Plea to save historic Gloucester building and former school from demolition
Summary
There are calls for a historic former school and day centre in Gloucester to be saved from demolition. Developers want to knock down the former Hatherley Road Day Centre and school buildings in Barton to make way for new housing on the site. However, there is strong opposition to the proposal and a recent application on the method of demolition was rejected.
Details
Dozens of residents are against the demolition of the Victorian building along with local councillors. Liberal Democrat councillor Sarah Sawyer (Longlevens), who is responsible for planning at Gloucester City Council , is among those opposed to the plans. She is calling on the developer to reconsider the plans and save the historic building.
“Hatherley Road Day Centre in Barton and Tredworth is under threat,” she said. “A prior approval application was made to Gloucester city council for its demolition. Luckily due to a technicality it was refused.
“Sadly as it is not listed it can be demolished under permitted development and the developer is only applying for approval of the method of demolition. We have a small window to reach out to the developer before a new application is submitted. “It was built between 1899 and 1901 but it is not listed.
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The former day centre is included on Gloucester’s local list of heritage assets, recognising its importance to the city’s history and character. “While local listing does not provide the same legal protection as national listing, it reflects the building’s significance to local people and the contribution it makes to the area’s identity.
“I am pleading to the developer to reconsider his plans and develop the site by incorporating the building. “I welcome the regeneration of this site and we need more homes but this building is cherished by local residents and demolishing it would have a negative effect on the street scene.
“It is over 100 years old and holds so much history.” Labour Councillor Roseanna Marshall, who represents Barton and Tredworth, said she is glad the council has taken the initiative and that the prior approval application has been rejected. “The building is sentimental to many in the area. It would take away the heritage,” she said.
“I hope the owner will take careful consideration on how this building is to be redeveloped.” And Councillor Usman Bhaimia ( LD , Barton and Tredworth) also wants the building to be saved. “Local parents who went there had emotional attachment to the building with their past history,” he said. “It was a significant part of many families’ lives, and there is a positive sentiment attached to the building.
Report source: Gloucestershire Live