Consultation Feedback:
We are broadly supportive of many aspects of the scheme. Benefits include the revitalisation of an historically significant pub and the positive impact the works will have on the public realm, the re-instatement of public amenities on the ground floor and introduction of a small area of public outside amenity space at the rear of the site.
Despite these benefits, however, we are very concerned about the proposed loss of historic fabric within two areas of the building.
The proposed removal of the floor in the stone building behind no. 50/51 St Giles is unjustifiable and would result in the loss of highly significant fabric. This building (51B), dated to the late 17th /early 18th centuries, is the earliest part of the complex. The removal of its second floor would harm its significance. Our view is that the benefit – which appears to be the creation of a loftier area of communal space – does not outweigh this harm.
The removal of sections of partition on the first and second floors of 50/51 St Giles’ is also a cause of concern. The creation of the large openings depicted in the proposed Second Floor Scholars Collaboration Space and First Floor Scholars Lounge will result in loss of historic fabric. This removal will harm the significance of the designated heritage asset. Again, we do not consider that the proposed benefit outweighs this harm.
We are aware that the team aims to submit the application before the end of year, but we hope that you are able consider our comments before finalising the proposals.