Blackheath Halls Design and Access Statement Heritage Statement

design stage: 3 date: January 2021 rev 0

Walkerbushe Architects 6 Highbury Corner London N5 1RD 020 7697 0707 [email protected] Blackheath halls

Contents

Introduction

Context: Site location Site History Statutory & planning context Existing site

Design: Proposed works new signage : place making + interactive new entrance point Proposed design reference & material

Access: Traffic management

Heritage: Relevant Policy Impact on the significance of the listed building Impact on the significance of the Conservation Area Policy compliances

Conclusions

2 Blackheath halls

Introducti on

This Design and Access statement has been prepared by Walkerbushe Architects on behalf of Blackheath Halls, at 23 Lee Road London SE3 9RQ. This document forms part of a planning applicati on and listed building consent for proposed alterati ons to the front outdoor entrance area.

Blackheath Halls is a Grade II listed building originally built and used as a venue for concerts and public meeti ngs. Together with the adjacent Conservatoire of Music and the School of Art, it forms part of the oldest surviving purpose built cultural complex in London.

Blackheath Halls is a wholly owned subsidiary of Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music & Dance. The building is primarily used as a performance and rehearsal venue for the students of Trinity College of Music (part of the Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance).

Blackheath Halls present a diverse programme of concerts and events throughout the year including classical, folk, comedy nights, talks, literary events, exhibiti ons and children’s theatre. The Halls run a varied community engagement programme from choirs and orchestra through to community opera and children’s opera. The Halls also provide a regular base for large scale student rehearsals and performances including the annual Trinity Laban opera.

Our client, who has already extensively refurbished the hall, is looking to further improve this community facility and heritage asset by making minor amendments to the front external entrance area and minor repairs to the front facade.

Front of Blackheath Halls 2019 Front steps of Blackheath Halls, Late 1970’s

3 Blackheath halls

Context

Site locati on

Blackheath Halls is located at the top of Lee Road in Blackheath, within the London Borough Blackheath Preservati on Trust (BPT) bought the leasehold in 1978 to prevent its demoliti on. The of Greenwich. It has a prominent presence at the juncti on of Lee Road and Blackheath Park. BPT leased the building to the Nati onal Centre for Orchestral Studies (NCOS) in 1980. Restorati on Blackheath stati on is situated to the north of the site, and is about two minutes walk away. works were undertaken and the building was reopened, mainly for small concerts in the Recital Room, in 1985. In 1989 the BPT carried out repairs to the Great Hall and hired it for recordings. In 1990 the fi rst public concert was held since 1939 in the Great Hall.

The building was Grade II listed in 1992 and designated as part of the Blackheath Park Conservati on Area in 2002. It is part of the oldest surviving purpose-built cultural complex in London.

Site History The Blackheath Halls company become a wholly owned subsidiary of Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance (Trinity Laban) in 2003 and retained the leasehold of the Halls from the Blackheath Halls is unique in that it was built by the local community in 1895. A small group of local Blackheath Preservati on Trust. In 2010 Trinity Laban acquired the freehold of the Halls from residents, mostly amateur arti sts and musicians led by William Webster founded the Blackheath the Blackheath Preservati on Trust. Today, the building is primarily used as a performance and Conservatoire of Music in 1881. They obtained a corner site on Lee Road/ Blackheath Park where rehearsal venue for its students, and for public performances and other events. there was a row of cott ages. The leases were due to expire and the site provided enough space for a Conservatoire and an Art school.

The group fl oated a new company in 1893 called the Blackheath Concert Hall Company Limited to raise funds for the building from subscripti ons and shares. The company then hired the architectural practi ce Edmeston and Gabriel. The site was cleared in 1894 and constructi on Blackheath commenced in 1895. The original structure had a tented cast iron entrance canopy and a queue canopy which were added just before the building opened in 1895. These canopies are not present Station today. The building was offi cially opened on 26th October 1895. Bennett Park From the 1890s to the 1920s, there were many large scale concerts and numerous disti nguished Blackheath nati onal and internati onal recitalists performed at the hall. During the First World War, the building StationIndependents Rd was commandeered by the Royal Army Pay Corps and used as administrati ve offi ces. The building Lawn Terrace reopened in January 1921 with newly installed electric lights. BennettCresswell Park Park From the 1920’s, the Golden Days of the large scale performances were over and the hall was Independents Rd mainly used by amateur groups. The Blackheath Dramati c Club staged two producti ons a year Lawn Terrace and the main hall was used for dinner dances and indoor tennis and badminton on Saturday aft ernoons. Cresswell Park

In 1939, War regulati ons closed all concert halls, and the building was again used by the Ministry of Works for war related offi ce use. In 1975, the Ministry decided to leave the building and by Lee Road 1976 the building lay empty. The Blackheath Concert Hall Company Limited ceased trading in December 1978. The building was surrendered to the Cator Trust and a Planning Applicati on for the demoliti on of the Halls and its redevelopment was submitt ed to Greenwich Council. Lee Terrace

Lee Road Blackheath Park

Lee Terrace

Lee Park Blackheath Park

Lee Park

4 Blackheath halls

Context

4 The Existing Site

4 The Existing Site Site History

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It is a BlackheathBlackheath Halls Halls was is unique Grade inII listedthat it in was 1992. built When designatingIn 1939, War the regulationsbuilding, English closed Heritage all concert were halls, prominent presence on the junction of Lee Road, Lee Park and Lee Terrace. #MBDLIFBUI$POTFSWBUPJSFPG.VTJDJOconsciousCZUIFMPDBMDPNNVOJUZJO"TNBMMHSPVQ at the time that only a few concert1976 thehalls building wereand the erected lay building empty. in thewas The 19th again Blackheath Century used by and the still Ministry in Bennett Park They obtained ause.of corner local Amongst residents, site onthe Lee others mostly Road/ by amateur subscription artistsConcert were and the Hall Octagon,PG8PSLTGPSXBSSFMBUFEPGÏDFVTF*O UIF Company Buxton, Limited Derbyshire ceased (1875), trading and inRoyal In developing the brief and proposals, Blackheath Halls Board and the design team have Blackheathreferred ParkAlbertmusicians where Hall, there led South bywas WilliamKensington a row Webster of (1871). founded Others%FDFNCFS5IFCVJMEJOHXBTTVSSFOEFSFE the were purposeMinistry decidedbuilt for toprivate leave companiesthe building such and byas to the policies and recommendations within the National Planning Policy Framework (Sectioncottages. The leasespiano#MBDLIFBUI$POTFSWBUPJSFPG.VTJDJO manufacturerswere due to expire Bechstein’s and the in Londonto the which Cator became1976 Trust the andthe building Wigmorea Planning lay Hallempty. Application in 1915.The Blackheath The for other 12: Conserving and Enhancing the Historic Environment) noting: site provided enoughfewThey concert obtained space halls for a builtcornera Conservatoire at sitethe onturn Lee of Road/thethe century demolition wereConcert more of the lavish Hall Halls Company and and associated its Limited redevelopment with ceased the winter trading in and an Art school.gardensBlackheath of resort Park townswhere suchthere as was Morecambe a rowwas of submittedand Blackpool.%FDFNCFS5IFCVJMEJOHXBTTVSSFOEFSFE to Greenwich Council. cottages. The leases were due to expire and the to the Cator Trust and a Planning Application for • The desirability of sustaining and enhancing the significance of heritage assets and putting site provided enough space for a Conservatoire the demolition of the Halls and its redevelopment them to viable uses consistent with their conservation; 5IFHSPVQÐPBUFEBOFXDPNQBOZJOAdjacent Blackheath Conservatoire of MusicBlackheath and Blackheath Preservation School Trust of Art (BPT) are also bought Grade II listed. and an Art school. was submitted to Greenwich Council. • The positive contribution that conservation of heritage assets can make to sustainablecalled the Blackheath Concert Hall Company UIFMFBTFIPMEJOUPQSFWFOUJUTEFNPMJUJPO communities including their economic vitality; and Limited to raise funds for the building from The BPT leased the building to the National 5IFHSPVQÐPBUFEBOFXDPNQBOZJO Blackheath Preservation Trust (BPT) bought • The desirability of new development making a positive contribution to local charactersubscriptions and andBelowcalled shares. isthe a StatutoryBlackheath The company List Concert Description then Hall Companyfor $FOUSFGPS0SDIFTUSBM4UVEJFT /$04 JOthe application UIFMFBTFIPMEJOUPQSFWFOUJUTEFNPMJUJPO site: distinctiveness. hired the architecturalLimited practice to raise fundsEdmeston for the and building fromRestoration Theworks BPT were leased undertaken the building and to thethe National (BCSJFM5IFTJUFXBTDMFBSFEJOBOEBLACKHEATHsubscriptions LEE and ROAD shares. The companybuilding then was$FOUSFGPS0SDIFTUSBM4UVEJFT /$04 JO reopened, mainly for small concerts We have worked closely with heritage and planning advisors APD to undertake research,DPOTUSVDUJPODPNNFODFEJO5IFPSJHJOBM Blackheathhired the architectural Concert Hall practice GV II EdmestonJOUIF3FDJUBM3PPN JO*OUIF#15 and Restoration works were undertaken and the analysis, surveys and investigations to assess the significance of the building. This documentstructure had a tented(BCSJFM5IFTJUFXBTDMFBSFEJOBOE cast iron entrance carried out repairsbuilding towas the reopened, Great Hall mainly and forhired small it concerts provides an overview of the development of the Blackheath Halls and summarises the canopy and a queuePurposeDPOTUSVDUJPODPNNFODFEJO5IFPSJHJOBM canopy built concert which werehall. Builtadded 1894 byGPSSFDPSEJOHT*OUIFÏSTUQVCMJDDPODFSU EdmestonJOUIF3FDJUBM3PPN JO*OUIF#15 and Gabriel in Queen Anne style. Built of significance of the Heritage Asset and the impacts of the proposed development on the KVTUCFGPSFUIFCVJMEJOHPQFOFEJO5IFTFheritage Leicesterstructure brickhad awith tented some cast dressings iron entrance andwas window held since mullionscarried 1939 outof in terra-cottarepairs the Great to the and Hall. Great low-relief Hall and stucco hired it Historic image and plan of Blackheath Concert Hall asset. canopies are notdecorativecanopy present and treatmenttoday. a queue The incanopy building 'gesso which duro' wereby Gilbert added Seale GPSSFDPSEJOHT*OUIFÏSTUQVCMJDDPODFSUof Walworth; Westmoreland slate roof. Plan KVTUCFGPSFUIFCVJMEJOHPQFOFEJO5IFTF was held since 1939 in the Great Hall. XBTPGÏDJBMMZPQFOFEPOUI0DUPCFScomprises front block facing road with administrativeThe building andwas social Grade rooms II listed and insmall 1992 hall and on 1st floor. Historic image and plan of Blackheath Concert Hall canopies are not present today. The building At right angles, but not centred on the middledesignated of the front,as part is theof thewing Blackheath with the main Park hall, its gable XBTPGÏDJBMMZPQFOFEPOUI0DUPCFS The building was Grade II listed in 1992 and 'SPNUIFTUPUIFT UIFSFXFSFsticking up over the roof of the Lee RoadConservation Block. Front Areaof 2 storeys in 2002. 7 windows. It is believed Ends tohave be gables designated as part of the Blackheath Park many large scalewith concerts ball finials and andnumerous strapwork decorationthe earliestincluding surviving masks and purpose-built musical instruments. concert hall Lowered in double'SPNUIFTUPUIFT UIFSFXFSF arched attic openings. 1st floor has round-headedConservation windows Area with in 2002. triple It casementsis believed andto be distinguished nationalmany largeand internationalscale concerts recitalists and numerous London. the earliest surviving purpose-built concert hall in stained glass above. Frieze between floors depicting tritons playing musical instruments. Ground performed at thedistinguished hall. During nationalthe First and World international War, recitalists London. floor has triple mullioned and transomed windows. Right side has open pedimented doorcase with the building wasperformed commandeered at the hall. by Duringthe Royal the First WorldThe Blackheath War, Halls company become a wholly large brackets, female mask in pediment and elaborate tented cast iron canopy on 2 cast iron Army Pay Corpsthe and building used aswas administrative commandeered by theowned Royal subsidiaryThe Blackheath of Trinity HallsLaban company Conservatoire become a wholly columns. Some stained glass panels to Entrance Hall. Concert Hall interior of 9 bays with elaborate PGÏDFT5IFCVJMEJOHSFPQFOFEJO+BOVBSZArmy Pay Corps and used as administrativeof Music andowned Dance subsidiary (Trinity Laban) of Trinity in Laban 2003 Conservatoireand wooden ribbed ceiling, round- headed windows divided by pilasters and proscenium arch with with newly installedPGÏDFT5IFCVJMEJOHSFPQFOFEJO+BOVBSZ electric lights. retained theof leasehold Music and of Dance the Halls (Trinity from Laban) the in 2003 and open pediment with shield and panel with musical instruments flanked by console brackets. with newly installed electric lights. Blackheath retainedPreservation the leasehold Trust. In of 2010 the Halls Trinity from the This is believed to be the earliest surviving purpose-built concert hall in London. From the 1920’s, the Golden Days of the large Laban acquiredBlackheath the freehold Preservation of the Trust.Halls Infrom 2010 Trinity

scale performancesFrom were the 1920’s, over and the theGolden hall Dayswas of thethe large Blackheath Laban Preservation acquired the Trust. freehold Today, of the the Halls from scale performances were over and the hall was the Blackheath Preservation Trust. Today, the mainly used by amateur groups. The Blackheath building is primarily used as a performance and mainly used by amateur groups. The Blackheath building is primarily used as a performance and Dramatic Club stagedDramatic two Club productions staged two a productions year rehearsala year venuerehearsal for its venue students, for its students,and for public and for public and the main halland was the used main for hall dinner was used dances for dinner dancesperformances performances and other events.and other events. and indoor tennisand and indoor badminton tennis and on badmintonSaturday on Saturday afternoons. afternoons.

PhotographPhotograph taken of taken the buildingof the building at the at turn the turnof the of 20ththe 20th century century Page 22 I WOODS BAGOT Page 22 I WOODS BAGOT

5 Blackheath halls

Context

Conservati on Area

Blackheath Halls is located within the Blackheath Park Conservation Area in the London Borough of Greenwich. Blackheath Park Conservation Area Appraisal was adopted in 2013, it sets out the historic development and key characteristics and features of the conservation area. Blackheath Park was designated as a conservation area in 2002 and is one of five conservation areas in the western part of the London Borough of Greenwich for which Conservation Area appraisals are being prepared.

The Blackheath Park conservation area covers an area that was the southern and larger part of a rural estate bordering the Heath. By the end of the nineteenth century, most of the land was being occupied and included street frontage homes and small mansions with grounds. In the twentieth century, many of the grounds were turned over to smaller scale housing, and a few earlier properties were demolished in the process. Significantly, no access was ever provided across the eastern boundary of the estate.

The special significance of the area comes from the quality and diversity of its housing, ranging from grand Georgian and Victorian villas to compact flats. Some of the designs are progressive, extrovert and highly personal; whilst others are more conservative.

A signature quality of Blackheath Park is the harmonious relationship between dwellings and landscape on the long and broad tree-lined avenues that run through the area and in the post- war estates.

The majority of the Conservation Area is typified by: • Roads with restricted access and large historic or bespoke twentieth century detached houses, • Wide, tree-lined avenues with broad, soft verges, and • Residential character that has, largely due to the lack of ancillary activities and poor connectivity to the east resulted in a quiet and suburban quality. This has combined with the area’s rich architectural history to create a sense of grandeur and exclusivity.

Blackheath Park Conservation Area

6 Blackheath halls

Context

Existi ng site

Blackheath Halls is situated at the juncti on of Lee Road and Blackheath Park. It is an imposing Queen Anne style building with its main public entrance on Lee Road and service access via the car park off Blackheath Park.

Adjacent to Blackheath Halls towards the north are Blackheath Conservatoire of Music and Blackheath School of Art.

A public footpath surrounds the north and east side of the building. There is an existi ng shared footpath with Blackheath School of Art to the north of the site. A quieter public footpath to the east of the site is lined with a ti mber screen and provides access to the Conservatoire Nursery.

Blackheath halls is identi fi ed as a notable landmark by virtue of its size as much as its architectural disti ncti veness. It is deemed a disti nguished contributi on to the southern part of Blackheath Village and is prominent in the view from the north side of the Heath. The proposed design will consider and respect important local views around the site.

Blackheath Halls is accessible via a forecourt fronti ng Lee Road. The two main access points are B LACKHEATH HALL disti nguished by two brick gate posts. Between them is a low brick wall creati ng a deep planter Lee Road SE3 bed that separates the forecourt and the pavement. The main entrance is accessible via a fl ight of steps with rounded ends and an accessible ramp. Neither are original but later additi ons to the listed building.

We have identi fi ed the following issues and seek to address in our proposed scheme: BLACKHEATH HALLS

RWP RWP Grille RWP SVP Paved

SPLG SPLG \ / G Plinth RWP Gravel (0.40x0.40) CBF Gravel 0.10 FW G X2 Concrete Grille PROJECT Grille

DRAWING NOT TO BE SCALED. Blackheath Halls Ht 1. Existi ng front wall and planter between brick gate posts divides the hall from the RE0.10 Plinth Plinth FW Handrail Ht 0.60 SW WalkerHt 1 .10Bushe Architects 1 0.22 Wall .10 ALL DIMENSIONS TO BE CHECKED ON SITE. Handrail Ht 1.10DRAWING .80

- \ / 0 \ / streetscape. Hall users enter through the same entrances as vehicles. Ht 0.20 Tarmac SPLG SPLG SCALE - Paved DC Paved Paved Paved 0 S/UP S/UP (0.60x0.30) Buildings and Interiors IC .15 (0.60x0.30) (0.60x0.30) MH UTL Tactile 2. A variety of signage and street furniture on the front low wall and gate posts create a 0 REFER TO ALL OTHER RELEVANT DATE CL 34.61

.15 \ / T

Oct-19 \ / CL 33.92 FW DRAWINGS AND SPECIFICATIONS. (0.80x0.60) 6 Highbury Corner 020 7697 0707

FW IL 33.07 F REVISIONS 0.22 Wall 2 Highbury Crescent 020 7697 0808 clutt ered appearance. Ht 0.70 IN CASE OF ANY DISCREPANCY OR Handrail DRAWING Ht 1.10 REV

Granite Kerb (1.00x0.15) information E London N51RD studio@walkerbushe / .co.uk FW AMBIGUITY REFER TO CA Handrail / .10 X2 643/00 - \

IRF 0 Ht 1.10 3. The rounded steps connecti ng to the corner of the building do not match the original 0.15 FW 0.33 Wall Ht 0.80 Paved Steps

Ht Handrail (0.60x0.33)

1 IC Ht 1.10

confi gurati on of the halls entrance steps as supported by record photos. .30 CL 33.87 IL 32.38

4. The existi ng asphalt driveway has been previously cut up & patched in multi ple areas and is Handrail Ht 1.10

uneven. Tarmac Tarmac 0.15 5. The existi ng brick wall has been unsympatheti cally repaired and patchily re-popinted; the SW

IC DC existi ng low brick wall & gate posts require repair and re-pointi ng. CL 33.83 Granite DC (0.23x0.23) \ / / \ / 0 IL 30.84 \ / \ / \ / \ / .15 \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ SW 6. There is a lack of seati ng in the forecourt. / Granite Kerb (1 \ / .60x0.15) FLT \ / Paved / Bushes Ht 2.0

\ / 0.22 Wall Post Post Ht 0.50 Hole Post Sign IC BLOCKED 0.22 Wall Hole Hole \ / \ Ht 0.10 CL 33.68

NB CBF Granite Kerb (0.80x0.23) Step /

\ / \

\ / Plinth \ / NP / \ / \ / \ / Ht 0.40 \ / \ / \ / \ / \ 0.22 RTW Ht 0.65 \ / \ / \ / \ / Plinth LP NP \ / \ / \ /\ / Plinth \ /

Ht 0.40 Conc Ht 0.40 3 Tarmac Kerb Bench \ / 0.22 RTW Ht 0.65 (0.80x0.23) Plinth Ht 0 Concrete OSBM Granite Kerb .40 Tarmac 0.22 Wall Ht 0.10 Tarmac 33.90m Tactile (1.00x0.15) Tarmac With CBF Ht 1.80 On Top (0.40x0.40)

Granite Kerb Tarmac (1.00x0.19) Granite Kerb Granite Setts 1 (0.90x0 .15) (0.26x0.10) Granite Kerb (0.90x0.15) Granite Kerb (0.90x0.15)

LEE ROAD [Drawing Title] 1 Scale: 1:100

DRAWING NOT TO BE SCALED. PROJECT Blackheath Halls ALL DIMENSIONS TO BE CHECKED ON SITE. DRAWING - Walker Bushe Architects SCALE - Buildings and Interiors REFER TO ALL OTHER RELEVANT DATE Oct-19 T [Drawing Title] DRAWINGS AND SPECIFICATIONS. 6 Highbury Corner 020 7697 0707 F REVISIONS 1 IN CASE OF ANY DISCREPANCY OR DRAWING REV Highbury Crescent 020 7697 0808

Scale: 1:100 information E AMBIGUITY REFER TO CA London N51RD [email protected] 643/00 - Blackheath halls

Context

Site photos

view from roundabout building frontage facing Lee Road

8 Blackheath halls

Context

Site photos

existing brick wall to ramp creates a hard and less inviting existing front wall and planter obscuring entrance approach to the entrance

existing stone work and brick work require local repair and cleaning by specialist existing rounded front steps existing asphalt ground finish requires repair

9 Blackheath halls

Design

Walkerbushe Proposed works Architects

The proposal seeks to improve the user’s approach to the building, the visibility of the main entrance from public realm and the connecti on of the Hallls to the street and wider community.

Proposed works are outlined as follows:

Front boundary: 1. Parti al removal of existi ng roadside (Lee Road) low masonry wall between existi ng gate posts, cut specifi cally between existi ng brick pier returns in the garden bed. 2. The existi ng gate posts and retained low wall are to be repaired together with minor re- pointi ng. 3. New pedestrian entrance between gate posts into hall from Lee Road to improve access to the hall for users and wider community with revised planter arrangement in place of existi ng and around existi ng ramp. 4. New stainless steel retractable metal bollards, which can be manually dropped, to be fi tt ed at both main entrance and side entrance.

Signage: 1. New stall signage (nom. 6m high) with cut out lett ering to be erected adjacent to existi ng gate post at north side, similar in overall dimensions to the existi ng signage. Lee Road SE3 2. New digital signage at the new pedestrian entrance.

Planter & Forecourt 1. New garden benches in re-consti tuted stone fi nish to suit seati ng areas at forecourt. 2. New planter to be formed with low level metal trim with bronzed fi nish at 500mm high and Walkerbushe gently fall into planter where not connecti ng to garden bench. Architects 3. New waste bin with cigrarett e ash tray by seati ng area. Deliveries - 7.5 tonne truck reversing in and driving out 4. Existi ng tree at front garden bed to be retained with canopy uplit with new lighti ng in forwards

garden bed. RWP RWP RWP SVP G RWP G X2 Extg Extg 5. Remove existi ng driveway fi nishes and sub-base back to earth. Replace with new sub-base RE to suit new nom. 600 x 900 x 75mm natural stone fi nish. IC Extg Extg

MH Entrance, steps & ramp UTL 1. New bronze fi nished handrail to replace existi ng. 2. Ramp retaining wall dropped and side of ramp overclad in bronze fi nished metal sheet as IC conti nuati on of planter edge trim. 3. New nom. 600x900x30mm natural stone fi nish to replace existi ng to match new driveway A 06.02.2020 issued for information Fall Fall Fall FallWalkerbushe Architects Do not scale Fallthis drawing. Project Blackheath Halls Date Oct 2019 fi nish. B 11.02.2020 issued for information 6 Highbury Corner Check all dimensions site. Subject Proposed plan Scale 1:100@A3 Drop off / Ambulance London N5 1RD 4. Removal of rounded entrance staircase steps and re-instate a new steps more sympatheti c C 16.10.2020 updated for client meeting Refer to all other relevant Status For planning D 29.01.2021 updatedIC for planning +44 (0) 20 7697 0707 drawings and specifications. to the original arrangement with natural stone fi nish to match new driveway fi nish. New [email protected] In case of any discrepancy or handrail in bronzed metal fi nish to be fi tt ed. ambiguity refer to CA. Drg 663_201 Rev D Fall Fall walkerbushe.co.uk 5. Replace existi ng fl ood lighti ng with less polluti ng localized lighti ng around entrance. IC UTL 250 6. New low level planter to be formed with low level metal trim with bronzed fi nish. BLOCKED

Alleyway at side of main building 1. New gate and fence in painted ti mber fi nish to obscure view of alleyway to side of hall. bench 2. Existi ng ti mber fence at south boundary of site to be painted. 3470

At side boundary with Blackheath Conservatoire: 1. New low level planter with bronzed metal trim in front of existi ng fence.

Floor recessed light fitting to wash surface.

Recessed LED strip to wash floor

Small light fitting for low level ambient lighting amongst plants

Uplighter to light tree canopy

Proposed metal trim to perimeter 10 of planters / ramp wall. Generally 350mm off FFL except around ramp and steps. Length approx. 39.4m

A 06.02.2020 issued for information Walkerbushe Architects Do not scale this drawing. Project Blackheath Halls Date Oct 2019 B 11.02.2020 issued for information 6 Highbury Corner Check all dimensions site. Subject Proposed plan Scale 1:100@A3 London N5 1RD C 16.10.2020 updated for client meeting Refer to all other relevant Status For planning D 29.01.2021 updated for planning +44 (0) 20 7697 0707 drawings and specifications. [email protected] In case of any discrepancy or walkerbushe.co.uk ambiguity refer to CA. Drg 663_200 Rev D Blackheath halls

Design

New signage : place making + interacti ve

A variety of signage and street furniture by the front low wall and gate posts create a clutt ered appearance. The current poster boxes are quite discreetly placed and not very visible to footf all traffi c up and down Lee Road.

A totem sign and a digital signage are proposed to act as a means to mark the building’s presence on the street and identi fy the new entrance point. The improved visibility of both would help improve promoti ng Blackheath Halls as a vital art venue in the area.

Through discussions with the council in pre-app we determinde an appropriate locati on for the tall signage that is respectf ul to the heritage building fabric. It was advised in pre-applicati on that the tall signage should not be located centrally to the building and a locati on near the gate pier would be more appropriate. We have proposed a simple design with simple dark bronze colour metal with cut out lett ering and discreet uplighti ng which we believe complements the heritage asset and supports its evolving modern brand and usage.

The use of digital signage is now a growing trend in many important listed London Arts venues. Many art and cultural venues are embracing the agile world of digital media to build cohesive, visitor focussed experiences that bridge the gap between an online presence and physical reality.

An interacti ve digital signage is proposed at the new entrance point to bett er promote the presence of Blackheath Halls and the various acti viti es and functi on it can off er such as weddings, exhibiti ons, talks, workshops etc. It also helps integrate the current branding and Example of place making signage with cut out lett ering online presence of the art venue to create a more cohesive entrance experience for its users.

The digital sign will be discreet in form and fi t within the landscape proposed. The dark bronze colour metal casing will match the other metal work proposed on site, in keeping with the setti ng of the historic asset.

Example of digital signage at other art venues in London: (from left ) The Old Vic, Mockup of digital signage at new entrance in dark Victoria & Albert Museum bronze metal casing.

11 Blackheath halls Walkerbushe Design Architects

Deliveries - 7.5 tonne truck reversing in and driving out forwards

RWP RWP RWP SVP G RWP G X2 Extg Extg RE

IC Extg Extg

MH UTL New entrance point

The existi ng front wall and deep planti ng bed between the brick gate posts divides the hall from IC the streetscape. Hall users are oft en required to enter through vehicle entrances. It also reduces the visibility of the forecourt and main entrance which hinders the user’s experience of the building. Walkerbushe We propose to open up a small secti on of the front wall to bett er integrate the pavement and Fall Fallfront forecourt and more importantly create a moreFall direct access for pedestrians leadingFall to Fall Architects the hall’s main entrance. Together with new planti ng, this will help bring a greater sense of

openness. Drop off / Ambulance

IC Following pre-applicati on advice, the majority of the existi ng brick wall will be retained with pointi ng repaired. A small secti on of the existi ng brick wall will be removed with the left side set in relati ons to the existi ng brick wall return, as shown adjacent diagram, for approximately 3.5m in width. it will then ti e in with the new planter edge detail in dark bronze coloured metal plate, Fall Fall chosen as it complements the existi ng red brick of the wall. IC UTL

The 250existi ng TPO’d tree at the front planter is retained and protected. New up-lighti ng is IC proposed to illuminate the tree canopy and surrounding planti ng. A tree specialist will be BLOCKED appointed to assess any impact and monitor protecti on to the existi ng tree.

The current rounded steps connecti ng to the corner of the building do not match the original confi gurati on of the halls entrance steps as supported by record photos. We proposed to reinstate new steps in a recti linear format with new stone fi nish and new metal rail in dark

bronze colour which we trust is more sympatheti c to the period of the existi ng building. bench 3470

existi ng brick return with stone coping

Floor recessed light fitting to wash surface.

Recessed LED strip to wash floor

Small light fitting for low level ambient lighting amongst plants Lee Road SE3 Uplighter to light tree canopy

Proposed metal trim to perimeter of planters / ramp wall. Generally secti on of wall to be removed indicated in yellow 350mm off FFL except around ramp and steps. Length approx. 39.4m

Design Proposed design reference & material

Low level seati ng bench in re-consti tued stone fi nish Bronze eff ect metal trim to planter edge. Uplighti ng to into tree canopy.

Existi ng red brick facade of the hall Metal cutout lett ering to signage Natural stone paving Minimal round stainless retractable bollards

13 Blackheath halls

Access

Traffi c Management

The area at the front and to the side of Blackheath Halls is predominantly used as a pedestrian access to Blackheath Halls, the Conservatoire and Conservatoire Nursery, as well as a pedestrian Walkerbushe route between the Cator Estate and Blackheath Village. Architects

Deliveries - 7.5 tonne truck reversing in and driving out However limited vehicle access is permitt ed to this area for: forwards • Emergency services vehicles RWP RWP RWP SVP G RWP G X2 Extg Extg • Drop off point for audiences with limited mobility RE • Deliveries and services to Blackheath Halls and the Conservatoire where this cannot easily IC Extg Extg

happen to the rear of the building (for example brewery deliveries to the bar cellar, which is MH situated at the front of Blackheath Halls) UTL

Other vehicle access to the Halls (for other deliveries and services, and for staff , arti sts and hirers IC of the building) is at the carpark at the rear of the building. No audience parking faciliti es are provided, except for blue badge holders in the carpark. Informati on about public carparks and access to public transport for audiences is included on Blackheath Halls website. Fall Fall Fall Fall Fall

Drop off / Ambulance Under the new proposal, this will conti nue to be the case. However, the additi on of bollards in IC the plans will decrease the number of vehicles currently using this space without permission Fall (including anyone dropping off for classes at the Conservatoire, or rehearsals at the Halls etc.) IC UTL The bollards will be locked unless opened by staff at Blackheath Halls or the Conservatoire, who 250 BLOCKED will ensure this space is used only by those vehicles outlined above. Staff will also remind those drivers to exercise extreme cauti on as this is predominantly a pedestrian area, and ensure that vehicles do not block wheelchair access to the ramp. Keys for the bollards will also be off ered to the emergency services. bench 3470 The intenti on is that for those limited vehicles accessing the front of the building a one-way system will be in place, entering at the opening between the Halls and the Conservatoire, and exiti ng at the far corner of the Halls. However, this may not be possible for the occasional larger vehicles (including brewery deliveries and orchestral trucks) who will conti nue to need to reverse out of the space as at present.

Floor recessed light fitting to wash surface.

Recessed LED strip to wash floor

Small light fitting for low level ambient lighting amongst plants

Uplighter to light tree canopy

Proposed metal trim to perimeter of planters / ramp wall. Generally 350mm off FFL except around ramp and steps. Length approx. 39.4m

14 Blackheath halls

Heritage

Relevant Policy

Legislation in relation to listed buildings is contained within the Planning (Listed that at least sustains the significance of a heritage asset. Local policy Building and Conservation Area) Act, 1990. Section 72 of the Act places a duty on the decision taker to have special regard in respect of preserving or enhancing the Paragraph 196 deals with cases of less than substantial harm and notes that any such Greenwich Council has started work on a new statutory plan, the Local Development character or appearance of a conservation area. harm should be weighed against the public benefits of the proposal including, where Framework (LDF). This will comprise a suite of documents that will eventually replace appropriate, securing its optimum viable use. the current Greenwich Unitary Development Plan (UDP). National Planning Policy Framework Paragraph 200 notes that proposals which preserve elements of the setting of a The Royal Greenwich Local Plan (2014) policy: Section 16 of the NPPF deals with conserving and enhancing the historic environment. heritage asset that make a positive contribution to the assets significance, or schemes There is much emphasis on “significance”, defined in Annex 2 as: “The value of a within the setting of heritage assets which better reveal the significance of that asset DH(h) Planning permission will only be granted for proposals which preserve or heritage asset to this and future generations because of its heritage interest. That should be treated favourably. enhance the character or appearance of conservation areas, taking into account interest may be archaeological, architectural, artistic or historic. Significance derives local scale, the established pattern of development and landscape, building form and not only from a heritage asset’s physical presence, but also from its setting.” Paragraph 201 notes that not all elements of a Conservation Area will necessarily materials. Where the character of a conservation area is threatened by inappropriate contribute to its significance. LPAs should take into account the relative significance of development, the Council will seek to control these through the use of Article 4 Paragraph 189 of the NPPF places a duty on the Local Planning Authority (LPA) to the element affected and its contribution to the significance of the Conservation Area Directions. Development on sites in the vicinity of a conservation area and which require an applicant to describe the significance of any heritage assets affected by a as a whole. would have a visual effect on its character or appearance, should respect the setting of proposal, providing a proportionate level of detail. that area.

Paragraph 190 requires LPAs to identify and assess the “particular significance of any The English Heritage Conservation Principles DH (i,i) There will be a presumption in favour of the preservation of listed bu heritage asset”. This should be taken into account when considering the impact of a ildings. Listed Building Consent will only be granted for demolition or partial demolition proposal on a heritage asset, including by development affecting its setting. The English Heritage document Conservation Principles: Polices and Guidance for the in exceptional circumstances and will be assessed against the following criteria: Sustainable Management of the Historic Environment (2008) identifies four key values i. the condition of the building and the cost of repairs relative to its importance. Paragraph 192 requires LPAs to take account of the desirability of new development, ascribed to heritage assets and emphasises the importance of understanding these ii. the adequacy of efforts made to retain the building in use. making a positive contribution to local character and distinctiveness. The paragraph values to define the significance of a place. This assessment considers these four values iii. the merits of alternative proposals for the site. also notes that LPAs should take account of the desirability of sustaining and enhancing which are similar to those referenced in the NPPF definition of Significance: the significance of heritage assets and putting them to viable uses consistent with their DH(i,ii) in relation to listed buildings states that “Proposals for external or internal conservation. Evidential value: the potential of a place to yield evidence about past human activity. alterations or additions to Listed Buildings should respect the integrity of the buildings and harmonise with their special architectural or historical character. Where consent Conservation (for heritage policy) is defined in Annex 2 of the NPPF as: “The process of Historical value: ways in which past people, events and aspects of life can be connected is required for internal alterations, features of interest should be respected and left in- maintaining and managing change to a heritage asset in a way that sustains and, where through a place to the present. situ wherever possible.” appropriate, enhances its significance.” Aesthetic value: deriving from the way in which people draw sensory and intellectual The importance and relevance of this definition is that it does not suggest conservation stimulation from a place to be the same as preservation. Indeed, what sets conservation apart is the emphasis on proactively maintaining and managing change and not on a reactive approach to Communal value: deriving from the meanings of a place for the people who relate to it, resisting change. In its simplest interpretation conservation could amount to a change or for whom it figures in their collective experience or memory.

15 Blackheath halls

Heritage

Impact on the significance of the listed building Impact on the significance of the Conservation Area

The proposal alterations are limited to the ground level front external area and the non-original We appreciate the significance of the existing trees and planting to the overall ramp, steps and driveway area. character of the Conservation Area. The proposal will retain the existing trees and planting that faces the public realm and enhance the public’s enjoyment by introducing A small section of the existing front planter brick wall will be removed to create a new pedestrian seating and new landscaping. entrance point to the forecourt and building entrance.

The existing gate posts and majority of the boundary brick wall will be retained. Some necessary The scale of the proposals is such that the proposal is not considered to have any major repair work to pointing is proposed to maintain the heritage asset. effect on the Conservation Area. The materials used and the design detailing are such that the changes would be sympathetic to the context of Blackheath Park Conservation The scale of change to the existing listed building is very minor and any effect on the significance Area. will be proportionate. Overall the effect of the proposals on the appearance of the building will be very minor also. The proposal will create a greater sense of openness to the forecourt thus enhancing the physical enjoyment of the building and appreciation of the vista of Blackheath The proposed alterations to the front external area will help enhance the reading of the building Halls, a landmark building in the area. and help attract visitors to maintain the vitality of the use of the building.

The proposals are considered appropriate for the architectural and historic interest of the The new signage will be positioned responding to the fabric of the existing building and building. The main external envelope which embodies the building’s historic or architectural boundary structures. Their impact on the long views from both directions along Lee interest on Blackheath Park Conservation Area (ie the contribution it makes to the streetscape) Road are minimal, but will benefit the operation of the hall. will remain unaltered. In summary, the proposal will not cause any harm to the existing trees and planting. In summary, the scale of change perceived is very small and any consequent effect on the The proposed landscape work will also improve the reading and enjoyment of the local significance of the listed building is minimal. We consider the benefit of creating a more open landmark which benefits the Conservation Area. The distinctive character of the area and welcoming approach from Lee Road outweighs and perceived harm from removing a small would be maintained in the current proposals and thus there would be no harmful section of the existing brick wall. impact on the character of the Conservation Area. We therefore do not consider that the proposals would cause any harm to the significance of the listed building. We therefore do not consider that the proposal would cause any harm to the significance of the Conservation Area.

16 Blackheath halls

Heritage

Policy compliance

Statutory listing does not exclude the possibility of alteration, but requires that necessary The assessment includes thorough research and an understanding of the evolution of the alterations be carried out in a manner that will preserve the special architectural or historic property. In doing so it has been possible to establish what qualities the building has possessed interest that gave rise to the listing. It has generally been recognised that cultural venues such as historically and those it does currently. In this way, the proposals are assessed and judged on theatres and museums, by their nature, must continually update to meet advances in technology their own merits, but with consideration to the wider interest of preserving the character and and users expectations. appearance of the Conservation Area.

The proposals are considered to comply with local plan policy DH (h) concerning Conservation The proposals have been assessed against the policy and guidance set out within the National Areas. The proposals will respect and enhance the existing architectural language and character Planning Policy Framework and Greenwich’s Core Strategy. This assessment concludes that the of the conservation area taking into account local scale, landscape and materials. proposals accord with that policy and guidance and offer sympathetic and informed change with no impact on heritage significance. The proposals are considered to comply with local plan policy DH (i) concerning listed buildings. The proposals respect the integrity of the building and will not cause any harm to the special In accordance with National Planning Policy Framework this statement appraises the significance architectural or historical character of the listed building. The proposals are sympathetic to the of the heritage assets directly affected. building’s architectural and historic character and will enhance the enjoyment and vitality of it.

The proposals respond and comply with NPPF paragraph 196 which allows for alterations to heritage assets where the public benefit of the changes justifies the alteration.

The amount of intervention into the original fabric of the building is considered to be insubstantial as it only affects the external forecourt area and not any part of the original main building. The alteration to the front forecourt and addition of new digital signage are considered necessary to sustain the building and allow the Hall to remain a viable asset. The intervention is justified as it increases the understanding of the building’s merits to a wider public and reinforces its place as one of the oldest purpose built concert halls in London and any apparent harm is decisively out-weighed by the benefits.

The proposals respond and comply with NPPF paragraph 202 which acknowledges that the Local Authority can take into account alterations to listed buildings, which might not comply with the letter of its policies but can, when weighted against the future securing of a listed building, be acceptable.

The alterations will not harm the halls but rather they will reinforce its value as a multi-functional community asset and important public venue in south London. The long term future of the Halls will be secured through a steadier income stream which closely reflects the original purpose of the halls set out by the Blackheath Halls company limited in 1893. The proposal addresses the visibility and access issue of the current forecourt arrangement and will better complement the recently refurbished Blackheath Halls.

17 Blackheath halls

Conclusion

Summary

The proposal seeks to address the issues of the current external area fronting Lee Road and create a new forecourt to the building. The main objective is to improve the user’s approach to the building and the visibility of the main entrance from public realm.

The proposal was submitted for pre-application advice and the subsequently updated proposal for planning has addressed some of the key concerns, namely the treatment to the boundary wall, positioning of signage and the use of digital signage. With examples of successful use of digital signage in various heritage cultural venues in London, we consider there is a strong case to support its use without compromising the existing heritage asset.

Consultations have taken place with various key stakeholders such as The Blackheath Society, Friends of Blackheath Halls and the Blackheath Conservatoire. Overall the proposal was received positively and we have taken their feedback on board to improve the scheme.

As the historic background to Blackheath Halls demonstrates, the building originally came from the community and it is the objective of this application to optimise the frontage of the building and make the building more accessible to the local community and a wider audience.

The benefits of making the approach more comfortable, creating a more open and engaging forecourt and improving visibility will help to safeguard the building’s future. The alterations have been carefully considered to complement the refurbished Blackheath Halls and be sympathetic to the listed building and Conservation Area. It will not harm local or wider public interests, on the contrary there will be public benefit from securing this heritage asset for the future.