SudburyCONSERVATION AREA Hill APPRAISAL Area Number 10

udbury Hill Conservation Area forms the main approach to the Hill from the south and, at 77 acres (31 hectares), it is the largest conservation area in . It is largely characterised by prominent detached Sand largely unchanged Victorian villas of great charm and character. Buildings form both individual landmarks and cohesive groups. There is a largely ribbon like plan form following the spine route of and Road. This, combined with the winding nature of the roads, changes in gradient and dense vegetation, creates key internal views and an interesting and varied townscape. There are also key long distance and panoramic views due to the elevated land and detached nature of the properties to the north, and the more dispersed plan form and open land to the south. 1 Attractive vegetation lining Sudbury Hill

PART ONE: THE CONTEXT Buildings form both individual the spine route of Sudbury Hill landmarks and cohesive groups. and London Road. This, 1. Definition of special interest As a mark of this architectural combined with the winding and historic distinctiveness, there nature of the roads, changes in Sudbury Hill Conservation Area are 7 statutory listed buildings gradient and dense vegetation, forms the main approach to the and many more locally listed creates key internal views and Hill from the south and, at 77 properties. Residential use an interesting and varied acres (31 hectares), it is the dominates, usually as single- townscape. There are also key largest conservation area in family dwelling houses. A small long distance and panoramic Harrow on the Hill. It is largely proportion of larger buildings views due to the elevated land characterised by prominent are used for long-established and detached nature of the detached and largely health and educational properties to the north, and the unchanged Victorian villas of purposes. There is a largely more dispersed plan form and great charm and character. ribbon like plan form following open land to the south. Map to Show Changes to the Conservation Area Boundary Over Time

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2 There is attractive symmetry to many of the classically inspired villas

2. Planning Policy Context policy statement adopted in management strategy are set 1994. Much of the information, within the broader context of 2.1 The conservation area was ideas and policies from the conservation area policy designated in 1969 under the 1994 document have been guidance for Harrow contained 1967 Civic Amenities Act. This carried forward and developed within the Harrow Unitary status means it is considered an in line with current English Development Plan, the emerging area of 'special historic or Heritage guidance. Local Development Framework architectural interest, the and Harrow on the Hill character or appearance of 2.3 This appraisal and Conservation Areas which it is desirable to preserve or enhance'. The conservation Map to Show Sudbury Hill Conservation Area in Relation to area was extended to include All Harrow on the Hill Conservation Areas the eastern grounds of Chasewood Park and Clementine Churchill Hospital and its eastern grounds in 1992 as they were considered to be of significant landscape value. This boundary remains today. p The current and original 1969 N boundary are illustrated in the map on page 2.

2.2 Designation of a conservation area puts a duty on the local authority to assess the special interest of a conservation area and to develop management and enhancement proposals. So, this Conservation Area Appraisal (C.A.A.) evaluates the special character of the area and sets out opportunities for preservation and enhancement. This provides the basis for making sustainable decisions about its future through the development of management proposals. These are contained in the linked document 'Sudbury Hill Management Strategy'. Both the Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Strategy create a more up to date version of the existing Sudbury Hill 3 1990 Urban Morphology Map

Supplementary Planning Document which will accompany all Harrow on the Hill 1 Conservation Area Appraisals. The documents are also set within national policy guidance provided by Planning Policy 2 Guidance Note 15 and the Planning (Listed Building and Conservation Area) Act 1990. It is important to note that no 3 appraisal can be completely comprehensive and that the omission of a particular building, feature or open space should not be taken to imply that it is of little or no interest.

3. Location and Context

The Sudbury Hill Conservation Area is situated on the southern slopes of Harrow on the Hill. It spreads southwards from Harrow Park following the spine route of London Road and Sudbury Hill. It mainly includes properties on either side of these roads and also properties along offshoots such as Mount Park Avenue and South Hill Avenue. The area is Key bounded to the north by the 1) Flambards Manor was located on the site of the present flats at Harrow on the Hill Village numbers 21-41 London Road (south side of the junction of Conservation Area (see map on Hill and London road). - This was one of the most important early page 3) which is characterised 14th century freehold estates. Elements of this survived until 1885. This estate was subdivided in the 19th century to help create the by the High Street and a high ribbon like development evident today (see paragraph 4.6). density town centre feel. To the west it is bounded by Roxeth Hill 2) Site of the Hermitage - This is one of the oldest inhabited sites on that has Arts & Crafts style this side of the Hill. It is mentioned regularly in Manor Rolls from properties in varying densities. 1529 and buildings of one form of another are shown from the 18th century onwards. Mount Park Estate and South Hill Avenue Conservation Areas are 3) Site of Elizabethan watchtower - Illustrating the attractiveness of also to the west and are the land for military purposes a beacon tower was created in the characterised by quieter, more 16th century. This was one of a series of beacons reaching to the secluded and low density coast to be lit should the Armada from Spain appear in the Channel. It was demolished in 1968 but its footings are still apparent today. 4

Tollgate Cottage on the north east of London Road

residential development. To the built behind, creating cul-de- that several cottages were built east lies the Harrow Park sacs. in Tudor times for the keeper of Conservation Area which is the Butts, the remains of which characterised by the open 4.1 Early History and were incorporated into the 17th grounds of the golf club and the Medieval Period century Toll Gate Cottage on the very low density of development. Records indicate that the wider north-east of London Road The conservation area is Harrow on the Hill area in the shown in the historical therefore quite distinct in 8th century AD belonged to the development map. character from surrounding Saxon Kings of Mercia and it is areas. Development pressures probable that continuous 4.3 19th and early 20th have led to the increased settlement dates from this time. century potential for urbanisation of The area was attractive for early The 19th and early 20th parts of the conservation area. settlement due to its well water, centuries were a time of major This appraisal and management good drainage and military change, when much of the strategy seek to contain the advantages due to the height of development within the situation, particularly where the land. Development in the conservation area that we see harm would be caused to the area was largely limited, today was mapped out. A key conservation area. dispersed and piecemeal up driver of this was land enclosure. until Victorian times creating a The common field system on the 4. Historical Development rural aspect. The urban lower slopes of the hill lasted morphology map from Issac well into the sixteenth century, To understand an area's Messeder 1759 illustrates this, but land was gradually enclosed character today it is important to and annotates key examples of during the 18th century. The consider its history. Considering developments at this time that Enclosure Award of 1817 associations of properties and have influenced the present brought most of the remaining sites, the development of layout. It is clear that the main open land into private Sudbury Hill conservation area spine route of London Road and ownership, and opening it up to can be traced to the 8th century Sudbury Hill and the offshoot of development . Therefore by AD. The present layout and Roxeth Hill had been laid out by 1852 many plots of land on the buildings though can be directly this date. east side of Sudbury Hill had traced from the 18th century. been divided, and some already This is illustrated by the urban 4.2 The present layout of the built upon. By 1864 a large morphology maps (left) and the conservation area land was also number of Victorian villas had historical development map (see influenced by the 14th century been built in the area, especially page 6). From both it can be 'Shooting Butts' (archery butts). on the east side of Sudbury Hill. seen that early development was These are mentioned as early as This enclosure also created the concentrated along the main 1392 in the Manorial roll, and ribbon like pattern of spine route in a ribbon-like described as a grassy slope with development as it followed the fashion with a few buildings on seats set out like an backland areas. There was an existing main spine route evident amphitheatre. The archery butts accelerated phase of in the earlier 1759 urban were on the site of The Moat development in the late 19th morphology map. Lodge. It retains that sense of century and again in the openness of the once large twentieth century as the main 4.4 Residential development grassy site. This is important on spine route reached saturation continued on the Hill, with many point, meaning new roads were the corner site. Tradition has it Victorian families relocating to 5 the area. This was largely due to He employed Decimus Burton to and Sudbury Hill. the increasingly prestigious build Gothic Villas, which were status of the Hill as it had a built around 1830-1840 and 4.6 More residential reputation for clean air and the are now known as numbers 7- development had taken place by increasingly famous Harrow 17 London Road, on part of the 1895, both on the subdivided School. estate. Rev. W.W. Phelps, a plots of larger houses, and master at , around new roads such as 4.5 This development pressure bought and later divided the Mount Park Avenue and South also resulted in the subdivision Flambards Estate in 1831 Hill Avenue. This helped change of larger estates. Returning to forming ribbon like the area from the rural aspect to Flambards Estate, this was development. Parts of the the ribbon development along passed in 1825 to Major divided estates formed the plots the main road identified by the General Alexander MacGregor of many properties now lining 1895 historic OS map (page 4). the then owner of Harrow Park. the west side of London Road

Map to Show Historical Development

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St Dominics, The Mount, Mount Park formerly Bydell Avenue House

4.7 Alongside these residential 4.8 The regency style former Court (site of Gooden House). developments came more Bowden House (and also Also, this includes Chasewood institutional buildings. The formerly Sudbury Hill House) Park residential flat development development of St. Dominic's dates to 1820. It became a that was built on the site of the School and associated buildings school in 1890, then the family Sudbury Grove Estate. The is one example and can be home of Hugh Crichton Miller, chapel from the earlier convent traced to the development of who transferred the name of 1897-8 on this site was The Mount. The Mount (now Bowden to his newly opened rebuilt. To the south of the replaced with Bydell House) is clinic nearby. It later became the original site the Clementine located on the south side of sanatoriumfor Harrow School, Churchill Hospital was opened Mount Park Avenue. It was built and is now part of Harrow Fields in 1980. Again this responded by Samuel Hoare between 1807 Gardens. It therefore continued to the higher residential use in and 1817 as the mansion at the the trend for institutional the area. heart of his estate, the Mount development. Unfortunately this Park Estate. Also as part of his property was gutted by fire in 4.10 Adding to these slightly estate Mount Lodge, to the north 1980 meaning it has since been higher densities than previously of the Mount, was built in the rebuilt. The listed chapel that there have been householder second half of the nineteenth replaced this was originally built extensions and alterations century. Before enclosure for the Convent of the Visitation. characteristic of any residential Samuel Hoare owned large The site was later occupied by area. Furthermore, the areas of land west of Sudbury the little Company of Mary and increasing demand has meant Hill stretching southwards to named Calvary Nursing Home large back land garden areas where South Hill Avenue now (see 10.16). have been developed where lies. In 1858 his widow put 133 access has been possible. This acres of land up for salewhich 4.9 Mid to Late 20th Century includes High Brow and Syon was purchased by Elisabeth Development pressure continued both on London Road. At Brooke. An area of land over this period but there was a present the impact of these including Mount and Mount lower availability of land by this extensions and backland Lodge was later purchased by time. This has led to more developments has meant the low nuns of the Third Order of St. medium rather than low to medium densities have not Dominic. They moved there in densities of ribbon development been exceeded and surrounding 1878 and opened a girl's along the main spine route and open land, particularly to the boarding school. Armstrongs on offshoot roads and a more south, has been retained. Any Sudbury Hill was also part of the dispersed plan form evident in future such development should convent, probably used as a the urban morphology map from ensure this remains the case to coach house, originally called 1990 (see page 4). This is not detract from the special St. Dominic's Lodge. In 1921 because development had to character of the area. the chapel on Mount Park concentrate on redeveloping Avenue was opened by Cardinal existing sites, usually at slightly 5. Archaeology and Geology Bourne and in 1935 the new higher densities than at present, school building was built. Today mainly in the form of large flat An archaeological priority area the site is still occupied as a blocks located on the sites of covers a small area at the north school: St.Dominic's Sixth Form larger older houses, since of the Sudbury Hill conservation College. However, The Mount demolished. Examples include area. This is illustrated on the was subsequently rebuilt and Edward Court, Wendela Court 'Historical Development' map. renamed Bydell House. (site of Wendela), and Gooden Archaeology and geology for 7 Development of Density. Ranges from medium (left: picture of London Road) to low density (right: picture of south of Mount Park Road

this conservation area, and the these roads, providing a linear such as shingle or gravel. Where wider Harrow on the Hill area, focus. Development follows the harder materials are used this is are considered in the linked offshoot roads in a similar way. balanced with softer document entitled 'Harrow on However, towards the southern landscaping. Adding to the the Hill Supplementary Planning and more low lying end, and semi-rural theme an intimate Document'. away from the main route there and secluded feel is created in is more dispersed plan form as parts by: the length and height PART TWO: THE CHARACTER there are areas of more of roadside walls; the ribbon-like OF THE CONSERVATION secluded development either as plan form; areas of grass, AREA TODAY a small group of larger including grass verges, dense buildings, or a greater number planting, hedges, trees, and of smaller buildings. Also, important tree groups 6. Density of Development, although the main spine route (particularly to the south and Topography and Plan Form largely follows a south-easterly along offshoot roads such as direction, the route is winding Mount Park Avenue) that create The Sudbury Hill Conservation which, combined with the key internal views. In places Area has a medium to low changes in gradient and the though the enclosed feel this density of development. Medium offshoot routes, helps create an creates contributes to a more density can be found largely interesting and varied urban character. This character along London Road, whilst low townscape. is reinforced by: the width of the density is more common on the road; the wide pavements; the offshoots, away from the main tall heritage style lampposts; and spine route and to the southern 7. Townscape Character heavy traffic along the main end. The northern part of the Areas spine route. Also, whilst main spine route runs along the offshoots mainly become quiet, uppermost contour in this 7.1 Overview secluded lanes, Roxeth Hill conservation area 350 feet becomes more urban as it above mean sea level. The townscape varies from an approaches the lower lying Otherwise land is more sloping. informal, almost semi-rural areas. The varied character is Development follows these character to a more formal reinforced by, and provides the changes in gradient creating urban character from one setting for, the rich architecture stepped building lines. This is location to another. The former of buildings and strong building apparent along Sudbury Hill for is created by: the rich greenery forms ranging from 2 to 6 instance as it drops by 75 feet to and areas of open land, stories, and following the roads' 275 feet above mean sea level. particularly to the south; the set sloping gradient and changes in Similarly offshoots are generally back, detached or semi- direction. There is continuity of steeply sloping away from the detached nature of the character in the modern main route, particularly those properties; and the way land is developments though as they towards the north. The steep often steeply sloping along are unobtrusive, often partly slopes create key long distance offshoot roads. These features concealed, either by being set and panoramic views out of the break up the townscape, back, well screened and or set conservation area. The form is occasionally by providing long down due to the gradient of the dictated to a great extent by the distance and panoramic views. land which helps them to blend in. spine route of London Road and Driveways and forecourts to Sudbury Hill as properties are properties contribute here by 7.2 The conservation area can set in a ribbon-like pattern along being largely of soft materials, be subdivided into five character 8 Sudbury Hill - sweep and slope of road creates lively character

areas. However, it is important three stories, on either side. It are set back behind hedges and to note that the boundaries are still feels a part of the Harrow planting. Indeed, the townscape not definitive. on the Hill village centre. Also, opens considerably on the east the junction with Roxeth Hill side where a small cul-de-sac 7.3 Upper Level of Spine dominates here. Importantly accesses 27 to 41 London Route - London Road though a more spacious and Road, which are maisonettes set less built up feel is provided by back from the road. London Road follows the gently the high level of planting and an sloping ridge of the Hill awareness of the elevation due 7.4 Lower Level of Spine providing the link between the to the steeply sloping land Route - Sudbury Hill historic village core and Sudbury westwards down Roxeth Hill, Hill that descends to the south. providing views to the skyline. There is a more lively and varied There is an urban character due Similarly, a more open green character to this sub-area than to the busy main road and character is present as there are the previous since Sudbury Hill relatively tall buildings, often occasional verges and buildings Sub Character Areas of Sudbury Hill Conservation Area

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9

Sudbury Hill Steep - open junction - space South Hill glimpsed Avenue from main road

follows the slope of the Hill although still busy with traffic, greenery frames long distance down towards Sudbury and takes on an almost semi-rural views to the horizon created by , changing direction character, with large areas of the steep gradient, although slowly at first, and then more open space to both sides these views are more limited for dramatically. Indeed, the sweep glimpsed behind roadside the winding South Hill Avenue. and change in direction is planting, grass verges and walls. The greenery is particularly emphasised by the vertical In many places the spaces strong at the junction of South emphasis of the buildings (up to between and around these Hill Avenue as there is a 5 stories), roadside walls, and buildings are particularly landscaped area of public open density of trees which line it. important in both providing space to the west of the These factors create a sense of settings for buildings and breaks entrance way where hedges, enclosure, limiting most views to and contrasts within the trees, and a raised grass lawn the immediate street scene. This townscape. Despite the diversity, provide a setting for benches. As means there is a segmented feel there are attractive and cohesive the roads descend the high level to the road. Adding to this sense groupings of villas, especially on of greenery is maintained, of enclosure, towards the mid the east side of the road to the except on the east side of South section of the road many north, as well as more individual Hill Avenue where there is a buildings on the east side are properties, which catch the eye more medium density of elevated to some degree with a with their strong forms and greenery. green backdrop of dense tree intricacy of detailing. planting. Adding a dramatic 7.8 These roads are contrast to the sheltered 7.6 Steep Junctions - South characterised by a few character though there are Hill Avenue and Roxeth Hill prominent, decorative historical occasional long distance views These junctions have a dramatic buildings. The more modern both to the south and the west, character due to their width and developments around allow often at junctions with other as the land falls away steeply these historical properties and roads, or gaps in the streetside westwards, whilst the main spine greenery to dominate, as they greenery and buildings. route of London Road and are unobtrusive by being often: Similarly, towards the sharp Sudbury Hill continues to set back, well screened with bend in Sudbury Hill, the descend southwards. This greenery, only ever fronting the attractive staggering and character is emphasised at road on one side, if at all, and grouping of properties serves to South Hill Avenue as the relatively low lying if near to the deflect the view, providing prominent, two storey Gooden main road. interesting townscape. Cottage stands at the peak thereby highlighting the changes 7.9 Private and Secluded Side 7.5 Adding to the sense of in levels. Roads variety, the gradient of Sudbury The other offshoots from the Hill slopes to the west just south 7.7 A softer and greener feel is main spinal route are of the junction with South Hill created at these junctions characterised by more intimate, Avenue, and to the east along compared to the more urban secluded characteristics. This is the boundary of Clementine environment further north, as most strongly the case for Green Churchill Hospital, which helps there is particularly dense public Lane and Julian Hill (only the development either side in these and private planting along the entranceway of the latter is places to appear less dominant. roadside in grass strips; central within the conservation area). The southern end of the road, islands; trees; and hedges. This For the former (which runs off 10 Julian Hill, Mount Park seclusion and Avenue - enclosure shady created partly green by the dense character greenery the junction with Sudbury Hill the walkway and have dispersed, low density and South Hill Avenue), this is unobtrusive designs. Its development and a shady, green due to it being a narrow sloping atmosphere is strengthened as nature due to public and private walkway, notably absent of the walkway is almost concealed planting in grass verges and properties and continuously from view being set back behind public and private trees and lined with dense public and a relatively large area of public hedges. It acts as a transition private planting that creates a green space on this junction with route from the busier Sudbury tunnel of greenery. Whilst the planting either side of the Hill to the leafier Mount Park rear of properties along South opening. Estate. In particular, the view of Hill Avenue, Leabank Close and the road is closed by trees in the Harrow Fields Gardens are 7.10 A private and secluded distance creating an overall vaguely visible through this, they character is less present along impression of a country lane at do not detract from the the Mount Park Avenue offshoot the end. dominant secluded character as when St Dominic’s is open, they are set back, do not face although the road has Map - Views Into, Within and Out of Sudbury Hill Conservation Area

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11 Clementine Lincoln House, Park Churchill Lodge and Hospital Highlands. Strong grounds - open forms and cohesive green and grouping of buildings rural character form key views

7.11 The secluded nature is also their entranceways are lined with Gardens and the offshoot mirrored along: the driveway to dense greenery that helps towards the John Lyon School Bowden House; Rama Court; obscure the main bulk of the add to their informal nature. Herga Court (entrance route residential and school properties only within the conservation behind. The buildings add to this 7.12 Surrounding area); Harrow Fields Gardens; character since they are Metropolitan Open Land and the offshoot towards the unobtrusive as they are often North-east offshoots towards John Lyon School pavilion at the quite low and relatively small. Clementine Churchill Hospital southern end of the conservation They have a low density and are and Chasewood Park are area. This is because through often sited so that they are not characterised by more open and views from the main spine road immediately visible from the rural characteristics. This is due are limited and the roads are entranceway. The relatively to their gently winding nature, winding. Similarly, the informal, dispersed plan form of and the way commercial or secluded character is evident as properties within Harrow Fields Land use map of Sudbury Hill Conservation area

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12 Largely residential character to the area

flatted development is mainly westwards down Roxeth Hill and pressure and therefore the focused in one block, set well to the skyline beyond. potential to cause the greatest back from the main spine route Occasionally sloping land harm to the conservation area. allowing open green land to creates a staggering of buildings Both Harrow School and surround it and have a strong providing good roofline views. St.Dominic's Sixth Form College visual impact. The gently sloping The frequent greenery and trees account for land and properties nature of the land adds to the serve as a key source of views, on the west side of London Road open character of both for example north-east of and Sudbury Hill. On the east offshoots. For the former this is Sudbury Hill to the rear of side, Bowden House (St. achieved by obscuring the main Chasewood Park, and as a Andrew's) Private Clinic and the bulk of the development from feature within them, particularly Clementine Churchill Hospital the spine route. Conversely for through framing. The larger both occupy large sites the latter this is due to the areas of open land are available providing residential health care. prominence of the concentrated along the low lying southern Historically these land uses are development set on the peak of areas and/or along offshoot well established in the area (see a hill. Also, this character is roads. The few long distance historical development section). present to the south of the panoramic views that are These uses have expanded and Harrow Fields Gardens offshoot, available are possible from this developed during the last which backs onto the John Lyon area. Many key examples are seventy years or so. Such School playing fields. The highlighted in the map on page development has been restricted above characteristics reflect 11, although it is important to to existing sites but there is these areas' status as note that this is not a constant pressure for new Metropolitan Open Land. comprehensive list. development on the sites, especially at St Dominic's, which 8. Key Views 9. Land Use has limited room for expansion but continues to grow. It The strong forms and intricate 9.1 The area is largely in arguably poses the largest threat detailing of buildings and their residential use, mainly as single- to the conservation area, not cohesive groupings creates the family houses. However, a small only from pressure for further focus for many important views. number have since been expansion but also from traffic Also, the mainly ribbon like form converted to flats and there are pressures from high amounts of of this development and the also a few late 20th and early cars coming to and from the sweep and change in direction 21st century purpose built flats school, as well as parked of the road creates some mainly along offshoot roads. vehicles marring views within the enclosure and therefore area.. attractive inward looking views. 9.2 Large areas of land also This is emphasised by long hold various educational and 9.3 There are no business uses roadside walls and tree masses health uses (see land use map). within this conservation area. enclosing the street scene. Also, These non-residential uses Generally as Harrow on the Hill the elevation, sloping gradient, generally make a positive is not a district or local centre offshoots and/or gaps in the contribution to the vitality and office development is not a streetside greenery and buildings character of the conservation preferred use in the interests of means there are some key area, provided that they are residential amenity, traffic and intermittent longer distance controlled. These uses often parking. Obviously the best use views, for example the view have the greatest development for a historic building is the use 13 West Acre - The Mount locally House - listed, Grade II classically Regency inspired villa villa for which it was designed and The majority of buildings within positive unlisted. There is later wherever possible this original the Sudbury Hill Conservation early, mid and late 20th century use should continue. However, Area fall into three categories in infill development that tends to in some instances a new use terms of their architectural style: be more neutral in quality that preserves the character of elegant Classical style villas; Arts although often still make worthy the building as far as possible and Crafts houses or Gothic contributions to the character of may be necessary for the revival style houses. These the area. Despite the variety in preservation of a historic traditional style properties are styles, designs are generally building. mainly found along the main harmonizing using high quality spine route where properties are materials such as timber 10. Architectural Qualities predominantly early- to mid- windows and slate roofs. Also, Victorian. These tend to be there is general continuity in 10.1 Summary positive in quality and so they terms of size, siting and bulk. are listed, locally listed or Properties all front, and are set

Map Identifying Listed, Locally Listed, Positive, Neutral and Negative buildings

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21 Harrow Simple Fields elegance of gardens - Wilmington bow-bayed House, Regency London Road buildings back from, the road. They are classically inspired grandeur symmetrical rectangular detached or semi-detached and through, for instance, prominent frontage, with delicately and have a vertical emphasis as they porches, triangular pediments evenly glazed sash windows and are of 2 to 6 stories, although above doorways and windows, a continuous string course apparent bulk is often lessoned including some dormers, and between ground and first floor by roof dormers and basements. the use of brick, stucco or stone level. The quoin detail adds to Where there is sloping of the pillasters or columns in porches, the refined elegance created by land the buildings are stepped bay windows or other parts of these features. to reflect this. the frontage. Despite adding interest, decoration remains 10.5 Located in what is now 10.2 Classical Style Villas restrained. On occasion known as Harrow Fields refinement is emphasised as Gardens, a modem housing The early to mid Victorian there are: ground floor bay development, is what was once properties tend to be simple, windows; gauged brick arches; the Harrow School Sanatorium elegant, Classical style villas quoins; bracketed eaves; and/or (now 21 Harrow Fields There are also later Classical simple string courses that Gardens). The original building properties such as West Acre. complement the well was built around 1820 as a 2 They are mainly symmetrical with proportioned design. bow-bayed Regency building square or rectangular facades was known as Sudbury Hill and unobtrusive chimneys sited 10.3 Examples of Classical House and was considerably to complement the balanced Style Villas extended over time. However, in design. They are also well- 1980 a serious fire gutted proportioned due to the simple The locally listed 'West Acre' on virtually all of the building recessed white painted timber London Road has a simple leaving only the facades intact. sash windows, that have delicate rectangular frontage with large The building has since been evenly spaced glazing bars, and light red brick, strip pilasters refurbished and sensitively reduce in size towards the roof. separating the bays, and a converted as part of a larger Indeed, they are of 3 to 5 stories modillion eaves cornice that housing scheme, retaining some and apparent bulk is minimised together give the property of its character. In particular the through the use of hipped roofs, decoration and proportion. three bays with sashed windows, dormers (either small ones within Classically inspired detail is the mutule cornice and blocking the hipped roof or contained particularly evident in the large course over, present an elegant within a more flat attic space), Doric columned entrance porch. elevation. and basements. Adding to the This is a particularly impressive dignity of their design there are and imposing Classical style villa 10.6 On occasion the simple occasionally continuous eaves as it was designed as a Harrow elegance and vertical emphasis lines, as these are detached and School boarding house in 1912. of these Classical style villas is semi-detached properties with emphasised as they are grouped no gable ends. Grandeur is 10.4 The Mount House on together. For example, Lincoln often emphasised through the Sudbury Hill is a Grade II listed House, Highlands and Parkside addition of stone steps leading Regency villa. It is of three on London Road (see picture top to the entranceway (which storeys, although the apparent right of page 12), are yellow occasionally has a fanlight), bulk of the upper level is stock brick three storey buildings bracketing to the eaves, and low lessoned as it is contained within with common use of a square, level decorative wrought iron dormers in the hipped roof. This part stucco, frontage; prominent balconies. There is also classically inspired porches; is well proportioned as it has a 15 Glimpse of Arts ‘Gooden and Crafts style Cottage’ on the ‘The Orchard”, corner of South from Sudbury Hill Avenue Hill and Sudbury Hill

string courses and decorative 10.9 Arts & Crafts Houses designed by Baillie Scott in his eaves and timber sash windows. and Gothic Style Villas typical roughcast vernacular Each has individuality though as manner. The house is arranged for instance 'Lincoln House' has In contrast to the former in an asymmetrical plan added classical detail with two Classical group the later presenting an attractive model lions topping either side Victorian villas have a greater collection of weatherboarded of the porch and Highlands has air of decadence as there is gable ends to the street scene. added elegance due to its quoin more decorative detail and they The building has a steeply tiled detail. tend to be asymmetrical and roof. It also has features such as constructed of many different a panelled oriel (curved bay 10.7 Longridge, Kingsley and sections rather than a relatively above ground) window to the Edgehill on London Road form a simple design. These can right gable. The house was group of stucco fronted elegant generally be divided into Arts & originally designed for the Swiss Victorian villas. Their linked nature Crafts and Gothic style musician Alfred Bussweiler, for emphasises their vertical emphasis properties, although there is whom Scott also designed although apparent bulk is overlap between them. The furniture. The planning of the concealed as lower and upper former tend to have tall house and its irregularity is level bulk is contained within chimneys, steep sloping roofs, accounted for by Scott's wish to basements and roof storeys casement windows, gable ends, preserve an old tree and to form respectively. All entrances have a decorative bargeboards and a a courtyard around it. short set of wrought iron more irregular footprint than the balustrated steps in front adding to regency style properties. 10.11 'The Orchard' on Sudbury their sense of grandeur. Classical Occasionally an ''Old World'' Hill, designed by Arnold detail is provided by the porches, mock Tudor feel is created Mitchell, and built in 1900, is a which have either Doric columns through the addition of black Grade II statutorily listed or pilastered doorcases and timber and white render detail, building. The house and garden decorative tryglyth or dentilled small casement windows, the were designed as a whole entity frieze panelling. Each property is first floor protruding out beyond for the architect himself, unique however. Lincoln for the ground floor and a low lying displaying his full skill in creating instance has rusticated stucco at nature. The Gothic style is an attractive 'Arts and Crafts' the ground floor level. Another similar yet these properties tend style house on a tight site. The point of interest for one of this to have a greater vertical important building presents a group is that Kingsley House is emphasis, pointed arched low lying steeply pitched stone named after the novelist Charles windows, battlement detail and slate clad roof and tall heavy Kingsley although it appears he tracery detail. There are also chimneys. Again there is an Old may have lived elsewhere in the patterns in the brickwork and World feel as there are small road. roofs (including diapering and casement windows with square banding) as darker colours are leaded lights. The rest of the 10.8 Other examples of used against lighter colours. building is hidden behind a well Classical style buildings in this weathered and attractive wall, conservation area include which is older than the house. Marston Lodge, Moat Lodge, 10.10 Examples of Arts & Crafts 10.12 On the corner with South Uplands and Wilmington House Style Villas Hill Avenue on Sudbury Hill is on London Road and Woodcroft The statutorily Grade II* listed the locally listed 'Gooden on Sudbury Hill, all of which are 'The White Cottage' on Sudbury Cottage', once known as 'The 16 locally listed. Hill dates to 1908 and was Lodge'. The design by Higgs and Toll Gate Grade II Cottage - listed Gothic thought to style Chapel have originally by Sir Giles been a Coach Gilbert Scott House

Rudkin owes much to Richard 10.14 Other examples of Arts & an interesting Grade II listed Norman Shaw, who was a key Crafts style buildings in this chapel designed by Sir Giles influence in the Arts & Crafts conservation area include Park Gilbert Scott, dating to 1905-6. movement, and dates to 1881. Lodge and Little Court on The original chapel was The building is asymmetrical London Road. designed by an architect called with a steeply pitched roof with Thomas Garner and completed ridge tiles, tile hanging and 10.15 Examples of Gothic in 1902. However, within three imitation timbered gable with Style Villas years the building had to be finial. There is an Old World, demolished and rebuilt due to mock Tudor feel as casement Near to the junction with Roxeth severe structural problems. windows have small panes with Hill and London Road is the Another architect, Giles Gilbert mullions and transoms and there distinctive grade II listed 'Toll Scott, at that time-sharing the is an Ipswich (overhanging) Gate Cottage'. The building is same office as Garner, was window and part of the first floor timber framed and is thought to chosen for the new work. Scott elsewhere overhangs. An have originally been a part of a kept largely to Garner's plan but attractive and prominent timber stable and coach house on this managed subtle reordering of porch with balcony over is site, then known as Park Cottage the main elevations to give the situated on the South Hill which accounts for its relatively chapel a much more substantial Avenue elevation. The insertion low level. It was probably effect. It was constructed of red of a bow window in place of the converted around 1864. It has a brick with stone dressings and original stone mullioned window later asymmetrical stuccoed decorated in the Perpendicular is an unfortunate alteration. façade with four casement style. There are traceried Gothic (lancet) style windows, windows for instance. 10.13 In contrast to the the two first floor ones are half generally vertical emphasis, dormers with curved tops. 10.17 The locally listed 7 to 17 larger scale and asymmetry of London Road (Gothic Villas) are the previous properties, the 'Little 10.16 Forming part of the constructed of many different House' and the 'Hermitage' on Chasewood Park flat sections opposite Mount London Road are a pair of development off Sudbury Hill is Pleasant. They are an symmetrical low level, two storey Grade II* Arts and Crafts style villa by Baillie Scott cottages. They have a decorative cogged course between ground and first floor levels. Each cottage has two canted bay windows, and half gable end dormers with simple bargeboards over. Both have their own entrance door with attractive dripmoulds over. Despite their relatively small scale, there is an attractive tall chimney stack to the centre, holding four chimney stacks above, emphasising their symmetry. 17 Plain Block design Classically of late 20th inspired 1 century flats. and 3 Although roof London levels reflect Road topography

asymmetrical brown brick architectural style. Indeed there and along Herga Court. The flat building rising to three stories in is battlemented parapet detail blocks along the corner with the centre that emphasises the and a turret with pointed spire Roxeth Hill, are each conjoined grandeur of the twin centre above. Windows have square as compared with the detached gable ends. The windows are leaded lights with trefoil tracery and semi-detached nature of inset casement style of varying detail. It also features a stained properties elsewhere. Also, the designs whilst the doors are also glass window by Wilfred Hill. Its white uPVC cladding is a design inset with pointed arches. They steeply pitched roof with tile feature and use of materials not were originally known as 'Gothic banding detail ensures it sits compatible with that found House' around 1825 to 30 and neatly in its surroundings. traditionally in the conservation designed by Decimus Burton for area. The modern properties in Major Alexander MacGregor, 10.20 Other examples of Harrow Fields Gardens do not the then owner of Harrow Park. Gothic style buildings in this blend well due to their terraced conservation area include nature and the use of ground 10.18 Further along London Beechbank and Mount Lodge on floor garages not generally Road is the locally listed 'The Mount Park Avenue and The found on the more historical Gerards', a very distinctive Woodlands on London Road, all properties of interest. This also building largely due to its stone of which are locally listed. includes the single family dressings and two battlement dwelling houses along South Hill style, stepped, unevenly sized 10.21 20th Century and Early Avenue (Anastasia, Amaryllis, and levelled gables facing 21st Century Development Palmlands, The Pines and London Road. This style is a 1930s development includes red Rahail's Lodge). These have reminder of the Grade II listed brick properties of a size and unevenly divided uPVC windows, Old Schools building which is of siting to harmonise with the integrated ground floor garages a similar date and is within the earlier villa developments. Also, and porches, and no clear style Harrow School conservation they blend in as their design is to the roofs. Development has area. There are stone framed similar to that of the simple also consisted of extensions and windows, a single lancet Classical style villas as they have alterations. This has not always (arched) window and a lancet square or rectangular facades matched the original quality of front door. The side addition, with hipped roofs, sash windows the conservation area as for whilst relatively modern in and some classical detail on example these do not use a appearance, works well since it their entranceways. This is quality of materials or design to is lightweight and unobtrusive. mainly found along the lower match the original. For example, parts of Sudbury Hill for example a small number of delicately 10.19 St.Dominic's Chapel, on Bredon and Burnham. glazed timber windows have Mount Park Avenue, was built in been replaced with thick poorly 1924 and designed by Arthur 10.22 Later 20th century proportioned uPVC glazed Young of Young and Reid, also development tends to have a windows. Also, side extensions the architect of the statutorily largely plain block design, and a have often been to the detriment listed Church of Our Lady and plan form and a quality of of the character of the area. This St Thomas of Canterbury in materials that do not blend well conservation area is Roxborough Park. This stone with the earlier properties in the characterised by detached or chapel is designed in a conservation area. This includes semi-detached properties. The conservative Perpendicular style the flat blocks just set back from spaces in between serve to that is a type of Gothic London Road and Sudbury Hill break up the street scene. Side 18 Grade II Green Lane - listed red gravel telephone surface adds kiosk to its country lane character extensions eliminate this feature reds can also be found. Also a 12.2 However, there are two and cumulatively would create a large number of properties, benches of historical interest by terraced effect. especially those dating to virtue of association. One is Regency or early Victorian located on the north west of 10.23 However, this is not to say periods feature stucco treatment London Road. It is dedicated to that all late 20th and early 21st to external elevations. Louis Moriarty who was a century development lack Harrow School Master from qualities in keeping with the 11.2 A wide range of architectural 1889 to 1917. It is inscribed character of the area. The siting ornamentation is found in the 'SCHOLAR, PHILOSOPHER, and bulk is usually in keeping as area from simple brick, stone or FRIEND'. A second is the bench they are set back from the main plaster cornices and string also located on the north east road, partly screened (often by courses, to ornately detailed side of Sudbury Hill. This is dense vegetation) and not pediments and brackets to window inscribed 'TO THE MEMORY OF unduly bulky or obtrusive given openings and eaves. Decorative MARY BUSHELL RESIDENT OF the surrounding buildings. They ironwork, an otherwise unusual HARROW HILL FROM 1867 TO are also stepped to follow the feature for the wider Harrow area, 1928'. Mary Bushell was the slope of the land. Also, the style is found in the form of railings, widow of the Rev. William Done can conform well to the existing window guards and balconies on Bushell, Assistant Master at main traditional styles. For some of the larger Victorian Harrow School from 1866 to instance, 1 and 3 London Road buildings normally for those of a 1899. He lived at The match the existing Classical style Classical style. Hermitage, London Road, later of some of the early to mid Bowden House Clinic, until his Victorian properties along this 11.3 Traditionally detailed death in August 1917. His road. Also, many of the 1960s external joinery, usually painted widow continued to live there and 1970s flat blocks within the white is also commonly found. until her death in 1928. There conservation area have a good Indeed, there are often is a memorial to them in the degree of green space around decorative bargeboards on the Grade I listed St. Mary's Church, them providing a sense of Arts & Crafts and Gothic style openness that blends in with properties. Windows in the form Decorative ironworks, a key earlier development. of elegant sashes and more feature of many larger, classically simple casements are usually inspired Victorian buildings 11. Prevalent and Traditional contemporary to the age and Building Materials and Local architectural style of the Details building.

11.1 The buildings within the 12. Streetscape conservation area, although of mixed ages and architectural 12.1 Street Furniture styles, are constructed almost Generally the range of street entirely of traditional building furniture within the area is materials. The predominant limited to roadside lampposts overall pattern is of yellow stock and a number of seating areas brick under grey slate roofs, incorporating wooden and or although a rich range of bricks iron benches with varying from browns through to mellow degrees of planting around. 19 Longridge House Boundary - railings treatments create compliment the a sense of formal classically enclosure and inspired emphasise sweep architecture of the road

the landmark building of Harrow which provides an attractive grass verges or grass banding, on the Hill. element in the street scene. which helps to create a softer and more varied character. 12.3 Also, there is a grade II 12.4 Roadscape and Indeed, in some places the listed red telephone kiosk Pavements pavements are sufficiently wide outside on London Road. This is Generally the roads are of an that there are small areas of of a K6 style that was designed urban appearance in terms of landscaping and seating. by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott to their width, materials used and commemorate the silver jubilee the use of road markings. Also, 12.5 Areas of more historic of King George V. This design the pavements are floorscape can be found. For has become a British icon. predominantly of more modern example the pavement outside Furthermore, other street materials. However, the Longridge, Kingsley and Edgehill furniture includes a George VI pavements are of differing is made from massive slabs of pillar box opposite Queensgate widths, in some instances with York stone, covering the coal and Kingsgate in Sudbury Hill, cellars beneath, their presence MAP: Important Trees, Metropolitan Open Land and Site of Nature Conservation Within Sudbury Hill Conservation Area

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20 Front Small area of gardens: any Public Greenery hardsurfacing at junction of is balanced South Hill with greenery Avenue and Sudbury Hill betrayed by the covered although in these cases they suburbia. Importantly though coalholes set into the stone. complement the more formal, public and private greenery Also, the steep Green Lane classically inspired architecture throughout provides the setting walkway is of soft gravel adding of these properties and allow to buildings, breaks up the to its country lane feel. There is through views. streetscene and helps create a also a gravel surface along semi-rural character, softening London Road which adds a 12.8 Along the mid to lower what could otherwise be a hard softer character. This was funded section of the spinal route, roadscape. Although a small as part of the regeneration boundary treatments create a number of front gardens now scheme for the Hill. continuous sense of enclosure have some degree and extent of thereby emphasising the winding hardsurfacing to create driveway 12.6 Boundary Treatments nature of the road. This is access, importantly this is often Boundary treatments are an because relatively high, long balanced as far as possible with important part of the character brick walls are and/or tall dense greenery. Appropriate planting of the area and remain largely planting is used that follows the also serves to mitigate the visual historically and architecturally sweep of the road. Importantly, impact of more modem correct for the properties that aside from The Orchard, the boundary treatments. Notably they front. They create a sense height of walls does not prevent small areas of public of harmonising variety as they through views to the attractive landscaping including elements mainly consist of a range of buildings behind. The high walls of street furniture play a major informal, soft treatments create a more formal character role in enhancing the street including hedges, dense again. Importantly though this is scene and should be preserved planting, low lying brick walls, or mitigated by stretches of low and maintained. There is for a combination of these. The walls, breaks in boundary instance an area adjacent to the colour of brick used is generally treatments for driveways. junction with South Hill Avenue soft, blending with both the Stretches of dense planting on, that combines trees, shrubs and surroundings and the building around, and behind these high several benches providing relief that it bounds. Less often fencing walls also help. here. is used, although these have non-prominent siting, usually to 13. Green Spaces and 13.2 Considering trees the rear of properties and/or in Ecology specifically the area contains combination with dense many fine specimens as groups, greenery thereby adding to the 13.1 The area contains much in woodland and individually semi-rural character. fine public and private greenery (see map on page 20). Forest and open spaces in the form of type trees growing on the Hill in 12.7 There is a more formal gardens, grass verges, lawns, this area are of particular character created to the north shrubs, hedges and a variety of importance because of their east of Sudbury Hill as there are trees. Green open space is skyline impact. Oak, Beech and low railings used either on their particularly dominant to the Hornbeam are particularly own alone or topping low brick south as highlighted by the large important as well as Ash and walls, or as gateways. These are stretches of Metropolitan Open Sycamore which need careful found, for instance, to Land here (see map on page control and management. Such Longridge, Kingsley House and 20). This creates a distinct and forest type trees should, where Edgehill. Railings are not visually attractive break between replacement becomes necessary, appropriate in all instances the Hill and the surrounding be replanted with similar types to 21 Properties in a poor state of repair

ensure continuity of character. the 'Sites of Importance for much additional protection. This Understorey trees are necessary Nature Conservation in Harrow' suggests an Article 4 (2) to complete the picture, such as document. direction may be beneficial Holly, Hawthorn, Blackthorn and following a careful survey and Field Maple. Together with the PART 3: SUMMARY OF justification. This would have the evergreen Scots Pine and a wide SUDBURY HILL effect of requiring planning variety of ornamental species CONSERVATION AREA permission for development that and unusual specimens the would otherwise not require it. Sudbury Hill Conservation Area 14. General Condition of the Also, a small number of has a rich and varied landscape. properties could benefit from Area Many are already protected with minor repair and re-painting Tree Preservation Orders (see works. The streetscene quality is 14.1 The general condition of map on page 20). All trees within generally high, benefiting from a the area is good. This is firstly in the area are also protected by the significant level of public and terms of its economic vitality in Conservation Area status, private greenery and unobtrusive the relevant areas (through requiring that all tree work is boundary treatments. However, schools and health facilities). subject to six weeks notice in there is a high level of traffic The physical condition of historic writing to the Council. and pavements and road buildings and other heritage surfaces could benefit from assets is also generally good. 13.3 The extent of the greenery resurfacing. Any hardsurfacing Indeed, many are listed or creates an area of some of front gardens should be well locally listed buildings and often biodiversity value. Indeed, a balanced with soft landscaping. retain original features. large part of the grounds of the Enhancement proposals to However, whilst the above Clementine Churchill Hospital address these issues are covered highlights the high quality of are included within a Site of in the linked management these properties, aside from Nature Conservation Interest, document. those with statutory listed status, and described in some detail in these properties do not have

15. Negative Features, Problems, Pressures 15.1 Negative features, pressures and issues are touched upon in the section above but are comprehensively outlined in the following tables. They are elements that detract or potentially detract from the special character of the area and offer the potential for improvement. A separate document entitled 'A Management Strategy for Sudbury Hill Conservation Area' addresses this. In dealing with development proposals within the area the Council will be mindful of securing opportunities to enhance these detractions. Negative Features, Location Description (Why negative? Scale? Design? Condition? Pressures, Issues Unauthorised work?) The level and speed of Along London Road and This creates a harder urban character at odds with the otherwise softer, traffic flows Sudbury Hill leafy, secluded and spacious character of the conservation area. It also detracts attention from the quality of the architecture. Hardsurfacing of front Intermittent throughout the This removes greenery that is characteristic of the area and important gardens and the creation conservation area (for in breaking up the streetscene. Also, hardsurfacing is often for the of driveways. example, Mountside and purpose of creating driveways that break up the continuity of the Oakside, Sudbury Hill) boundary treatments.

22 Areas of onstreet parking detract from the street scene

Flat conversions Intermittent throughout the This area is characterised by large single family dwelling houses. conservation area (for Conversions lead to the insertion of driveways with the problems that example, Uplands and this involves outlined above. Also, it can lead to further alterations Parkside, London Road) such as rooflights, extensions and external steps that detract from the original character of the properties. Bumpy, broken pavement Intermittent throughout the These create a run down character that detracts from the setting of the and roads and conservation area special quality of the conservation area. patchwork effect due to works Empty plot on the site of Sunningdale, 40 London The site remains empty and an eyesore following the demolition of the 40 (Sunningdale) London Road original building. There is consent for a replacement building and Road that was works have begun on site, but it is not clear how far they might demolished in the early progress. 21st century. Properties in a state of Intermittent throughout the A number of properties are in a state of disrepair. For example, stucco disrepair conservation area (for is deteriorating on the frontage of Longridge. example Longridge, London Road) Removal of important East side of Sudbury Hill, The Victorian cast iron seat, although damaged, is considered of some historical feature just north of the entrance historical importance, the inscription stating that it was a gift donated to Chasewood Park by a James Chapman in 1852. Occasional Intermittent throughout the These can involve intrusive scale, bulk or design. In terms of material inappropriate conservation area for details, the use of bricks and bonding often does not match the development including example picture shows original and detracts from the quality of the area. new buildings and Parkside, London Road extensions/alterations Areas of on street London Road, Sudbury Hill This detracts from the street scene, impedes views and increases traffic parking and Mount Park congestion but it might slow speeds. It also creates a very urban character, which is largely at odds with the overall character of the conservation area. Lack of protection for Throughout the The conservation area contains many original features in terms of many original features conservation area windows, ironwork, moulded pediments or brackets to windows and doors and original boundary treatments. These contribute to the special character of the conservation area and their loss would be detrimental to the area. Pressure for Throughout conservation There have been a number of applications in recent years for telecommunications area, but mainly London telecommunication proposals, particularly along the main spinal route, developments Road & Sudbury Hill which threatens the character of the conservation area.

15.2 The following are neutral features within the conservation area. They too offer the potential for enhancement and are addressed within the linked Sudbury Hill Management Strategy.

Neutral Area Location Enhancement Proposal Street furniture such as Intermittent throughout On occasion this is in a poor condition and there is not continuity in signs, bins, salt bins and conservation area their design. guard rails, street lights Neutral/negative Highlighted on map on Some buildings make a neutral or negative contribution to the special buildings page 14 quality of the conservation area 23

SudburyPOLICIES: Hill Public Consultation

This document, and the associated management strategy, were subject to public consultation. Views were sought from local residents, councillors, the Conservation Area Advisory Committee, the Harrow Hill Trust, English Heritage and stakeholder groups, among others. The documents are displayed on the Council’s website. They were amended to reflect the views expressed by respondents to the consultation. The documents are recommended for approval by the Local Development Framework Panel for subsequent adoption as formal planning documents by Cabinet.

020 8736 6180

Other Publications Produced by: The Council produce the following Supplementary Guidance leaflets that are relevant to the Sudbury Harrow Council Hill Conservation Area Community & Environment service Conservation Areas: Residential Planning Guidelines Conservation Team Listed Buildings: Planning Guidelines Civic Centre Listed Buildings Station road London Borough of Harrow Conservation Areas Harrow HA1 2UY Further information regarding the Statutory Background and general Council policies relating to Contact the team on: conservation areas can be found in the Harrow 020 8736 6100, or 6101 Unitary Development Plan and on our website. or www.harrow.gov.uk

24 Published March 2008