PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENT
Register of Buildings and Sites of Architectural, Archaeological and Historical Importance in Jersey Assessment of Isabella Villa, Farley’s Lane, St Helier
Purpose of the Report
The purpose of this report is for the Minister to consider adding Isabella Villa to the Historic Buildings Register, having regard to the States strategic objective ‘to protect the best of the Island’s architectural heritage’ and a key objective of 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 provide reports and recommendations to the Minister for Planning and Environment on the registration of buildings and sites. It incorporates the views of the Ministerial Registration and Listing Advisory Group (MRLAG) - a group established to provide independent, expert advice on matters relating to the protection of buildings and sites of cultural interest.
Isabella Villa was not included in the 1992 Historic Buildings Register and was not considered for registration by the Jersey Building Heritage Sub-Committee during its review of St Helier in 2002. The house came to light during the MRLAG assessment of the nearby First Tower Inn on 14 August 2006 and members requested that Isabella Villa be considered for registration.
The Curator of Historic Buildings carried out an assessment of the house on 26 September ahead of discussions by the MRLAG on 9 October 2006.
Discussion
Isabella Villa was built in the late nineteenth century. The house substantially retains its original external detail – including its door with glazed overlight, a complete set of windows and its frontage wall. The villa makes a positive contribution to the scenic value of the area and to the historical character of First Tower.
Taking these factors into consideration, MRLAG endorsed the recommendation that Isabella Villa satisfies the criteria for registration as a Building of Local Interest.
Recommendation
Isabella Villa should be added to the Historic Buildings Register as a Building of Local Interest.
Reason(s) for Decision
Isabella Villa satisfies the published criteria for registration.
The registration of Isabella Villa 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.’
Action Required
Amend the Historic Buildings Register to include Isabella Villa
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:
Plan showing the location of Isabella Villa
Registration assessment and photographs 2006
10 October 2006