, of which Toynbee is the most famous. The purpose of the missions was two-fold; for food provision and to enrich the mind, housed in ennobling architecture. St Frideswide’s Mission is an example of such, in a design clearly influenced by the then fashionable Queen Anne Movement.

The founding committee was presided over by the then Dean, Dr H.G Liddell, and the first church consisted of two joint rooms in a house, measuring 20 feet by 12 feet, along Lodore Street. The mission developed slowly, using the cottages already there on the site. By 1892, an aisled church dedicated to St Frideswide had been built on the corner of Follett Street and Lodore Street. The mission attracted the attention of Miss Catherine Phillimore, who paid for the new mission buildings constructed on the same site.

Opened on February 11, 1893, the St Frideswide’s Mission House was devoted to a girl’s and mother’s group, with the western part of the building set aside to house the nuns within an oratory. The clergy of the church lived in the cottages on the north side of Follett Street in Christ Church House. But when this became too small, a new

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Clergy House was built on site, on the corner of Follett Street and St Leonard’s Road, again to a design by Messrs Clarkson.

The work of the mission continued to expand and in 1899 Miss Phillimore paid for the construction of another building at the present 18 Follett Street, the Jerusalem Coffee House. It was opened in 1900 and later became the Hostel of the Poplar Association for Befriending Girls.

Character

The character of the St Frideswide’s Conservation Area is defined by a group of mid to late 19th century Victorian buildings. Constructed in yellow and red stock brick with stone dressings and slate pitched roofs, the former mission buildings have been internally renovated for residential use. The materials, window details, slate roofs and railings all contribute to the character of this area.

Located opposite to more recently built council estates, the local listings ensure that the area’s historical interest and character is protected. The mature trees on Lodore Street make a positive contribution to the quality of the streetscape, and the setting of the St Frideswide buildings.

Land Use

The land use character of the St Frideswide’s Conservation Area is predominantly residential. The former St Frideswide’s Mission House and Hall were converted and now occupied for residential use.

Scale

The existing scale of the area is predominantly low, with the mission buildings ranging between 2-4 storeys.

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Open Space

The St Frideswide’s Conservation Area is defined by a hard building edge and hence does not contain any significant open space component.

Views

Views in the area run along street axes, including the long views through Follett Street (towards All Saints) and Lodore Street. The locally listed building at 18 Follett Street terminates the street view down Lodore Street.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of St Frideswide’s is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In St Frideswide’s, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Locally Listed Building

St Frideswides Mission Hall, Lodore Street Tabard Court, 1 Lodore Street 18 Follett Street

Highways and Transportation Issues

The quality of the streetscape, the surface materials, street furniture and other features can all be integral parts of the character of conservation areas. Any work

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carried out should respect this historic character. Anyone involved in development which impacts on public spaces should refer to the Council’s street design guide and English Heritage’s ‘Streets for All’ document. The ongoing cost of maintenance should also be considered carefully.

Despite the major routes in the surrounding area, the key streets within the Conservation Area – Follett St and Lodore St – are both quiet and residential in character.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

There is potential for the surrounding public realm to be enhanced, to improve the setting of the locally listed buildings. Improvements should be subtle, and respect the quality and character of the surrounding buildings.

While the mission buildings are largely intact, there has been development in the area which was not sensitive to these buildings, and any future redevelopment or refurbishment of adjacent sites should respect the historic buildings in the area.

Parks and Open Spaces

There are no parks or open spaces in this small Conservation Area, although as described in the Appraisal, the trees on Lodore St make a positive contribution to the quality of the street.

St Frideswide’s Conservation Area Page 10 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Tower Hamlets website. Carrying out works to trees without the necessary approval can be a criminal offence, and the Council welcomes early requests for advice.

Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

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increasing the attractiveness of the area to tourists and visitors etc. However, it should be noted that economic reasons alone will not in themselves justify the demolition or alteration of a listed building or building in a Conservation Area.

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

St Frideswide’s Conservation Area Page 12 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Enforcement Strategy:

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

At this time we are not aware of any listed buildings at risk in the Conservation Area.

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Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

St Frideswide’s Conservation Area Page 14 of 14 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Myrdle Street

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

Myrdle Street Conservation Area Page 1 of 15 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

Myrdle Street Conservation Area Page 2 of 15 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Myrdle Street Conservation Area Page 3 of 15 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Myrdle Street Conservation Area was designated in November 1996. Located west of The Royal London Hospital and extending southwards from Whitechapel Road, the heart of the Conservation Area is found to the west of New Road, presenting a Georgian street scene and early 19th century terraces of Myrdle Street and Parfett Street.

History Myrdle Street and Parfett Street and the surrounding area provide a good illustration of the way in which areas develop over time, with development and redevelopment occurring simultaneously. In Roque’s Map of 1746, the area is shown as open fields with the Whitechapel Mount being the only feature of note. This was the remains of earthworks built by Parliament to protect London during the Civil War of 1642.

The development of the London Hospital from 1751 on its site on Whitechapel Road provided the impetus for the development of the area. Following the construction of the hospital, the area became the focus for the development of an estate to help fund its running. The area’s development prompted the cutting of New Road through the hospital estate around 1772, creating a north-south route between Whitechapel and Wapping. Its line roughly traces the City’s Civil War defences. In the 1790s, a grid of new streets were laid out to the south of the hospital and west of New Road, offering housing for rental. Whilst started in the late 18th century, these roads were not completed until 1824. In 1799, only part of the Conservation Area was built up; Gloucester Street which later became Nottingham Place and eventually Parfett Street had started, but York Street, later to become Myrdle Street had not yet begun. New Road was partially built up; but to the east of this were open fields. By 1819 Horwoods Map shows what is known now as Myrdle Street and the expansion of the hospital estate to the east of New Road. Commercial Road dating from 1810 is also indicated, although still known at its western end as White Horse Lane.

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Later development and redevelopment of sites resulted in pockets of Victorian and Edwardian development amongst primarily Georgian terraces. Elsewhere within the area, alleys and courts were swept away and replaced by model dwellings such as Fieldgate Mansions. Turn of the century properties mark the entrances to Myrdle Street and Parfett Street from Fieldgate Street. Here, the alleys to the courts have been replaced by corner properties and properly identified streets. Development since the turn of the century is likely to have been the result of redevelopment following war damage and slum clearance. The area supports a number of substantial 1930s and 1950s developments such as Myrdle Court.

Character

The Myrdle Street Conservation Area is characterised by high density development and a variety of types and sizes of property ranging from terraced houses to mansion blocks, dating from the late 18th century onwards. These vary in scale and quality but were essentially always affordable housing. However, despite the variety of building types and ages, the area retains some degree of homogeneity as a result of the terraced form and the hard urban landscape. The buildings are either set hard on the back edge of the pavement or behind small front areas and railings, creating a street scene of sheer vertical edges. Hence, the area projects a hard, urban image, especially given the lack of soft landscaping. The late 18th century terraces of Myrdle Street and Parfett Street have hardly been altered externally, retaining the Georgian street scene and historic fabric and character of the area.

Despite the existence of one or two inappropriate developments and empty sites, the area retains a cohesive character with much of the historic urban fabric remaining. This includes a consistent parapet line with no mansards.

Land Use

The land use character of the Conservation Area is essentially residential, infused with combined areas of retail and housing, notably along New Road and Fieldgate Street.

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The area also supports a variety of retail, commercial and educational uses, in the form of the Grade II listed Madni Secondary School and Whitechapel Centre.

Scale

Properties on New Road are among the largest in scale, together with those on Settles Street and are of 4 and 5 storeys with basement. Those on secondary residential roads running parallel to New Road and Settles Street are smaller, for example properties in Myrdle Street are of two storeys plus attic and basement, whilst Parfett Street consists of 3 storey terraces.

Open Space

The Myrdle Street Conservation Area is defined by a hard building edge and hence does not contain any significant open space component. The largest open space is the grounds of the school, which includes several trees which make a positive contribution to the character of the area and provide relief from the narrow enclosure of the other streets.

Views

Long views run along major street axes, such as along Whitechapel Road, New Road and Commercial Road, with local views down side streets such as Myrdle Street and Parfett Street terminated by the imposing Tower House. Views through Settles Street and Fordham Street, along with Myrdle Street and Parfett Street highlight the uniformity of the streetscapes of terraces with common scale, parapet line, roofscape and pattern of fenestration.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Myrdle Street is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Myrdle Street, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Grade II

Madni Secondary Girls’ School, Myrdle Street (formerly known as Grenfell School) 8-28 (even) Myrdle Street 40-42 (even) Myrdle Street 15-21 (odd) Parfett Street 37-53 (odd) Parfett Street 34-60 (even) Parfett Street

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22-26 (even) Parfett Street 116-130 (even) Cannon Street Road 15-21 (odd) New Road 63-65 (odd) New Road 77-79 (odd) New Road 24-32 New Road 33-47 (odd) New Road 2-16 (even) Walden Street

Locally Listed Buildings

119-123 (odd) Cannon Street Road 18-20 (even) New Road 23-35 (odd) Parfett Street

Highways and Transportation Issues

In this Conservation Area the residential streets are very narrow, and even small street furniture has a large impact on the quality of the streetscape. At the southern end, Commercial Road is heavily trafficked, and forms a barrier to north-south movement.

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Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

In several parts of the Conservation Area, the furniture and equipment associated with refuse collection have started to dominate the street scene. This is due to the intimate scale of the streets and the high residential densities. This is particularly evident in Parfett St, where the bins are the predominant street feature. Alternative ways of dealing with refuse collection in a more subtle way should be investigated, possibly involving the re-building of small front walls to hide bins.

Commercial Road is a heavily trafficked route which forms a barrier to north-south movement. Options could be investigated for calming the traffic and improving the pedestrian environment through coordination of surfaces, street furniture and lighting. There are many small businesses along this route, which are part of the historic character of the area. Any new proposals should be sensitive to the requirements of local businesses for deliveries and other road uses.

There are a number of listed buildings at risk in this area, which are described in detail below. In addition, a number of unlisted buildings on Varden St are also unoccupied. Options for bringing these buildings back into use should be investigated urgently.

Parks and Open Spaces

There are no significant parks or open spaces in this Conservation Area, although as described in the Appraisal an area of green space behind Madni School, and several trees in the street, are all important parts of the character of the area.

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Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

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In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

Myrdle Street Conservation Area Page 13 of 15 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

24 and 26 New Road E1 Priority – C (C) Designation – Listed Grade II, Conservation Area Condition - Fair. Vacant Ownership - Unknown

Summary Early C19 terraced houses

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126 Cannon Street Road E1 Priority – C (C) Designation – Listed Grade II Condition - Poor. Vacant Ownership - Private

Summary Late C18 terraced house. Yellow brick with ground floor channelled stucco. Painted facades. Building occupied, but in need of extensive repairs.

4-16 (even) Walden Street E1 Priority – C (C) Designation – Listed Grade II, Conservation Area Condition - Fair, Vacant Ownership - Company

Summary Terrace of seven early C19 houses. Two storeys with round arched entrances and panelled doors with fanlights. Currently vacant and boarded up.

Action Proposed to Secure:

To be written after public consultation.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

Myrdle Street Conservation Area Page 15 of 15

Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Whitechapel Market

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

Whitechapel Market Conservation Area Page 1 of 16 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

Whitechapel Market Conservation Area Page 2 of 16 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Whitechapel Market Conservation Area Page 3 of 16 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Whitechapel Market Conservation Area was designated in June 1997. The Conservation Area lies between Cambridge Heath Road to the east, Vallance Road to the west, Whitechapel Road to the south and Durward Street to the north. Many of the buildings fronting Whitechapel Road are of architectural and historical importance, and Whitechapel Road itself is an important and historically significant movement route within East London. The street market, which runs along the Whitechapel Road frontage, brings character and vitality to the area.

History

Whitechapel derived its name from a 13th century stone chapel, which later became the parish church of St Mary Whitechapel in 1338. This building was situated in the nearby Whitechapel High Street Conservation Area to the south-west, and lay beside the ancient main road to Essex and the Harwick crossing to the continent.

Whitechapel soon developed as a medieval suburb on the eastern fringe of the City of London, along the Whitechapel Road. A contrast in the levels of prosperity between this area and Whitechapel High Street to the south-west was evident, and the High Street is said to have been paved from the early 16th century.

Gascoyne’s map of 1703 shows that there were no buildings on the site, until approximately ten years later, a large development bounded by Whitechapel Road, Dog Row, Court Street and Ducking Pond Row was completed. The establishment of the Royal London Hospital in 1750 initiated the growth of the Whitechapel area, in terms of its commercial and residential use. Modest suburban development sprang up around the hospital. During the 18th and particularly in the 19th centuries, the trade and manufacturing industries expanded from the City into the Whitechapel area. Located on the north side of Whitechapel Road, the history of the market goes back as far as the last two hundred years, reiterating its integral part of Whitechapel.

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By the late 19th century, a Jewish community had established itself following an influx of refugees from Eastern Europe. Also at this time, the rapid, largely unplanned growth of this part of London caused Whitechapel to suffer from overcrowding and destitution. An Ordnance Survey map shows that, by 1868, the uniformity of the terrace facing Whitechapel Road had been eroded by extensions, rebuilding and infilling. Ground floors were used as shops mostly selling food and furniture, associated with the “rag trade” from the 1930s.

The area was extensively damaged by bombs in World War II, although housing in the bomb-damaged areas to the east took priority over the reconstruction of commercial premises along Whitechapel Road. Despite the bombing, a number of historic buildings remain in the area.

By the late mid 20th century, the Jewish community was dispersing towards the suburbs and a new community of immigrants, predominantly Bangladeshi, was arriving in the area, a movement which gathered momentum in the 1970s. Today, the market is an important local centre, and borders the major redevelopment of the London Hospital to the south.

Today, the area is a significant centre within Tower Hamlets, destined to become a national health centre and an important public transport interchange with the construction of Crossrail. Also within the area is the new Whitechapel Ideas Store, which was shortlisted for the Stirling Prize / Building of the Year award in 2006.

Character

The Whitechapel Road frontage is significant because it is a sustained stretch of fine- grain historic buildings, with a variety of architectural design approaches. Some 18th century buildings still survive, reflecting the older framework of the original market place and commercial architecture of the time. 18th century buildings include the Grade II-listed Woods buildings, and the former brewery. There are also 19th century buildings, and the frontage demonstrates a good variety of Victorian architecture. Whitechapel Underground Station is centrally located in the shopping frontage,

Whitechapel Market Conservation Area Page 5 of 16 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines serving as a focal point for pedestrian movement. One of the older Underground stations in London, the station was built in 1902, an attractive 3 storey building constructed of white glazed brickwork. Although many shopfronts have been replaced with incongruous modern fascias, above ground level many buildings retain their original features – arches, keystones, segmental pediments, dormers, and bay windows – which give this row of buildings a rich character. This richness is accentuated when it forms part of long oblique views along the road.

The main focus of the Whitechapel Market Conservation Area is the market itself and the row of buildings adjoining the market between Vallance Road and Brady Street. The market area consists of a very broad pavement, with stalls lining the Whitechapel Road roadside. The stalls occupying the pavement present a virtually unbroken line from Vallance Road to Cambridge Heath Road. These are permanent pitches taken up by traders.

The platforms of Whitechapel Station are located in low-level cuttings behind the market frontage. To the north-east of the site is an area of new residential development on Durward Street, having provision for commercial use on ground floor with residential above. The quiet space in front of the former school on Durward Street is a contrast to the vibrant street market on Whitechapel Road.

A variety of traditional materials are used in the area, including natural slate, red and yellow stock bricks. Many shopfronts have been replaced with modern fascias.

Land Use

The land use character of the Whitechapel Market Conservation Area is of mixed use. The townscape flanking Whitechapel Road is characterised as mainly commercial at the Whitechapel Road frontage with offices and residential flats on upper floors. The market is one of the Borough’s main local shopping areas.

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Scale

The existing scale along Whitechapel Road north is predominantly low-rise, ranging between 2-4 storeys.

Open Space

The Whitechapel Market Conservation Area is defined by a hard building edge along Whitechapel Road, and the largest open space is the market itself, stretching along a wide area of pavement. The poor management of van parking arrangements, and the dominance of highways engineering all detract from the quality of this important public space.

Views

Views in the area run along street axes, including the long views east and west through Whitechapel Road, highlighting the historic street frontages along Whitechapel Road north and exposing the colourful open space market activity. The London Hospital site to the south is the main visual landmark within the Whitechapel area.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

This is an inclusive document which will engage with many different people and organisations. It will depend on the support of the community to achieve its objectives. The Plan is aimed primarily at the residents, businesses, developers and other organisations living and working in the conservation areas. Conservation Areas belong to their residents, as well as the whole community, and their priorities will be reflected in these documents after the consultation process.

The document has also been prepared to align conservation objectives within different parts of the council, and provide a single point of reference for the management of the area. It represents a shared commitment to conserve the special architectural and historic character, and to manage sensitive, appropriate new development and refurbishment to successfully preserve and enhance the quality of the area.

Outline Guidance on Applications

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Whitechapel Market is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Whitechapel Market, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Any new development should have regard to national, regional and local planning policy. At the national level, the Planning Act (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas Act) 1990 places a duty on Tower Hamlets to designate conservation areas in “areas of special architectural or historic interest”, and to formulate and publish proposals for the preservation and enhancement of its conservation areas. National policy for planning and the historic environment is set out in Planning Policy Guidance 15 (PPG15). At the regional level, policy 4B.1 of the London Spatial Development Strategy (or London Plan) states that ‘The Mayor will seek to ensure that developments … respect London’s built heritage.’ At the local level, the new Local Development Framework (LDF) of Tower Hamlets states that ‘the Council will protect and enhance the historic environment of the borough’. This is described in detail in policy CP49 of the Core Strategy of the LDF. The Whitechapel Market area lies just inside the area covered by the City Fringe Area Action Plan. Whitechapel is identified as a Sub-Area, which identifies the area as an employment-led mixed use area, and makes proposals for improving the public realm along Whitechapel Road. The large-scale redevelopment of the London Hospital lies south of the road. The buildings along Whitechapel Road are identified as a primary frontage within the district centre. The area is identified as an area of archaeological importance. The Conservation Area also lies within the area for the more detailed Whitechapel Masterplan. The London Cycle Network Plus runs from west to east along Whitechapel Road at the southern edge of the Conservation Area.

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Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Grade II

Parish boundary marker at corner with Fulbourne Street K2 Telephone Kiosk opposite London Hospital, Whitechapel Road King Edward VII Jewish Memorial Drinking Fountain opposite main entrance to the London Hospital, Whitechapel Road 261-263 Whitechapel Road 265-267 Whitechapel Road Albion Health Centre, 333 Whitechapel Road K2 Telephone Kiosk outside Albion Brewery, Whitechapel Road

Locally Listed

255 Whitechapel Road 257 Whitechapel Road 259 Whitechapel Road 279 Whitechapel Road

Highways and Transportation Issues

Whitechapel Road is the main movement route along the southern edge of the Conservation Area, and improvements are being considered as part of the Whitechapel Masterplan process.

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Whitechapel Station is a significant public transport interchange, with several bus routes, the District Line, Hammersmith and City Line, and the East London Line. It is also identified as an interchange with the proposed Crossrail link.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

The area is identified for major redevelopment, representing a significant opportunity to improve the pedestrian and cycle environment, and improve the setting of the historic buildings to the north side of the road. As with all street markets, variety and spontaneity are essential parts of the character of the place, and management therefore requires a light touch to avoid imposing uniformity on the area. However, opportunities for preserving the historic buildings along the north side of the road, and for rationalizing the servicing/van parking arrangements to the market, should be investigated.

Almost all of the buildings on the north side of the road, although run-down, would show their attractive character with careful repair.

New development associated with new railway links should be of high design quality, and should respect the distinct identity and sense of place that exists along this stretch of Whitechapel Road.

The Conservation Area could be extended westwards to include the west side of Vallance Road, including the corner group of buildings.

Parks and Open Spaces

There are no significant parks in the area, although views to mature trees on Whitechapel Road should be protected.

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Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

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Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

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Enforcement Strategy:

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

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Listed Buildings at Risk:

At this time we are not aware of any listed buildings at risk in this Conservation Area.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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Balfron Tower

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

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Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

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1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Balfron Tower Conservation Area was designated in October 1998 around the two residential blocks designed by Erno Goldfinger for the London County Council in the 1960s. The Conservation Area boundary protects the listed Balfron Tower and Carradale House, and other buildings in the ‘Brownfield Estate’, including Glenkerry House, a community centre, shops and associated low-rise housing development.

The 27-storey Balfron Tower is Goldfinger’s first public housing project, and a precursor to his better known Trellick Tower in North Kensington. The neighbouring Carradale House and Glenkerry House sit within the landscaped areas developed at the same time. The Brownfield Estate (also known as the East India Estate) is now recognised as a fine example of planned 1960s social housing. Considered to be exemplary examples of the post-war housing schemes, Balfron Tower and Carradale House were listed in 1998 for their cultural & architectural merit.

History

Characteristic of the many areas in the Borough, the land currently defined by the boundaries of the Balfron Tower Conservation Area was once occupied by a grid of tightly-knit terraced housing. St Leonard’s Road, once the main route through the old Borough of Poplar, runs through the centre of the Conservation Area. Much of this old residential area to the west of old Brunswick Road was lost when the Blackwall Tunnel Northern Approach Road carved through the 19th century terraces.

The area identified for the Brownfield Estate was planned in 1951-2, but not acquired by the London County Council and Poplar Municipal Borough until 1959. In 1963, the LCC invited the celebrated modernist architect Ernö Goldfinger to design the first building on the site. Originally known as ‘Rowlett Street Phase I’, Balfron Tower was constructed by the Greater London Council between 1965-7. It was followed by the Goldfinger-designed, 11-storey Carradale House, and later the more simply detailed, 14-storey Glenkerry House (Rowlett Street Phase II & III respectively), both completed

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in the early 1970s. The low-rise housing to the west of Glenkerry was built at the same time as part of the Stage-III development works. Development adjacent to the Conservation Area is a mix of uninspiring LCC/GLC social housing.

The estate suffered from a lack of maintenance and social problems throughout the 1980s and 1990s, now reflected in the condition of the building fabric and associated landscaping. Security was improved in the early 1990s with the introduction of CCTV cameras and a concierge service. Some of the features added to the ground floor of Balfron Tower in the late 1990s were designed by architect James Dunnett, who had worked with Goldfinger on the Rowlett Street Phase I & II designs.

The Balfron Tower Conservation Area was designated in 1998 with the support of English Heritage, in order to secure the protection of the environment around the Goldfinger towers, including control over the demolition of unlisted buildings which form part of a planned group in the area.

Character

The Balfron Tower Conservation Area mainly consists of the low and high-rise council flats of the Brownfield Estate. It lies to the north-east of Lansbury, the Festival of Britain’s Architectural Exhibition site, which was developed in 1951 following similar slum clearance. Balfron Tower dominates this landmark development and is representative of the post-war aspirations for good quality public housing. The tower is a significant realisation of many design concepts of the modern movement, expressing the social idealism of the time.

The 11-storey Carradale House houses 88 flats and sits perpendicular to Balfron Tower, creating the suggestion of a large courtyard. A row of two-storey terraced maisonettes lining St Leonard’s Road were built in the early 1970s and further enclose the landscaped space to the east. This landscaped space was included within the Conservation Area to allow a greater level of control over future development.

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Glenkerry House, although not designed by Goldfinger himself, was a product of the Goldfinger Studio and forms a boundary between the low-rise housing along Burcham Street and the listed buildings to the east. Although the estate comprises a collection of buildings of various scales, the architectural character of the area is cohesive, adopting a restricted palette of building materials and architectural elements, such as windows, in a considered and sophisticated manner.

It should be noted that Balfron Tower originally had a boiler room with windows at the top of the service shaft, much like the one on Glenkerry House. This was removed in 1985 due to concrete decay, as were the boiler flutes that were replaced in metal as opposed to the original concrete.

Land Use

Principally residential, many of the housing units are council owned and leased. Some leaseholders have purchased their flats under the government’s right to buy scheme. The commercial uses include shops, a launderette and a community centre, known locally as “the club”.

Open Spaces

The landscaped areas surrounding the Goldfinger towers form part of the original design for the estate and fall within the curtilage of the listed towers. Any alteration to the landscaping will require listed building consent, and should be based on an understanding of the original design intent to ensure that the significance of the buildings is not compromised by insensitive work.

Scale

The scale of buildings in the Conservation Area varies from high rise tower blocks to the single storey commercial pavilions and two-storey terraced flats. The arrangement of the buildings means that there is little scope for new development within the Conservation Area.

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Views

The key vistas include views south along St Leonard’s Road from Balfron Tower and Carradale House, and striking views across the Borough. The view of the towers from the Langdon Park area is also a high quality view. The tower blocks are clearly visible from East India Dock Road, and have long been considered landmark buildings in London’s East End. The adjacent open space of Jolly’s Green provides an appropriate ‘forecourt’ to Carradale House and the northern edge of the Conservation Area. Most vehicular entrances into the Conservation Area are framed by the buildings of the estate.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Balfron Tower is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Balfron Tower, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

Grade II

Carradale House, St Leonard’s Road Balfron Tower, St Leonard’s Road

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Highways and Transportation Issues

The area suffers from its proximity to the major Blackwall Tunnel Approach Road.

Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

More detailed guidance should be produced on the management of small scale refurbishment works to individual flats or maisonettes, in order to protect the character of the original fabric. For example, the doors to the maisonettes on Burcham St and St Leonard’s Road incorporate a distinctive semi-circular window at the top of the door, which should generally be retained.

There is potential for improvement in the car park at the east end of the Conservation Area, and in general the quality of paving, signage, street furniture, lighting and open spaces should be improved where necessary. The children’s play area remains derelict and detracts from the quality of the area.

96 Burcham Street has no windows to the road and is situated in the middle of a grass area just outside Glenkerry House. It prevents the open space from being open and a sheer brick façade makes the area uninviting. This can also be said of 100 Burcham Street that currently houses a laundrette and newsagents. Air conditioning units are also placed on the outside of this building and detract from the Conservation Area and Glenkerry House.

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The bin stores in front of the houses in Burcham Street are later additions to the Conservation Area and are detached from the houses. They create a walkway in front of the doors of the houses and prevent anyone entering the houses from seeing if there is anyone standing next to their front door. Burglars have broken in to first floor properties by climbing on top of the bin stores that are currently locked because of vandalism. If possible, these bin stores should be removed, as they are unused and detract from the original building and threaten the house owners’ safety.

The Borough’s land use policies seek to enhance the character and vitality of the area through any future development. Planning permission will not be granted to expand or intensify non-residential uses where this would harm the residential character of the Conservation Area. The retention of community uses for community buildings within the area will be encouraged.

Parks and Open Spaces

The area between Balfron Tower and Carradale House is at best, good, and at worst, appalling for a Conservation Area. Outside Carradale House there are mature trees and grass, even the concrete is well maintained. The area at the base of the front of Balfron Tower is badly maintained and suffers from the constant rubbish being thrown out of the balconies above. The access to the basement of Balfron Tower, through a door behind the shop at number 76 St. Leonard’s Road is also broken and causes a detrimental affect on the Conservation Area, as does this area in general.

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Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

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In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

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buildings within a Conservation Area. Unauthorised work to a listed Building is a criminal offence and could result in a fine and/or imprisonment. Likewise, unauthorised substantial or complete demolition of a building within a Conservation Area is also illegal. It is therefore essential to obtain Conservation Area or Listed Building Consent before works begin.

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs. The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

At this time we are not aware of any listed buildings at risk in this Conservation Area.

Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Whitechapel High Street

Conservation Area

1. Character Appraisal

2. Management Guidelines

London Borough of Tower Hamlets 24 October 2006

Whitechapel High Street Conservation Area Page 1 of 19 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines

Introduction

This draft guide has been prepared for comment by the local community for the following purposes:

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1. Character Appraisal

Overview

The Whitechapel High Street Conservation Area was designated in September 1998. It marks the western end of the A11, an ancient route linking the City with Essex and Continental Europe via Harwich. The new parish of Whitechapel, originally part of Stepney, developed as a suburb of London around this ancient route, taking its name from the white-washed walls of the 13th century chapel (the parish church of St Mary). The road frontage of Whitechapel High Street reflects a consistently intensive use throughout the Borough’s history.

The boundaries of the conservation area follow the historic footprint of buildings set on long, narrow plots, some amalgamated in two’s and three’s, but always with a street frontage narrow in relation to their depth. More contemporary buildings, set on plots with a far wider street frontage are considered interruptions to the fine grain of the historic fabric and have been omitted from the conservation area. The area contains individually significant buildings, and collectively the surviving pre-war townscape is of historic and architectural importance, worthy of preservation and enhancement.

History

The old Roman Road to Colchester left the city walls at Aldgate, one of the historic gateways into the City of London. In the medieval period, when it was known as ‘Alegatestrete’, the road was moved to its present-day alignment following the foundation of Bow Bridge in 1110. Archaeological evidence has revealed that a thriving suburb had been established by the end of the Saxon Period and continued to grow as a ribbon development along the north side of the highway, catering for travellers and accommodating the ‘nuisance’ trades which had been refused permission to work in the congested city. Fields to the south of the road were quarried during the 13th and 14th centuries for gravel and brick earth, used by local industries for making pots and casting bells. At the same time the green land to the east was rapidly covered by streets and housing, the village expanding enough to require its own chapel.

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Constructed in 1250-1286, the first chapel of ease to St Dunstan of Stepney gave Whitechapel its name. Rebuilt in the C14 as St Mary Matfelon to accommodate the steadily growing population, it became the parish church of St Mary Whitechapel when the area became a separate parish in 1338. The church was rebuilt in 1669, and again after excavations in 1874.

Fueled by the river trade, the suburbs of Whitechapel, Spitalfields, Wapping, Ratcliffe and Limehouse were largely built over by the end of the 1500s and by the 17th century Whitechapel High Street was lined with coaching inns and the impressive houses of rich merchants. The courtyards of many coaching inns still survive today, for example Green Dragon Yard, Angel Alley and Gunthorpe Street.

The increasing size and affluence of the City drew people from Essex, Suffolk and beyond, with properties subdivided and crowded, marking the first emergence of the East End slums. Ogilvy and Morgan’s map recorded that by 1677 the area was densely developed in a form which set the pattern for subsequent development, still recognizable today.

The construction of the enclosed docks in the 19th century saw the expansion of industry in the borough. Commercial Road was created in 1802-7 to link the docks with the City, and by 1864 Whitechapel became home to the country’s sugar refineries, employing German migrants and processing the raw material imported through the West India Docks. The refineries survived in Whitechapel until the 1870s when the business went into decline, making way for warehousing after the construction of railway links to the docks.

The Victorian East End accommodated a spread of industries and crafts from the City and manufacturing of every sort was as often undertaken at home and in small workshops as it was in larger purpose-built factories. Some continued the traditions of earlier centuries – many of London’s arms makers kept workshops in Whitechapel to be close to the armouries of the Tower and the Proof House of the Gunmaker’s Co. Other industries, including tobacco, breweries and engineering workshops were also located in the area. The silk-making industry, in decline since the late C18, evolved

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into a massive clothing industry employing large numbers of Jewish refugees from Eastern Europe in the 1870s. Overcrowded slums housed the working class in appalling conditions and Whitechapel became synonymous with poverty and destitution. The back streets were a maze of disreputable yards and courts, forming the backdrop to the infamous Whitechapel murders. The area eventually became the focus for Victorian philanthropic endeavour, galvanized by Samuel Barnett of St Jude’s Whitechapel, founder of Toynbee Hall and Whitechapel Art Gallery.

The first major re-planning of the area occurred in 1865. Commercial Road extended from the West India Docks as far as the junction with Union Street (now Whitechurch Lane). It was extended in 1865 to join Whitechapel High Street at ’Gardiner’s Corner’, named after the department store that dominated the junction until it was destroyed by fire in the early 70s. A fragment of pilastered wall forming the flank of the remnant terrace on Drum Street is all that survives of the East End landmark. This major road junction, busy even in the C19, was replaced by a gyratory system in 1976, compromising pedestrian movement through the area, and creating a poorly defined, illegible, car-dominated environment.

Whitechapel was drastically altered by bomb damage during the Second World War. The church of St Mary of Whitechapel was destroyed in the 1940 air raids and later demolished, and by the mid-C20 the character of the area was beginning to change. As the area was designated for commercial use, redevelopment immediately following the war had a lower priority than the urgent need for new housing further east. Despite the level of reconstruction, a surprising amount of older fabric remains as evidence of the historic character.

Character

The piecemeal development of London’s East End contrasts with the planning that occurred in the west of the city. Victorian East London was characterized by densely built urban communities, with houses crowded into rambling narrow streets, courts and winding alleys, mixed in with the industry that provided employment. Development in Whitechapel accumulated around brickyards and tenter grounds, a townscape

Whitechapel High Street Conservation Area Page 6 of 19 Appendix B – Draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Guidelines character which survives to this day in the small streets and narrow passages of the conservation area. The townscape is further typified by small-scale, single and double- fronted properties lining Whitechapel and Commercial Roads. Rebuilding has taken place many times over the same sites, resulting in overlays of building forms and styles, often contained and/or hidden within the structure and fabric of the building. The resulting variety of architecture over successive periods contributes to the historic interest and cultural significance of the area, although historically buildings were developed at a relatively small scale and made a positive contribution to the townscape as a whole.

The area is characterized by a number of building materials. There is conspicuous use of red and yellow stock brick on many buildings, and decorative glazed terracotta on public buildings. Painted brickwork is uncharacteristic of the area and is detrimental to the overall cohesiveness of the streetscape. Substantial shopfronts used to exist at ground floor level, mostly in timber. Within the variations in style, most buildings betray their original local significance through the architectural pretensions of their builders in decorations or elaborations. These survive in the form of stucco, brick or stone window dressings above ground floor level.

Buildings

Built in 1897–99, The Whitechapel Art Gallery opened to the public as the East End Art Gallery in 1901, founded by the social reformer and missionary Canon Samuel Augustus Barnett and his wife Henrietta. Designed by Arts and Crafts architect Charles Harrison Townsend, the gallery survives as one of the few examples of Art Nouveau architecture in London. The painted panel above the arch was originally intended to support a mosaic by Walter Crane, but was never executed.

The adjacent Whitechapel Library was established in 1891-2 as one of three free libraries in the East End by Passmore Edwards, and was acquired by the gallery in 2003, forming part of its future redevelopment plans.

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The Whitechapel Bell Foundry, established in 1570, is the oldest manufacturing company in the UK, and has been casting bells for over 400 years. Some of the more notable of these include Big Ben, Philadelphia’s Liberty Bell and those for Westminster Abbey. The foundry, house and shop moved across Whitechapel Road to the present site in 1738, and today form one of the most significant building groups of its kind in London.

Central House (London Metropolitan University) 1963-64 dominates the eastern edge of the Commercial Road / Whitechapel High Street intersection, and Pevsner (The Buildings of England, London 5: East) has noted it as one of the few post-war efforts to trial new working conditions in multi-purpose buildings in the East End. The building also provides a transition in scale between the encroaching City development to the west and the more intimate historic scale of the buildings lining Whitechapel High Street.

Land Use

The area’s traditional ‘high street’ role, serving the retail needs of the local neighbourhood, has declined in recent years, partly due to the spread of office development on the city fringe and partly due to changing retail patterns. Nevertheless, largely driven by the area’s proximity to the City, Whitechapel has retained its commercial / retail land uses. The area is still characterized by small-scale retail and industrial enterprises, despite the development of some large offices. The contrast between the two can be traced along a line where the sheer sides of corporate city development drop down to meet the smaller scaled and finer-grained townscape in ‘peripheral’ usage.

Open Space

Altab Ali Park, formerly St Mary’s Gardens, sits on the site of the White Chapel Church Yard, renamed in 1989 after a young Bengali man was murdered nearby in a racist attack on 4 May 1978. The contemporary iron gateway erected directly behind the C19 gothic gatepiers (the only surviving element of the historic church) was

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commissioned by the Borough to commemorate the ‘turning point in the struggle against racism that his death marked’. As the main public open space in the area, the park lies in a visible location and is a popular destination during the summer months.

Scale

The Whitechapel High Street Conservation Area provides a notable contrast, arising from historic and economic roots, with the City of London. The area is seen as a definable boundary between the commercial development pressures encroaching from the City to the west, and the historic communities of the east.

The Whitechapel High Street road frontage is typified by narrow plot widths with terraces punctuated by alleys leading to a jumble of infill buildings, some of which front onto narrow passages and backland courts. Solutions adopted historically to maximize usage of limited and restrictive sites included the construction of tall buildings relative to their plot width. The buildings are therefore generally between 3-5 storeys, often adopting mansard roofs to further maximize internal space. Variations in the width, height and style of buildings have developed gradually within plots over time, allowing a variety of buildings to exist as a harmonious and cohesive group in a dense urban context.

Views

Drum Street survives as a remnant of the 1865-70 Commercial Road extension. Its retention, the conservation of the small terrace along its northern edge and the preservation of views down Commercial Road from Whitechapel High Street remain fundamental to ensuring the legibility of the historic development of the area, and in particular the principal route between London’s Victorian docks and the City.

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2. Management Guidelines

Overview

Who is this conservation plan for?

Outline Guidance on Applications

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When planning applications in a Conservation Area are decided, the planning authority will pay special attention to whether the character of the area is preserved or enhanced. The character of Whitechapel High Street is described in detail in the Appraisal in the first part of this document.

In Whitechapel High Street, as in other Conservation Areas, planning controls are more extensive than normal. Consent is required to demolish any building, and a higher standard of detail and information is required for any application. When applying for listed building consent, please note that all parts of the building, including its interior walls, ceilings and all other internal features, are protected. Some buildings are nationally (statutorily) listed, and some are locally listed by the Borough to indicate buildings that the Borough wishes to protect.

The exact information required will vary with each application, but in general applications must include:

More details are available on the Tower Hamlets website. If in any doubt, the Council welcomes and encourages early requests for advice or information.

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Policies Relevant to the Conservation Area and how they are Implemented:

Any new development should have regard to national, regional and local planning policy. At the national level, the Planning Act (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas Act) 1990 places a duty on Tower Hamlets to designate conservation areas in “areas of special architectural or historic interest”, and to formulate and publish proposals for the preservation and enhancement of its conservation areas. National policy for planning and the historic environment is set out in Planning Policy Guidance 15 (PPG15). At the regional level, policy 4B.1 of the London Spatial Development Strategy (or London Plan) states that ‘The Mayor will seek to ensure that developments … respect London’s built heritage.’ At the local level, the new Local Development Framework (LDF) of Tower Hamlets states that ‘the Council will protect and enhance the historic environment of the borough’. This is described in detail in policy CP49 of the Core Strategy of the LDF. The Conservation Area lies within the City Fringe Area Action Plan, which describes local policy in more detail. Whitechapel is identified as a Sub-Area in this plan. There are several development sites identified in the LDF which overlap or adjoin the Conservation Area – these are described in more detail in the Area Action Plan. St Mary’s Gardens is designated as public open space. The Conservation Area is a site of archaeological importance. Whitechapel Road, Commercial Road and Commercial Street are all strategic roads.

Listed Buildings in the Conservation Area

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Grade II*

Whitechapel Art Gallery, Whitechapel High Street Church Bell Foundry, 32-34 Whitechapel Road (railings and gate to no. 32)

Grade II

Whitechapel Public Library, 77 Whitechapel High Street Tomb in south east corner of former St Mary’s Churchyard, Whitechapel Road Drinking Fountain set in wall of former St Mary’s Churchyard, Whitechapel Road Wall of former St Mary’s Churchyard, Whitechapel Road 30 Whitechapel Road

Locally Listed Building

85 Whitechapel High Street

Highways and Transportation Issues

Whitechapel Road is the major thoroughfare that runs through the heart of this Conservation Area. Although today it is a busy road with modern surfacing and street furniture, it runs along an ancient route and the existence of the road is an essential characteristic of this area.

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Opportunities and Potential for Enhancement

Whitechapel Road itself is the major route through the centre of this Conservation Area. As part of any improvement scheme, the potential for calming the traffic and improving the quality of the pedestrian and cycle environment should be investigated.

Development in the Conservation Area should enhance the unique characteristics of Whitechapel High Street, reinforcing its distinctive identity and contributing to its historic sense of place. New buildings should be of a high design standard, reflecting the scale and variation typical of the historic townscape. Individual buildings should display their own identity within those historically-set parameters responsible for the creation of a coherent streetscape derived from an otherwise diverse collection of different designs, styles and materials. Retention and restoration of existing buildings which contribute to the character of the area provides the foundation for the area’s redevelopment. Restoration of a full coaching pub and yard will be encouraged.

The Aldgate area is undergoing major transformation at present. Several major development sites are identified in the Area Action Plan, many of which include listed buildings or other buildings which form valuable parts of the historic townscape. The townscape and its mix of uses are described in the Appraisal, and the protection of this townscape and mix of uses is critical in the face of considerable pressures to allow large office uses to spill over into the area from the City. Comprehensive redevelopment of large areas can significantly compromise the existing activity, interest and variety at street level.

New development should also be informed by the historic structure and legibility which existed prior to the creation of the traffic gyratory system, and in particular the important bifurcation of Whitechapel High Street and Commercial Road. New developments should respect the fine-grain character and straightforward legibility of the historic street pattern.

The wide pavements outside Central House on Whitechapel High Street and Commercial Road provide an opportunity for developing a more sheltered public

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space at pedestrian level, possibly linked with the restoration of the university building. The concrete panels of this building have been inappropriately over-painted.

Parks and Open Spaces

St Mary’s Gardens, now Altab Ali Park, as described in the Appraisal, is a vital part of the history of the area. Ongoing management of the park should be sensitive to its historic importance as the site of the original white chapel, and its more recent significance as a memorial to Altab Ali and a symbol of the community’s resilience against racism. We will aim to achieve Green Heritage Site status for these gardens.

Equalities:

This Character Appraisal and Management Guidelines will support the Council’s aims:

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Please contact us if you feel that this document could do more to promote equality and further the interests of the whole community.

Publicity

The existence of the Conservation Area will be promoted locally to raise awareness of current conservation issues and to invite contributions from the community.

Consideration of Resources Needed to Conserve the Historic Environment:

In order to meet today’s needs without damaging the historic or architectural value of a building, a degree of flexibility, innovation and creative estate management may be required.

Publication Mechanism:

The final document is scheduled to be published in April 2007. We will publish it on our website, and they will also be available in council offices, libraries and the idea stores.

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Ongoing Management and Monitoring Change:

Enforcement Strategy:

The Council will enforce conservation law wherever necessary.

Further Reading and Contacts

The Survey of London, volumes 43 and 44: Poplar, Blackwall and the Isle of Dogs.

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The Buildings of England (London Docklands). Williams and Pevsner.

The Council encourages and welcomes pre-application discussions with the community and businesses. Further detailed guidance can be obtained on our website, or by contacting 020 7364 5009.

Listed Buildings at Risk:

Former Whitechapel Library, Whitechapel High Street Priority - C (New entry) Designation - Listed Grade II, Conservation Area Condition – Fair, Vacant Ownership - Trust

Summary Former Library. Building is vacant and proposals by the adjacent Whitechapel Gallery have yet to be finalised. Application for English Heritage grant to be submitted.

Drinking Fountain set in wall of former St Mary's Churchyard, Whitechapel Road Priority - C (New entry) Designation - Listed Grade II Condition - Poor Ownership - Local Authority

Summary Drinking fountain with pink marble basin and plaque set in Norman style arch. Erected 1860 but moved to present position 1879. The local authority is preparing a scheme of repair.

Action Proposed to Secure:

To be written after public consultation.

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Any other threats to the Conservation Area

At this time, we are not aware of any other threats to the Conservation Area.

Priorities for Action (1-5)

To be written after public consultation.

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Appendix C: Conservation Area Character Appraisals and Management Plans Draft Strategy for Full Public Consultation

The 1990 Planning Act requires a public meeting to be held when proposals for the preservation and enhancement of conservation areas are formulated and published. Planning Guidance recommends that the Council seeks the views of all relevant stakeholders.

This document outlines the stakeholders as required by the guidance; in addition we will invite participation from other interested parties and provide additional opportunities for involvement in the consultation process.

As the Conservation Area Character Appraisals and Management Guidelines are technical documents and their content is closely governed by guidance it was felt to be helpful for initial drafts of the document to be prepared prior to consultation. Having a first draft for comment allows everyone to understand the technical conservation issues and establishes the parameters within which responses are required.

It is proposed that consultation on the draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Plans will take place from 7th December 2006 to 17th January 2007. This is a 6 week consultation period acceptable within the Council’s Consultation and Involvement Framework 2003. Results will be analysed and incorporated into the second draft of Area Appraisals and Management Plans for submission to Cabinet at the meeting of 7th March 2007.

We also intend to provide feedback to all consultees who comment or express an interest in the documents. This could be provided on our website, or by post if requested.

A variety of consultation methods have been selected to ensure the involvement of a wide range of stakeholders.

Groups we will consult Consultation method Timescale Local Area Partnerships Draft Area Appraisal 7th December 2006 - RSLs and Management Plans 17th January 2007. Tower Hamlets Access Group will be posted to these English Heritage groups with Amenity Societies (eg. questionnaire/comment Georgian Group, Victorian cards Society, 20th Century Society, SPAB, Ancient Monuments Email responses Society) accepted Statutory services (inc. utility companies etc) A meeting for stakeholders might be arranged where appropriate.

Groups we will consult Consultation method Timescale Third sector groups including: Drafts will be available 7th December 2006 – on Council website 17th January 2007 - Faith Groups(including Tower Hamlets Inter Drafts available with Faith Forum questionnaires for - Conservation Groups written responses in: - Play groups and park users - Ideas Stores - Schools - Libraries - Tower Hamlets College - Town Hall - Community Groups via COF Online responses via the Tower Hamlets Consultation Calendar and AMP website

East End Life Article and publicity in other media.

Tower Hamlets Partnership Bulletin.

Meetings with groups if requested.

Service Users and Individuals: As above. 7th December 2006 – 17th January 2007 - Children and Young In addition: Open day 6th January People One Public Meeting in - Parents each LAP Area - Local residents (evening) with - Tenants and Residents presentation/discussion Associations One Full Day open event at Ideas Store (Saturday 6th January)

Telephone Hotline