Agenda item - BH2024/00942 - Exton House, 4 Second Avenue, Hove - Listed Building Consent

1.    The Planning Manager introduced the application to the committee.

Answers to committee Member questions

2.    Councillor Robinson was informed by the Principal Heritage Planning Officer that the majority of stained glass would remain and there would also be some reinstatement. Alterations on the lower ground floor would reveal the bay window and the original high ceilings. Cornices would also be reinstated to match the existing. None of the fireplaces will be removed. A lift has been installed, and this will remain. The officer considered on balance the changes to be improvements. The removal of partitions will open up rooms, particularly on the ground and second floors. It was noted that there are later additions to the property to the rear.

3.    The Planning Manager noted that all changes will need approval.

4.    Councillor Sheard was informed that the matter of all toilets being ensuite was not a planning issue on a listed building application.

5.    Councillor Theobald was informed that the no fireplaces will be removed, and only one modern fireplace was considered, however, this is to stay.

6.    The Planning Manager noted that condition 5 covers all items to be removed.

Debate

7.    Councillor Theobald noted the property had been divided up and was concerned at the loss of features. As the heritage officer finds the works acceptable, the councillor supported the application.

8.    Councillor Loughran noted that condition 5 covered all items to be removed or refurbished.

9.    Councillor Robinson considered the renovations to be sympathetic so far and supported the application.

10. Councillor Thomson considered the works to be sympathetic and supported the application.

Vote

11. A vote was taken, and the committee agreed unanimously to grant planning permission.

12. RESOLVED: That the Committee has taken into consideration and agrees with the reasons for the recommendation set out in the report and resolves to GRANT listed building consent subject to the Conditions and Informatives in the report.