L4(5)_FINAL Harm v Benefits Exercise

In this exercise we'll revisit a past example case this time focusing in on the justification of harm. Read through the scenario and this time decide in which quadrant of the harm versus benefit the case sits.

Balancing Impact and Benefits Exercise

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Statement of Heritage Significance: Former St. Mary’s Primary School Building Name: Former St. Mary’s Primary School Listing Status: Grade II Location: High Street, Littleton Date of Construction: 1872 Architect: John Smithson Current Use: Private day care nursery Historic Interest: The former St. Mary’s Primary School, built in 1872, is a notable example of Victorian educational architecture. Designed by the renowned local architect John Smithson, the building served as the primary educational institution for the town of Littleton for over 130 years. The school played a pivotal role in the community, reflecting the 19th-century expansion of public education and the associated architectural style. Its construction marked a significant development in the town's history, reflecting both the educational reforms of the period and the growth of the local population. Architectural Interest: The building is an excellent example of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture, characterized by its use of red brick with stone dressings, steeply pitched slate roofs, and prominent gables. The front elevation is particularly distinguished by its symmetrical design, featuring large arched windows with original stone mullions and transoms, a central bell tower, and decorative bargeboards. The interior retains many original features, including exposed timber beams, fireplaces in the former classrooms, and original wood paneling in the main hall. These elements contribute to the building’s architectural integrity and its designation as a Grade II listed structure.

Former St Mary's Primary School - Solar Panel Application

Aesthetic Interest: The former school is a prominent landmark within the village, its striking Gothic architecture contrasting with the surrounding more modest residential buildings. The building’s design is both functional and ornamental, showcasing the Victorian era’s attention to detail in public architecture. The school’s aesthetic value is enhanced by its setting, with the open green space of the former playground providing a pleasing background to the historic structure. The relationship between the building and its surrounding landscape is a key aspect of its aesthetic significance. Proposed Development:The owners of the former St. Mary’s Primary School have submitted a planning application to install solar panels on the south-facing roof. The panels would cover approximately 60% of the roof area and would be mounted on a frame that would sit 20 cm above the existing slate tiles. The panels are non-reflective and black in color to minimize visual impact. Justification for Solar Panel Installation: The proposed installation of solar panels is driven by the pressing need for sustainable energy solutions to reduce the building’s carbon footprint. As a large, historic building, the former school is particularly challenging to heat and power efficiently, and good heating is required for the operation of the nursery. The high ceilings and original single-glazed windows, while contributing to the building’s character, result in significant energy loss.Given the current climate crisis and the urgent need to transition to renewable energy sources, the owners are committed to making the building as energy-efficient as possible while preserving its historical features. The solar panels are intended to generate a significant portion of the building’s electricity needs, thus reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering overall energy costs. Moreover, the installation aligns with national and local government objectives to promote renewable energy and reduce carbon emissions. In the context of an ever-increasing focus on environmental responsibility, the owners believe that the benefits of installing solar panels—both in terms of environmental impact and long-term sustainability—outweigh the potential visual impact on the building’s heritage significance.

Former St Mary's Primary School - Solar Panel Application

#1

Let's review the scenario: Justification: The justification for the solar panels is strong, given the building’s large size and energy inefficiency. The move towards renewable energy aligns with broader environmental goals, and the benefits of reduced carbon emissions and energy costs are significant. It would be useful to see some minimal information about expected improvements in energy efficiency and any other measures the owners are considering (taking the whole building approach). Conclusion: The justification is strong but may not fully outweigh the harm, particularly if the panels are highly visible or if there is a risk of damage to the original roof. A compromise might be to reduce the number of panels or to explore alternative locations on the property for solar installation.

Former St Mary's Primary School - Solar Panel Application

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