Casebook: In depth - Partial demolition decision paves way for historic landmark reuse

Planning, 18 July 2008

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The inspector advised that proposed works for the conversion of the listed building went well beyond the minimal intervention advocated in Circular 61/1996. However, he recognised that the building's inherent problems demanded a radical approach to its conversion.

The poor structural condition of much of the building, its rigid cellular layout of offices and the way in which the interior had been badly compromised by later alterations led him to the conclusion that its internal reconstruction to form residential apartments around a larger courtyard would not destroy any notable architectural or historic features.

The inspector found that the planned layout and interconnectivity that had existed between the trading floor and galleries of the exchange hall and the ranks of offices had long gone. In his view, the building's significant interest was limited to the ground-floor public rooms and its main facades.

He reasoned that the proposed demolition and reconstruction had to be weighed against the significant benefits of the conversion. The exchange hall, ante-rooms, entrance and foyer would be restored in a way that would recapture the building's original grandeur and allow it to be reopened for public use, he concluded.

He held that cleaning, repair and restoration of three elevations and the creation of a public piazza would improve the building's setting and the vitality of the surrounding conservation area. He concluded that both the building and the conservation area would remain alive and prosperous and the historic structure would be preserved as an important resource for future generations.

DCS Number 100-055-922

Inspector Clive Cochrane; Inquiry.

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