SPAB continues to be active in heritage policy at national and local levels. Below are updates on current issues from our Chief Executive Matthew Slocombe.
Clandon Park, Surrey
The SPAB has firmly supported the National Trust's repair and re-use scheme for Clandon Park. This follows the fire of 2015 which caused extensive damage to the building's interior and roof. We have been involved in discussion's about rescue and revival of the house since soon after the fire and are delighted that the Trust's chosen approach aligns with SPAB thinking on building conservation. It includes conservation of all surviving parts. Where damage was light, repair and reinstatement will be pursued. In other areas the Trust will not attempt to replicate, but will use good new design by architects Allies and Morrison to reinstate a useable interior. The architectural impact and proportions of Clandon will remain, but with new perspectives on its underlying construction. This, we believe, is a commendably honest response to the tragedy of the fire that will offer an exciting experience for future visitor. Visitors will also have access to the roof, not previously available, where prospects of the surrounding landscape will be possible. Integral to the National Trust's repair plan is craft training and research.
More from Matthew Slocombe on Clandon Park
Pastoral Measure and church redundancy
General Synod will consider shortly proposals to amend the arrangements that current apply when an historic church faces redundancy and re-use. At present, early, expert advice is obtained from a Statutory Advisory Committee (SAC) linked to the Church Buildings Council. The proposal before Synod intends change these arrangements, reducing the SAC's role at national level and placing more onus on dioceses to seek or provide their own assessment of a church's interest and importance. SPAB feels that the intended change could lessen the care and consideration for historic churches at the point of redundancy, when a critical decision about their future is being made. We have partnered with other organisations to express our concerns to the Church of England and ask for further discussion.
Heathrow and the expansion of airports
The SPAB has protested previously at expansion proposals for Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted and other UK airports. The current Chancellor's much-publicised decision to support expansion at Heathrow and Gatwick is hugely disappointing in terms of potential impact on historic buildings and the wider environment. We expect to scrutinise detailed proposals once available, and to join with others in campaigning if necessary.
Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee: evidence
The CMS Select Committee issued a call for evidence on historic buildings issues in January. We have made a written submission covering a wide range of topics, from the maintenance of buildings owned by local authorities to the VAT on repair paid by private owners of listed buildings, and will offer oral evidence to the committee if this is sought.