SNN109417 - The Cottage, Charlton, Northamptonshire: Historic Environment Desk-Based Assessment

The JESSOP Consultancy (TJC) has undertaken an historic environment desk-based assessment of the buildings and land comprising The Cottage, Main Street, Charlton. The report has been prepared to act as supporting information for a Listed Building Application to adapt aspects of the existing Grade II listed building. The site is located on the east side of Main Street, the principal north-south road within the village of Charlton; a village which has its origin in the Medieval period, although there is extensive evidence for settlement in the area from the Prehistoric and Roman periods. Prior to the 17th century there is little evidence for settlement on the study Site, and this part of the village may have been relatively underdeveloped. In the 17th to 18th centuries, two cottages were built fronting Main Street, one of which was used as a farmhouse. Following the purchase of the land by Mr F.E. Smith K.C. at the start of the 20th century, the cottages were reconfigured as a hunting-box, including the construction of a new baroque inspired central block. These alterations also adapted the rear yards, fields and orchard into a series of garden compartments, brick-built stables and tennis courts. The proposed alterations will involve the re-ordering of circulation routes within the building, the demolition of a 1920s extension at the south end of the house and conversion of an outbuilding to a new plant room. It has been concluded that the scheme presents a considered design and that these works will not have a negative effect upon the Charlton Conservation Area, but will, however, seek to maintain the existing settlement form and appearance.