| 4.3 Guidelines
for alterations and extensions
Note that alterations to listed buildings or
within the Conversation Areas may require specific approval
from South Gloucestershire Council13.
4.3.1 Retain and enhance the condition and
character of existing valued buildings
Safeguard:
• existing structures by regular maintenance using materials
and techniques appropriate to the age of the building. Keep
buildings in good general repair
• the stock of historic buildings. Repair and renovate
rather than replace or demolish
• the character of the Conservation Areas from continuous
erosion from ill-considered small-scale alterations
4.3.2 Encourage development sympathetic to
existing buildings
Understand:
• how the building appeared when first built. Remember
many alterations may have been made by previous generations
• that opinion varies greatly. There is no correct way
to alter or extend a building. Successful works are usually
based on the knowledge gained from a thorough study and investigation
and subsequent understanding of the original building
Ensure:
• alterations and extensions complement the building
and its surroundings and respect the inherent form, style,
materials and detail of the original property
• extensions do not detract from the original building.
Roof lines should step down where possible and facades be
set in such a way as to retain the scale and proportion of
the existing building. Large scale extensions that overwhelm
the character of the existing building should be avoided
• alterations to shopfronts and signs are carefully
considered
• any change of use is supported by the local community
4.3.3 Take care with small alterations which
can easily disfigure existing buildings
Avoid:
• replacement windows, doors or roof finishes that fundamentally
alter the character of the original building, whether old
or new
• ill-considered mortar re-pointing that spoils an existing
facade
• a proliferation of skylights in converted properties
• conservatories designed or constructed from materials
out of keeping with the host building
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