PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENT
Register of Buildings and Sites of Architectural, Archaeological and Historical Importance in Jersey Assessment of Public Toilets, Victoria Park, St Helier
Purpose of the Report
The purpose of this report is for the Minister to consider adding Victoria Park Public Toilets 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.
The Planning and Environment Department sought advice from the Jersey Heritage Trust in August 2006 as to whether the public toilets in Victoria Park merit inclusion on the Historic Buildings Register.
The Curator of Historic Buildings carried out an assessment of the public toilets on 6 September ahead of discussions with the Ministerial Registration and Listing Advisory Group.
Discussion
MRLAG was advised that the public toilets are purpose-built and date from circa 1920s. Members agreed that the building is of good quality both in design and use of materials with contrasting rock-faced granite and an unusual gambrel roof. The group considered the building to be a good example of civic pride in the provision of public facilities, and that its decorative nature contributes to the scenic value of the area.
Taking these factors into consideration, members concurred with the JHT recommendation that Victoria Park Public Toilets satisfy the criteria for registration as a Building of Local Interest. The group further recommended that the BLI should exclude the later (circa 1950s) flat roof extension to the original building.
Recommendation
Victoria Park Public Toilets should be added to the Historic Buildings Register as Buildings of Local Interest.
Reason(s) for Decision
Victoria Park Public Toilets satisfy the published criteria for registration.
The registration of Victoria Park Public Toilets 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 Victoria Park Public Toilets
Issue a notification letter to the Parish of St Helier
Notify Development Control - Urban Section of the decision
Written by: | Roger Hills Curator of Historic Buildings - Jersey Heritage Trust |
| |
Approved by: | Fiona Smith Historic Buildings Officer |
| |
Endorsed by: | Kevin Pilley Assistant Director |
Attachments:
Plans showing the location of Victoria Park Public Toilets
Registration assessment and photographs 2006
25 September 2006