Register for Buildings and Sites of Architectural, Archaeological and Historical Importance in Jersey; Review of Les Mares, La Rue des Mares, St. Martin
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 historic buildings and sites.
The Planning and Environment Department requested that the Jersey Heritage Trust assess the architectural, historical and other interests of Les Mares ahead of discussions with the Ministerial Registration and Listing Advisory Group.
Author of report: Roger Hills BA(Hons) MA DipBldgCons (RICS) IHBC Curator of Historic Buildings
Date of report: 10 October 2007
File ref: MN0114
Relevant interests of the site (also see assessment form)
Les Mares was first registered in 1992 and is currently on the Historic Buildings Register as a BLI.
Les Mares appears to date to the early 19th century. The house is 5-bay, 2-storey, constructed of granite with dressed quoins and openings, with a marriage stone 18PN YYIN21. There are extensive and varied 20th century extensions to the side and rear of the original house and the roof has been reconfigured to meet these extensions - including the removal of the east chimney stack. No original joinery survives on the exterior.
To the rear of the house is a granite wellhead which is registered separately as a BLI (MN0223)
Advice received (MRLAG or others)
MRLAG discussed the building at its meeting on 8 October. Members agreed that the extent of modern extensions and alterations including the reconfiguration of the roof and the loss of original external joinery have significantly compromised the character and interest of the building and this should be reflected in the level of protection. However, the majority of members were concerned that protection should still be afforded to the early 19th century façade of the house which retains its well dressed granite-work and marriage stone.
JHT recommendation
Les Mares should be removed from the Register.
Justification relating to criteria
Given the extent of additions and alterations to Les Mares, the survival of the masonry façade of the house does not satisfy the current criteria for registration as a BLI that requires that a registered building retains its historic form and detail.
Attachments
Appeal letter
Assessment form and photographs, 2007
Plan