Theatre Royal, Sawclose, Bath, Bath and North-East Somerset, BA1 1ET
Internal and external alterations for a new community venue within the existing theatre building.
Note that consideration of the scheme is generally limited to the retrofit elements.
It is noted that the scheme has been subject to pre-application advice from the Local Planning Authority (LPA).
The subject building (the theatre) is located within the World Heritage Site and the Bath-City wide conservation area. The theatre and associated buildings are included on the National Heritage List for England, grades include II and II*. See list entries 1394864, 1394863 and 1394865. Scheduled areas are located in the immediate vicinity of the proposal site (1004678) as are numerous listed buildings.
The Design and Access Statement (D&A) includes “External wall to be internally insulated and carefully detailed to avoid thermal bridging” (para. 7.15, p.78); however, the extent, location, specific detailed approach, justification and comment on the impact on the significance of the building(s) is not apparent via the submission. There are of course risks associated with interventions in historic buildings; however, those that may impact on the ‘function’ of natural materials can have un-intended consequences. If this element does form part of the subject scheme, then those points as above need to made evident in order to inform a proper consideration. Note that Historic England produce relevant advice via Energy Efficiency and Historic Buildings – Insulating Solid Walls (April 2016).
It appears that some of the existing fenestration to the south elevation dates from the twentieth century. The submission refers to the use of triple glazing in proposed windows to this elevation; however, detailed designs are absent and there are potential concerns with the reflective qualities of this type of glazing.
Though it is acknowledged that some of the doors and windows of the south elevation are later, there is concern that the elements of the design of the new glazing is rather stark and fails to respond to the historic glazing patterns of the floors above.
The proposed Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery system (MVHR) appears to be broadly acceptable in principle.
Notwithstanding the above, BPT welcomes sensitive retrofit works that are appropriate to the special qualities of the historic environment.