PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENT
Register of Buildings and Sites of Architectural, Archaeological and Historical Importance in Jersey
Assessment of La Vielle Maison, La Rue du Vieux Moulin, Trinity
Purpose of the Report
The purpose of this report is for the Minister to consider adding La Vielle Maison to the Historic Buildings Register, with regards to a key objective in the Island Plan 2002 to protect and promote Jersey’s built, cultural and archaeological heritage.
Background
This report has been prepared by the Jersey Heritage Trust as part of its responsibility under a Service Level Agreement to make assessments and to provide reports and recommendations to the Minister for Planning and Environment on the registration of buildings and sites. It incorporates the views of the Jersey Heritage Advisory Panel (JHAP) - a group established to provide independent, expert advice on matters relating to the protection of buildings and sites of cultural interest.
La Vielle Maison was not included in the 1992 Historic Buildings Register and was not added to the Register by the Jersey Building Heritage Sub-Committee during its review of registered buildings in Trinity in 2002.
In January 2006, following an enquiry from a local architectural practise the Historic Buildings Officer requested that JHT assess the architectural and historic interests of La Vielle Maison.
Discussion
La Vielle Maison embodies the substantive remains of two seventeenth century cottages.
An archaeological appraisal of the site was carried out by Dr Warwick Rodwell in 2005. An evaluation of the significance of the site was carried out by the Curator of Historic Buildings and the Historic Buildings Officer, who concluded that, based on the physical evidence and Dr Rodwell’s archaeological assessment, the building retains significant architectural, historical and archaeological merit, and as such satisfies the criteria for designation as a Site of Special Interest. These conclusions were presented for discussion by JHAP at its meeting on 13 February 2006.
Members noted that the building is in a ruined state but agreed that architectural and historical integrity of the building survives with notable original features including a decorated gable-kneeler dated 1679, two integral fireplaces with quadrant-shaped, moulded corbels and a stone-built fontaine. It was agreed that the cottage makes a significant and positive contribution to the scenic value of the area and to the architectural and historical character and appearance of Jersey.
Taking into account the rare survival of this type of seventeenth century building in Jersey, the Panel agreed that La Vielle Maison should be added to the Register as a proposed Site of Special Interest.
Recommendation
La Vielle Maison should be added to the Historic Buildings Register as a proposed Site of Special Interest.
Reason(s) for Decision
La Vielle Maison satisfies the published criteria for registration as a pSSI.
The registration of La Vielle Maison is in accordance with Interim Policy HB1 which states ‘Historic buildings which contribute positively to the distinctive character or appearance of Jersey’s built-up areas or countryside, particularly where they are of ‘group value’, will be identified and included in the Register of Buildings and Sites of Architectural, Archaeological and Historical Importance in Jersey.’
The grade of pSSI is in accordance with Interim Policy HB2 which states ‘Designation of buildings of architectural or historical importance as Sites of Special Interest will normally be limited to those whose authentic fabric, plan form, interior features or historical associations of the interior contribute to their special archaeological, architectural, artistic, cultural, historical, or traditional interest.’
Action Required
Amend the Historic Buildings Register to include La Vielle Maison
Issue a notification letter to the owner
Notify Development Control - Urban Section of the decision
Written by: | Roger Hills Curator of Historic Buildings - Jersey Heritage Trust |
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Approved by: | Fiona Smith Historic Buildings Officer |
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Endorsed by: | Kevin Pilley Assistant Director |
Attachments:
Location plan
An Archaeological Appraisal by Dr Warwick Rodwell
Photographs
3/04/02/01/MR
14 February 2006