LOUGHBOROUGH BELLFOUNDRY

HERITAGE IMPACT ASSESSMENT August 2020 Revision Date Issued to Comment

- 11.08.2020 Client, IPA First Issue

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Contents

Section 1: Introduction Page 4

Section 2: Planning Policy Context Page 5

Section 3: Statement of Significance Page 7

Section 4: Heritage Impact Assessment Page 9

Section 4.1: Basis of Assessment Page 9

Section 4.2: Works Building - Courtyard Page 11

Section 4.3: Works Building - Ground Floor Page 12

Section 4.4: Works Building - First Floor Page 14

Section 4.5: Works Building - Exterior Page 15

Section 4.6: Building - Ground Floor Page 16

Section 4.7: Foundry Building - First Floor Page 17

Section 4.8: Foundry Building - Exterior Page 18

Section 5: Conclusion Page 19

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1 Introduction

1.1 Introduction and Purpose

The Taylor’s Foundry site in Loughborough dates from 1859 when it was commissioned by John Taylor as a purpose-built foundry to cast of varying type, size and use. Over the last 160 years, the buildings have been extended, altered and demolished, as required, to accommodate changes in business operations or to allow them to cast bigger bells. The buildings are Grade II* listed and are of exceptional industrial significance. After the closing of the in 2017, Taylor’s is now the last major bell foundry in the country.

However, the buildings are presently in a rapidly declining state of deterioration and on the Heritage at Risk Register.

In 2009, the operating company went into administration but was saved through the efforts of UK Bellfoundries Ltd, who acquired the buildings and bell founding company; The Loughborough Bellfoundry Trust was subsequently set up and the land, buildings and machinery transferred to them to be looked after in perpetuity. Their aim is to ensure their conservation and upkeep, while the bell foundry carries on with the business as usual.

In 2018, the Trust applied successfully to the National Lottery Heritage Fund for a Heritage Enterprise Grant, which provided funds for the Round 1 Development Works that will encompass repairs, refurbishment and new work. The main objective of this type of grant is to ensure that the bell founding business is as successful as the refurbishment of the buildings so that each may keep on supporting the other in the future.

In June 2019, a new team of specialist consultants was appointed by the Trust with Caroe Architecture Ltd (CAL) acting as the lead consultant for this project. It is in this capacity, as agents for the Trust, that we are applying for planning permission and listed building consent in relation to the proposed repairs and refurbishment of the bell foundry buildings.

This Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) has been prepared Dr Karey Draper, Heritage Consultant at Caroe Architecture, in support of a planning application to Charnwood Borough Council. It aims to provide a thorough, objective assessment of the main aspects of the proposals and how they might affect the character and significance of this heritage asset.

1.2 Scope of Report

Taylor’s Bell Foundry is divided into two separate buildings, the Works and Foundry, where different activities are carried out for the process of bell fabrication and tuning, from inception to completion, as well as a museum space. This project is being tackled from three different perspectives as mentioned above: repairs, refurbishment and new build, which will support each other and ensure the future longevity and upkeep of the buildings while their original use is retained.

1.3 Existing Information

This report draws upon the Conservation Plan that was produced for the Loughborough Bellfoundry Trust in February 2020. This includes various documentary and archival sources, a site survey, phasing and significance plans. Together, these provide an understanding of the historical significance of the site by which the impact of the proposed plans can be assessed.

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2 Planning Policy Context This Heritage Impact Assessment is based upon statutory guidance provided at both national and local levels.

2.1 National Planning Policy Framework

The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) is a document that provides the government’s planning policies and guidance for England. It was first published in 2012 with the latest revision made in February 2019. It defines significance as the value of a heritage asset to this and future generations derived from its heritage interest. That interest may be archaeological, architectural, aesthetic or historic in nature. Significance derives not only from a heritage asset’s physical presence, but also from its setting.

In Section 16: Conserving and Enhancing the Historic Environment, paragraphs 185, 189, 190 and 192 are applicable when considering the proposals affecting heritage assets such as Taylor’s. In particular, Paragraph 189 states that local planning authorities should require applicants to demonstrate an understanding of the significance of any ‘heritage asset’ which may be affected by a proposed development. The amount of detail provided should be ‘proportionate to the importance…and no more than is sufficient to understand the impact of the proposal on the significance of the heritage asset.’1

Paragraph 190 is of especial relevance to this assessment, stipulating:

Local planning authorities should identify and assess the particular significance of any heritage asset that may be affected by a proposal (including by development affecting the setting of a heritage asset) taking account of the available evidence and any necessary expertise. They should take this into account when considering the impact of a proposal on a heritage asset, to avoid or minimise any conflict between the heritage asset’s conservation and any aspect of the proposal.2

2.2 Conservation Principles

Conservation Principles: Policies and Guidance was published by English Heritage in 2008 and still stands as the foundation for guiding the sustainable management of the historic environment. It identifies heritage values that should be considered when assessing the significance of a place. These include evidential, historical, aesthetic and communal values, which together help to advise heritage impact when managing change. The intention is to protect and conserve whilst still allowing for opportunities that will ‘sustain, reveal or reinforce its cultural and natural heritage values.’ This document applies these core principles for evaluating heritage impact.

2.3 Charnwood Borough Council Planning Policy

The proposals for the Loughborough Bell Foundry site are also subject to policies set out in the Charnwood Local Plan 2011-2028, adopted in November 2015. Policy CS 14 is particularly relevant when reviewing the design scheme and assessing heritage impact at Taylor’s Bell Foundry. The policy requires development proposals to protect heritage assets and their setting, and supports development which prioritises the refurbishment and re-use of historic buildings. It also directly identifies Taylor’s Bell Foundry as being ‘at risk’ and seeks to secure improvements and support ‘the viable and sustainable use of heritage assets at risk of neglect or loss, providing such development is consistent with the significance of the heritage asset, especially where this supports tourism or business development.’3

1 Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, National Planning Policy Framework (February 2019), p. 55. 2 Ibid. 3 Charnwood Local Plan 2011-2028 Core Strategy, (2015), p. 76.

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Charnwood Local Plan 2011-2028 Core Strategy, Policy CS 14.

It is in light of the above national and local guidance that the following heritage impact assessment has been prepared. It is envisaged as a tool to provide information on the proposals and their impact on the buildings.

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3 Statement of Significance As part of the National Lottery Heritage Fund project, a Conservation Plan was prepared and adopted bythe Loughborough Bellfoundry Trust in February 2020. It included Understanding and Significance sections, which have been used for the basis of this report. It follows the approach set out in Historic England’s Conservation Principles, Policy and Guidance (2008) referred to above in section 2.2.

3.1 Categories of Significance

The significance of Taylor’s Bell Foundry was considered in terms of its Evidential, Historic, Aesthetic, Communal and Industrial Value, as outlined below:

Evidential Significance derives from the potential of the site to provide evidence of past human activity. The archaeological research and its potential capacity to respond to investigative analysis make a primary contribution to evidential value.

Historical significance derives from the way in which historical figures, events and aspects of life can be connected through a place to the present. This includes associative, illustrative and representational value, and encompasses among other things: rarity or survival, the extent of associated documentation, the ability to characterise a period and association with other monuments.

Aesthetic significance derives from the way in which people draw sensory and intellectual stimulation from a place. This includes not only formal visual and aesthetic qualities arising from design for a particular purpose, the experiential encounter with these, but also more fortuitous relationships of visual elements arising from the development of the place through time, and aesthetic values associated with the actions of nature.

Communal significance is vital to the significance, at the heart of which are the many layered meanings that a place may hold in contemporary society. Commemorative and symbolic values are founded in collective memory and historic identity, and social value can also derive from the contemporary uses of a place.

Industrial significance derives from the recognised contribution of a trade to the overall industrial history at local, national and international levels. This can include machinery and skills, but also the rarity of its survival compared to other places and how well it has remained intact over time.

3.2 Degrees of Significance

The degree of significance of Taylor’s Bell Foundry was outlined according to the following scale:

Exceptionalis used to define areas or aspects considered to be of international importance or value.

High is used to define areas or aspects considered to be of national importance or value.

Some is used to define areas or aspects considered to be of local importance or value or to have an element considered to be of potentially national interest.

Neutral is used to define areas or aspects considered to be of neutral value (neither contributing to nor detracting from the heritage values).

Detracting is used to define areas or aspects considered to have a negative value or which are intrusive tothe significance as a whole.

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3.3 Overall Statement of Significance for Taylor’s Bell Foundry

(To be read in conjunction with the Conservation Plan, February 2020)

Taylor’s Bell Foundry is a Grade II* listed brick industrial building complex located in the heart of Loughborough. Since the closing of Whitechapel Bell Foundry in 2017, it is now the last major historic bell foundry left in Britain. Uniquely, Taylor’s is completely purpose-built, (unlike the Whitechapel bell foundry, which took over an existing seventeenth century coaching inn). The first phase of construction began in 1859 and subsequently continued with additions made as required for the next fifty years.

There are two main buildings that compose the site: the Works and the Foundry. The Works is the site of the original first phase foundry building, which still survives and is now the Joinery Shop flanked by workshops around a courtyard plan. A distinctive 67-foot high chimney shaft built in 1866 remains a notable exterior feature along with the on the corner of Freehold Street and a carillon tower near the Tuning Shop. Directly across Cobden Street is the Foundry building, built around 1874, which includes a hall, polychromatic chimneys, oven and foundry. Both buildings have large access entrances on Freehold Street and Cobden Street for the movement of bells around the site.

The site is significant for its nearly complete retention of historic fabric and machinery, plan-form, and unique methods of production and tuning. It is a rare survival of a traditional industry with a strong heritage value. Phases of alteration are not only due to expansion and a fire in 1891, but more widely reflect the history of the nation and world, as industrial technology and manufacturing processes improved, and as demand for bells waxed and waned through two world wars and economic depressions.

Taylor’s bells have the distinction of being cast and shipped to locations all around the world, contributing to cultures and traditional practices, far beyond Britain’s shores. This is a significant form of physical and aural heritage, which had and continues to have a lasting impact everywhere a Taylor’s bell has been installed.

The bell foundry has maintained its location and ownership in Loughborough for 160 years, which has allowed it to accumulate and store a comprehensive and extensive documentary archive of both national and international significance. The oldest records date from the St Neots foundry in the eighteenth century and continue to the present day. This includes Copy Books, Job Books, Metal Books, and even inspection notebooks for site visits to bell towers. The archive also holds nearly nine thousand technical layout drawings for bell locations around the world.

In its longevity, the foundry has amassed a varied collection of rare, historic bell-related objects, including tuning forks, equipment, and memorabilia, enough to support an on-site museum dedicated to Taylor’s and bellfounding history. This collection is also of national and international significance.

Taylor’s is significant for both its intangible and tangible elements and contributions to cultural and industrial heritage. It is a place that passes knowledge and skills of a highly specialised form of traditional craftsmanship to the next generation of bellfounders. These skills are taught by example, not from a book, but passed from one generation to the next.

Taylor’s has a committed following of volunteers and private individuals who give their time freely towards preserving and saving this unique place. A number of them lead group tours and manage the museum and archive. However, it is the group of private individuals who came together to form the Loughborough Bellfoundry Trust and save the bell foundry when it faced closure and an uncertain future, that is the strongest testament to the significance of this special place.

Based on its Historical, Aesthetic, Communal and Industrial heritage values, Taylor’s Bell Foundry is of Exceptional Significance overall.

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Unfortunately, the site is currently in a poor state of presentation and has limited accessibility that detracts from the Bell Foundry’s significance and setting. The design proposals set out in this planning application seek to improve the Bell Foundry site in a way which minimises any harm to its significance and enhances the future viability of the site as a working bell foundry in good repair, with facilities that are fit for staff, volunteers and visitors.

4 Heritage Impact Assessment

4.1 Basis of Assessment

The potential impact of the proposed repairs and alterations to the heritage values and significance of Taylor’s Bell Foundry is set out in this section. The basis of the assessment is defined below:

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In summary, it is proposed to:

Works Building

• Create a new approach, main entrance and boundary wall to the site on the west side of the Works building.

• Construct a new two-storey reception building in the Carillon Tower Courtyard, along with an external ramp.

• Insertion of a hybrid platform lift.

• Internal reordering of offices and archive.

• Internal reordering of in the workshop to allow a new internal ramp.

• New staff facilities with toilets, a locker-room and canteen.

• Tea and toilet facilities on the ground floor of the bell tower.

• Repairs to the building fabric, including structural repairs, refurbishment of windows, doors, rainwater goods, drainage, masonry and roofs.

• Replacement of the roof over the shop and the archive store.

• Mechanical and electrical upgrades to include a new fire alarm system, enhanced mechanical ventilation and lighting.

Foundry Building

• New draught lobby to replace existing.

• Insertion of a hybrid platform lift.

• New staircase installed in the reception area of the museum.

• New roof above the museum furnaces to incorporate the replacement of the existing UPVC downpipes for cast and introduction of one new downpipe and overflows for the parapet gutter.

• New roof above the museum.

• Provision of level access throughout the museum to include a new concrete slab in the area behind the furnaces.

• New external emergency staircase from the first floor Activity Room down to Cobden Street via the skip yard.

• Internal reordering of the metal store and fettling.

• Introduction of new toilet facilities and an emergency shower room in the Casting Hall.

• New metal gates to Skip Yard to replace existing.

• Repairs to the building fabric, including windows, doors, rainwater goods, and some localised repointing to brick walls.

• New fencing above the skip yard wall facing Peel Drive car park for security.

• New lightning protection system.

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The following sections address the design proposals in more detail. They are organised by building and floor level, and individually assessed for potential heritage impacts.

4.2 Proposals Affecting Works Building – Carillon Courtyard

4.2.1 Creation of a new pedestrian pathway on west side of the Works building with a new boundary wall and gated main entrance to the site. This would be of High Positive impact improving the character and setting of the foundry, whilst providing a better entrance to the site and access to the Carillon Courtyard.

4.2.2 Demolition of a twentieth century, single storey, drawing office of detracting significance and replacing with the construction of a new two-storey reception building with toilet facilities, storage and a finance office on the first floor. It will be constructed with grey bricks of different hues, to match the character of the existing brickwork, with new windows to match existing with concrete lintels. This proposal would be ofMinor Positive impact, removing a currently detracting feature and replacing with an improved design that also provides a much needed accessible visitor entrance with toilet facilities and office space.

4.2.3 In order to provide the new reception building, window W.WG.10.4 will be removed and a door inserted for the new lift. The existing rainwater pipe W.RWDP.14 next to it would also be removed with water diverted to be discharged over the new reception building roof. These changes would be of Minor Detrimental impact, mitigated by the benefit of an accessible lift and the improvement to the character and setting of the new building.

4.2.4 As part of this new construction, an external wall to existing corridor WG.07 would be demolished and a new lightweight partition with pocket doors inserted to ensure the corridor has fire compartmentation. This would be of Minor Detrimental impact, however the new partition would improve fire safety for the building.

4.2.5 The two steps from WG.07 corridor outside the building will be made redundant and demolished as the external levels will be modified to provide level access around the building. This would be ofNeutral impact as the steps are of little heritage value and the improvements will provide level access into the building.

4.2.6 Level access in the Carillon Courtyard will be provided using a combination of soft and hardscaping, including a new ramp. This will require removal of the existing retaining wall. This would be of Minor Positive impact, improving the character and setting of heritage asset, whilst improving accessibility.

4.2.7 Existing drainage will be repaired and refurbished as required with new branches to serve the new layout. This would be of Minor Positive impact, better protecting the building from water ingress.

4.2.8 Retain and fully refurbish existing nineteenth century steps to include new metal hand and guardrails to comply with current regulations. Modern concrete sections removed to insert new bricks to match existing including top step. It is likely the whole will need to come out in order to level and then be reinstated. This would be of Minor Positive impact, repairing and improving a historic feature of the site.

Left: External view of the single storey drawing office to be demolished.

Right: The existing nineteenth century steps to be retained and refurbished with some alteration. The right side of the steps is a modern concrete that does not match the left side done in brick.

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4.3 Proposals Affecting the Works Building – Ground Floor

4.3.1 Relocation of the archive office to the ground floor to include removal of existing modern, lightweight partitions. This would be ofMinor Positive impact, opening up and returning the rooms to their original layout.

4.3.2 Introduction of a new hybrid platform lift to provide vertical level access throughout the Works building. This will require the relocation of two lathes in the Machine Workshop (one is redundant) and small changes to the existing circulation route in this area. It will also require that the existing window W.WG.10.4 will be converted into a door opening to access the lift. The floor where the lift will be installed will need to be excavated approximately 600mm to provide a shallow lift pit. Around the lift there will be a new concrete ramp. These alterations would be a Moderate Detrimental impact to this Ground Floor area of the building as it introduces a modern element in a historic workspace, and the loss of some historic fabric, but this is mitigated by the necessity of providing improved accessibility, and the potential public benefit with the planned greater use of the first floor for events.

4.3.3 An extensive survey of the existing drainage within the Works building has revealed that the system is in very poor condition with sections of it that will require repair and localised replacements. In order to carry out the works, a narrow trench in the floor of the Covered Yard will need to be open to gain access to the pipes, which will involve lifting the existing floor finish that is a combination of wooden cobbles, brick paviers and large patches of modern concrete repairs. These works will be a Minor Detrimental impact as it is evident that the floor has been lifted before in many areas to repair the drainage and have been covered with concrete. It is possible that some loss of the historic wooden cobbles and brick paviers will happen but this will be mitigated by replacing any missing or damaged units with new ones to match the existing and the areas of concrete that would be removed will also be replaced with wooden cobbles or brick paviers to match the surrounding.

4.3.4 A new roof will be installed above the Rope Walk area of the Joiners’ Shop. This is a like-for-like replacement of an existing modern, plastic corrugated roof of no heritage value. The new roof will likely improve the character and setting of this exceptionally significant part of the building so would be considered ofNeutral impact.

4.3.5 Joiners’ Yard to have floor levelled and a new set of concrete steps installed to overcome existing floor difference. This would be of Minor Positive impact, improving the condition, appearance and safe access between this neglected area and Peel Drive Yard.

4.3.6 Refurbishment of the staff facilities in the workshops to include a new canteen with a seating area, lockers, toilets and shower facilities. The space will require extending into a small section of the Blacksmith’s Shop, introducing a new doorway with steel lintel and steps. The timber mezzanine above the existing toilets will also be rebuilt. All of the walls will be constructed of exposed brick painted white to match the existing building. The floor will be of polished concrete. This will be of Moderate Detrimental heritage impact due to its alteration of the Blacksmith’s wall, but this is mitigated by the fact that it will greatly improve the presently detracting appearance and benefits for both staff and the public in this area of the building.

4.3.7 The refurbishment of the staff facilities will require the relocation of the existing modern steam generator to the opposite side of the wall. This generator is not a fixed feature and its relocation will require that a small service penetration is made through the wall to allow for a water pipe to connect to the other side. This is a small impact that is mitigated by the improvement to both the setting and environment so is considered to be of Neutral impact.

4.3.8 The ground floor of the bell tower is to be refurbished to provide new tea and toilet facilities. A new lightweight partition wall will be introduced to form the new toilet area to the east end of the room. This would be of Neutral impact, and provide needed facilities.

4.3.9 A new mechanical ventilation system is to be installed in the Paint Shop. The existing room does not have any form of ventilation, which is a health and safety risk due to the fumes associated with spraying different

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parts of the bells. A new ventilation system will be fixed to the ceiling, requiring a penetration through the brick wall out to Cobden Street. This is considered to be a Minor Detrimental impact, mitigated by the very small loss of fabric, and reversibility of its installation, for a very important safety feature that will overall help to protect both the building and its occupants.

4.3.10 Insertion of removable, clear acrylic plaques to deliver information about the site and machinery for visitors and school groups would be of Minor Positive impact, improving interpretation and understanding of the significance of the site for the general public, as long as they are clear, unobtrusive and removable so that the fabric of the building can still be seen.

4.3.11 The current door from the Tuning Shop to the Tuning Shop office (to become the Hand Bell Shop) is to be refurbished to include fire resistant glass panels so that people can see into the shop without entering the room. This would be of Neutral impact.

4.3.12 The glass roof of the Tuning Shop office to be replaced with slates. A new door opening will also be formed in an existing window opening and a new window inserted in the same wall facing the Joiners’ Yard. This is a twentieth century addition, and as such the impact would be considered to be Neutral.

The Machine Workshop, view towards the proposed location of the Existing floor in the Covered Yard, showing previous alterations. A new hybrid platform lift. Two lathes in the rear of this photo to be narrow trench will be opened for the required repair and localised relocated within this space. replacements to the existing drainage.

Existing staff facilities. Proposed upgrades, including Existing Rope Walk within the Joiners Shop. New roof proposed over the existing the toilet facilities at the ground floor of the bell tower Rope Walk. (shown right).

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4.4 Proposals Affecting the Works Building – First Floor

4.4.1 The operational company offices to be relocated from the ground floor to the first floor. This Neutralis of impact.

4.4.2 The floor in the Patterns Store is presently plywood boards over the existing toilets and a concrete slab over the storeroom. A new plywood floor will be installed that will be supported on steel beams. The new ceiling above the staff facilities will be a metal frame suspended system to allow for services to run through the intermediate floor void. This is a Minor Detrimental heritage impact, mitigating by replacing the flooring on a like-for-like basis, and allowing modern elements such as services to be hidden by the new ceiling.

4.4.3 The new lift hall on the first floor will have several areas of heritage impact. There will need to be three separate door openings in existing walls: one for the lift, one to access the offices, and the last to form a fire emergency exit from the board room with exterior stairs. The existing window, W.WF.02.1 will be removed and a new opening will be formed here to allow access from the hall to the offices. Due to these alterations of historic fabric, the lift hall will be ofModerate Detrimental impact. However, this impact is mitigated by several important points some with potential for great public benefit: the need for an accessible lift hall, the need for an emergency exit, and the retention and refurbishment of the existing window (W.WF.01.2). It will also allow the creation of an accessible WC and a small kitchen for tea making for the office staff. Finally, the sections of existing external wall that will become internal will be left undecorated as they are now, so that the alteration can be clearly read in the future.

4.4.4 The existing lay lights in the Old Drawing Office will be retained and refurbished but with new partitions for the offices. Lay light 01 will need to be reduced slightly in size. The slight alteration to this lay light will be of Minor Detrimental impact but this is mitgated by the fact that the lay lights are presently in a poor state. Several panes have been replaced with mismatched glass and all are very dirty. Their refurbishment will be an improvement.

4.4.5 The creation of a new board room space to be located where the current hand bell and assembly workshops are located. This requires the removal of twentieth century partitions, but existing shelves, possibly of some heritage value, will be retained and refurbished. This would be of Neutral impact, partially restoring the space back to its original dimensions.

4.4.6 A few works are required to the first floor offices above the workshop for fire protection. Several options were considered including a sprinkler system and boarding either the floor or ceiling. Ultimately, intumescent paint was the chosen solution as water over the workshop would be detrimental to foundry operations and boarding the ceiling would have negatively impacted the industrial character of the workshop. Boarding the floor above was also discounted as that would require increasing finished floor levels and removing original skiring boards and doors to accommodate. Retaining the existing floor boards and upgrading with intumescent paint was agreed with the structural engineer as an effective solution to protect the fabric and provide enough fire resistance to allow people on the first floor to evacuate. The board room will have a new wall lining to bridge the gap between the existing brick wall and the roof structure. A new insulated ceiling will be introduced including a new office (WF.05). These interventions are of Minor Detrimental impact disturbing some historic fabric, however, they are necessary safety precautions and will have a public benefit as these rooms will be potentially used for events.

Left: Existing board Left: Existing room. window W.WF.01.2 to Right: Existing be retained. archive.

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4.4.7 A new ceiling will be inserted above the new board room to include two new lay lights. This does not disturb historic fabric, is a reversible feature, and will take advantage of the light coming through the refurbished glass roof above. This would be a Minor Positive heritage impact, improving the appearance of the space and providing natural light which would be an improvement to the setting.

4.5 Proposals Affecting the Works Building – Exterior

4.5.1 Windows and glazing to be refurbished and redecorated with wire mesh removed and wired glass replaced. Polycarbonate sheeting over existing windows to be removed. Broken/cracked panes to be replaced. These works would be of High Positive impact and greatly improve the appearance of the heritage asset.

4.5.2 One window on Cobden Street to be reinstated to match existing windows. This would be aHigh Positive impact improving the appearance and restoring a historic element to the building.

4.5.3 Key areas of masonry will be repointed and repaired, with overgrown vegetation removed and walls made good. This would be of High Positive impact.

4.5.4 The gable to the Joinery Shop to be structurally repaired per specifications by a structural engineer. This would be of High Positive impact.

4.5.5 Repair of the existing roofs above the Covered Yard, Machine Workshop, and Carillon Tower. The existing defective Georgian wired glass over the Covered Yard and offices will be replaced with laminated glass, reusing the glazing bars on a like-for-like basis, to provide enhanced safety measures to access the roof for maintenance and protect people working underneath. Laminated glass is impact resistant and if it cracks, it will hold and not fall in shards. The existing glass is not impact resistant and thus a safety risk. These repairs would be a High Positiveimpact, protecting the building from water ingress, improving health and safety, and allowing for better and more regular planned maintenance that should encourage the building to be kept in better condition.

4.5.6 A new, lightweight roof will be installed above the Joinery lean-to, which is currently assessed as being a detracting feature of the building. This would be a Minor Positive impact.

4.5.7 Replacement of the flat lead roof to the current ground floor WC block (proposed archive storeroom) on the northwest corner of the Works building. It is proposed to use mastic asphalt, instead of reinstating lead in this location as it poses a security risk and is too easily accessible to be stolen. Mastic asphalt is a traditional material that can be applied to timber roofs and has a long life span. This would be ofNeutral heritage impact.

4.5.8 Stonework and brickwork to undergo a programme of light cleaning to remove grease, algae and dirt. This would be of Moderate Positive impact.

Far left: Existing windows on Cobden St showing wire mesh to be removed, and window to be unblocked.

Left: Carillon Tower roof to be repaired.

Above: Existing roof above the Joinery lean- to, which will be replaced.

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4.6 Proposals Affecting the Foundry Building – Ground Floor

4.6.1 A new draught lobby inside the main entrance door to the museum would be of Neutral heritage impact as it replaces one already in situ that is a late twentieth century addition.

4.6.2 Removal of the spiral staircase and insertion of a new, wide steel staircase to the north of the lobby to comply with current regulations regarding accessibility. It will require opening up an existing portion of the intermediate floor to provide enough headroom for the stairs. New steel beams will be introduced to support the first floor and metal staircase. This will also require the insertion of two concrete foundation pads to underpin the walls (see the structural engineer’s drawing no. 19569-F-01_REV A-MUSEUM GRD FLR). This is of Minor Detrimental impact, but is mitigated by the removal of the modern, spiral stairs and improved access to the first floor level.

4.6.3 Reordering and improvement to the museum WCs with the addition of an accessible WC and baby changing unit would be of Neutral heritage impact because the existing sanitation provision and layout is not historic, yet the equipement and facilities have become worn and need renewing.

4.6.4 The insertion of a hybrid platform lift to provide necessary vertical level access is considered to be of Neutral impact as it is being placed against a modern wall, near the opening for the present spiral staircase. A section of the modern wall will need to be removed and services relocated, with a new brick wall inserted at ground level. As these are modern elements, there is no heritage impact, and much gain for the public in providing an accessible lift that serves museum visitors.

4.6.5 Removal of existing cement flooring in the storage area and fuel store behind the furnaces, and replacing with new, insulated concrete floor slab. This will provide an element of fire resistance, but moreso, itwill provide improved level access for visitors between the museum entrance to the rear of the furnaces. This would be of Minor Positive impact.

4.6.6 The existing timber door to the Casting Hall from the furnaces to be upgraded to FD rating. It is an aging door of some character, although ill-fitting, with gaps around the doorframe. The intention is to retain this door with the side facing the Casting Hall to be treated with intumescent paint to give it some fire protection. A new timber frame will then be built in order to close the gaps around the door and masonry, to include smoke seals and new door pulls to ensure Taylor’s staff can properly open it. The side facing the museum would be left untreated. This is a necessary safety improvement that would be of Neutral impact.

4.6.7 A new concrete floor to replace the floor in the Metal Store. This will help the foundry be able to properly store and move the metal ingots used in the casting of bells. The sand floor may have some heritage value as this was once where bricks were made and stored. This would be of Minor Detrimental impact.

4.6.8 A modern oil tank located at the back of the furnaces will be decommissioned and removed which will be of Minor Positive impact as the area will be made available for a better appreciation of the back of the furnaces in the museum and will allow a risk free, emergency exit from the Casting Hall for staff. The existing large oil tank located outside the oven will supply oil to the required furnaces via a new pipe that will run externally around the oven building and into the Brass Foundry, fixed to the wall, to ensure that the appropriate angle for the oil supply is achieved. Once the pipe enters the Casting Hall, it will be buried to avoid clashing with the operations within these spaces. The new oil pipe route will have a Minor Detrimental impact on the character of the building and spaces, as the pipe will be concealed within the Casting Hall, which will imply some loss of underground historic fabric. The fixing of pipes to the walls will be done in a sympathetic manner using traditional materials and it is a reversible action.

4.6.9 Creation of a new fire-rated cupboard to be located under the gallery or near the entrance of the casting hall. This will accommodate all electrical boxes in a fire rated area, and is considered to be ofMinor Detrimental impact. Although a necessary modern requirement, it will introduce a new visual element that should be mitigated by being as unobtrusive as possible.

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4.6.10 Installation of an emergency shower and WC in the southwest corner of the Casting Hall. There are presently no such facilities available to the staff in the Foundry Building and is a needed provision. This would be located under the gallery and stairs of the Casting Hall and will be of Minor Detrimental impact on the setting, however, this is mitigated by the need for these facilities and the improvement of work conditions on the site.

4.6.11 Localised repairs to existing external walls of Exceptional significance would be of Moderate Positive impact improving the appearance of the building and conserving the walls.

4.7 Proposals Affecting the Foundry Building – First Floor

4.7.1 An Activity Room will be created using the existing under-used laboratory room in order to provide necessary space for museum educational activities. This room will require some upgrading and refurbishment to comply with current access and fire regulations. The existing door onto the gallery will be slightly shifted and widened. Another door will be inserted leading to emergency stairs outside of the building (discussed in section 4.8.1). A second door will be inserted at street level, on the elevation fronting the car park and adjacent to the Casting Hall, which means that it will need to go through an existing modern brick wall. These proposals are of Minor Detrimental impact, mitigated by several points. First is the need for a more accessible passage and emergency exits for visitors. Additionally, the wall with the street level door is in very poor condition, so in the course of work it will be repaired and a new capping course installed, which will be an improvement. The doors will also be designed to match existing. Overall the new, more useable space will give renewed life to a currently under-used area, and provide more opportunities for the museum, allowng the safe accommodation of school groups and visitors.

4.7.2 As part of the plans for the new Activity Room, the roof will be insulated, leaving the existing timber trusses still visible. This proposal is of Minor Positive impact, providing a comfortable space for visitors whilst retaining the view of the timbers.

4.7.3 In the new Activity room, a modern window will be replaced with a new one to match existing historic windows. The remaining structural void to be in-filled with brick. This is of Minor Positive impact, improving the appearance of the building.

4.7.4 Blocking of internal, modern windows to the new Activity Room using plasterboard lining to improve the fire protection of the room. The floor will be upgraded with intumescent paint to the underside. This will be of Neutral impact. It will remove the modern windows, reinstating some of the historic form of the space, whilst providing increased protection measures against fire.

4.7.5 In order to accommodate the new lift in the museum at first floor level, a new brick wall will be constructed to replace the existing modern timber stud wall. This is considered to be of Neutral impact.

Ground Floor (left): Existing furnace backs.

First Floor (right): Views of the existing laboratory room, to become the proposed Activity Room.

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4.8 Proposals Affecting the Foundry Building – Exterior

4.8.1 A new external metal staircase on the south side from the skip yard to first floor Activity Room isMinor a Detrimental impact. It will require the existing floor directly underneath to be broken in order to cast a new concrete slab to support the new stairs, and a window to be altered with secondary glazing. This impact is mitigated by the necessity for an emergency exit from that level of the building and the added fire protection to the window. The secondary glazing to the window will also be reversible.

4.8.2 It is proposed to replace the existing detracting asbestos cement roof behind the furnaces with a new insulated metal roof to cover the whole area between the Casting Hall and boundary wall. The existing roof is leaking, fragile and unsuitable for the space it covers. The new roof will provide a weathertight and comfortable space, which is to be dedicated to expansion of the museum offering, and therefore, is an area where alterations create noticeable public benefit. This proposal would be of Moderate Positive impact. It is important to note that various options were considered, taking into account ease of future maintenance, material lifespan, and the potential heritage impact of a new roof. These are discussed in detail in the Design and Access Statement and on page 34-37 of the Stage 3 Report.

4.8.3 A consequence of the new roof discussed in point 4.8.2, is that an existing Casting Hall window (F.WG.08.6) will need to be partially adapted in order to provide a weather tight junction with the roof and the required fire protection for the community room. This will necessitate removing the lower section of the window and infilling with brick. The upper section would be retained and reburbished. This would be a Moderate Detrimental impact, mitigated by the necessity for weather/fire proofing and the refurbishment of the remaining window.

4.8.4 An existing airbrick vent will be reused for ventilation to the museum’s WCs on Freehold Street and a new service pipe will be inserted through the roof at the rear. This would be of Minor Detrimental impact but mitigated by the use of the existing vent, and is altogether necessary for the overall improvement of the building.

4.8.5 The museum roof of corrugated cement is to be replaced with slates to match other roofs in the bell foundry buildings, and will reuse the existing metal structure. This would be of Moderate Positive impact.

4.8.6 An access hatch is to be installed in the new roof of the museum hall to allow access to the gutter for maintenance. The ceiling is a modern intervention that will be replaced and the hatch inserted into the new ceiling. This would be of Neutral impact.

4.8.7 All windows and doors to be refurbished and redecorated. This would be of High Positive impact and greatly improve the appearance of the heritage asset.

4.8.8 Stonework and brickwork to undergo a programme of light cleaning to remove grease, algae and dirt. This would be of Moderate Positive impact.

4.8.9 Key areas of masonry will be repointed and repaired, with overgrown vegetation removed and walls made good. This would be of High Positive impact.

4.8.10 New signage to the Museum would be of Moderate Positive impact providing a clear public entrance to the bell foundry whilst revitalising and improving the overall appearance of this important hertiage asset.

4.8.11 Two windows to Cobden Street to be unblocked to allow natural light and ventilation into the museum. These would match existing windows and be of Moderate Positive impact.

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5 Conclusion The buildings of Taylor’s Bell Foundry in Loughborough are of outstanding significance at local, national and international levels. This is true even more so now that it has recently become the last major working bell foundry in Britain. It is of paramount importance that this industrial heritage site is preserved for generations to come with the help of a thorough, sympathetic approach that will encompass elements of repair, refurbishment and new build.

Presently, the buildings are in a rapidly deteriorating state. This proposed design scheme seeks to carefully and sympathetically repair these buildings, to see the Loughborough bell foundry removed from the Heritage at Risk Register, and to ensure this heritage asset is not lost.

The refurbishment plans address areas identified by the Loughborough Bellfoundry Trust, John Taylor and Co., and other stakeholders as required to help with the careful and well-considered upgrading of the facitilites of the business, which is an inherent part of the grant provided by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. The proposed refurbishment will go hand-in-hand with the proposals for a new entrance and new extension on the side of the Carillon Tower Courtyard to welcome greater numbers of people to the site.

As a whole, most of the proposed alterations are considered to be of Moderate Positive, Minor Positive or Neutral impact. There are some Minor Detrimental impacts, but these appear to be carefully considered and mitigated by the necessity of the alteration and greater public benefit. The alteration with perhaps the most considerable impact of Moderate Detrimental is the proposal for the lift hall in the Works Building, which requires three new doorways to be created through existing historic walls. However, it has been shown that this impact has been mitigated by the necessity of the alterations to allow public access and a required emergency exit from the first floor level.

Overall, the present scheme represents a great deal of benefit and much needed repair to the special architectural and historic interest and significance of this Grade II* listed building.

Exterior:

Left: Examples of existing roofs to be replaced or refurbished - museum roof (left) and furnace backs roof (right).

Right: Existing doors to the Skip Yard. View towards the proposed Activity Room, to have a new external stair.

August 2020 Caroe Architecture Ltd t: 01223 472237 Office 5, Unit 8 e: [email protected] 23­ – 25 Gwydir Street Cambridge CB1 2LG