Restoration work to historic Bridgnorth building will go ahead

Restoration work to one of Bridgnorth’s dilapidated historic town-centre buildings has been approved.

HSBC applied to Shropshire Council earlier this year for permission to renovate the grade II listed building, which sits on the corner of High Street.

The building has cut a tired figure on one of the county’s most picturesque high streets, with paint flaking off and cracked render on the facade.

• You can find out more about planning applications and planned roadworks where you live by visiting the dedicated public notice website

In its application HSBC said the work was “aimed at preserving the long-term condition, presentation and functionality of the branch.”

A decision notice from Shropshire Council’s planning department said the work would improve the historic building.

It said: “In this case, the proposed works form part of an ongoing programme of planned repair and maintenance for the external fabric.

“Localised areas of the existing elevation are notably deteriorated, including areas of flaking paint and render skim, cracks, and isolated areas of delaminated render.

“The intention of the works is to safeguard the existing historic fabric and enhance the long-term durability and appearance of the bank building.

“The applicant has provided details with the application and a scope of works, which is considered satisfactory, proposing limited to like-for-like repair and careful reinstatement, with no alteration to the building's architectural form or detailing.

“All works will be undertaken on a like-for-like basis using compatible materials and traditional techniques, ensuring that the character, appearance and historic significance of the building are preserved.

“The proposals are therefore considered to result in minimal harm to the significance of the heritage asset and will have no adverse impact on the wider streetscape or surrounding area.

“It is considered that the proposed work will enhance the significance of the designated heritage asset.”

A design statement submitted with the application earlier this year explained the restoration work planned, saying: “The proposed works form part of an ongoing programme of planned repair and maintenance to safeguard the external fabric and enhance the long-term durability and appearance of the bank building.

“Localised areas of the existing stucco finish have deteriorated and are approaching the end of their serviceable life.

“The scope of works is therefore limited to like-for-like repair and careful reinstatement, with no alteration to the building’s architectural form or detailing.

“All defective or delaminating paint finishes and any loose or friable stucco will be carefully removed by hand using non-mechanical methods to avoid damage to the underlying historic substrate.

“Repairs will be undertaken using a compatible lime-based render system, such as Lime Green – Natural Finish External Lime Render, or similar product to be approved by the Architect.

“The repair material will be selected to match the existing stucco in composition, breathability, texture and profile, ensuring compatibility with the original fabric and maintaining appropriate moisture permeability.”