Shops replaces ‘damaging’ windows in Arundel

Former owners of Secrets & Friends, at 12 High Street, had replaced the original heritage windows of the property in June, 2012, with double-glazed units – much to the concern of townsfolk, who complained to Arun District Council, claiming the new windows had spoiled the character of the building.

Arun officers inspected the site and had originally tried to work with the owners on a compromise.

However, one could not be reached and a listed building enforcement notice was served on June 28, 2012, ordering that the unauthorised and inappropriate windows be replaced with single-glazed softwood sliding sash windows.

An appeal by Mellorwood Ltd, of Henfield, on behalf of Sunrise Investments, was lodged on August 23 but the Planning Inspectorate’s decision, which was announced on November 27, concluded the windows adversely affected the listed building’s character and special architectural interest of the property.

The inspector felt the design of the windows was so inappropriate that they had damaged, rather than enhanced, the heritage asset.

Following a change of ownership, earlier this year, the listed building enforcement notice has been complied with, three months before the suggested deadline of September 28.

Councillor Ricky Bower, Arun cabinet member with responsibility for planning, said he was pleased by the move to replace the unfavourable windows.

Cllr Bower said: “I am very pleased that the new owners have undertaken the required works in good time and the appearance and character of the building has been restored.

“The enforcement system has worked effectively and I hope owners of listed buildings in the district will ensure they have the appropriate consent before undertaking alterations.”

It is a criminal offence to make unauthorised alterations to a listed building and to fail to comply with an enforcement notice.

Cllr Bower added: “Protection of listed buildings is very important to the character of the district. Where inappropriate changes are made we will take appropriate action to ensure that the harm caused is removed.”