Buildings at Risk

In 1998 the launch of English Heritage's Buildings at Risk Register was published. The register identified at least 1,428 of England's most important Grade I and II* listed buildings and structural scheduled monuments as being at risk of damage or loss if urgent steps were not taken to stabilise their condition.
There has been some progress with figures indicating that between1998 and 2007 there was a 17% reduction in the number of buildings at risk. However, since 2007 the figure appears to have remained constant. This has no doubt been due to the economic recession. The important issue is that the condition of these buildings is continuing to decline. For a long time, Oculus, who are based in the Georgian City of Bath, have been aware of two listed buildings that are at risk and located within this World Heritage Site.

Cleveland Baths, Hampton Row, Bath

Dating from 1815, Cleveland Baths are believed to be the oldest surviving public outdoor swimming pools in England. A diminutive Georgian crescent houses the changing rooms and Caretakers Cottage. The Cleveland Pool Trust carried out a feasibility study in 2006 and are currently undertaking a business plan, condition survey and scheme design with English Heritage grant aid.

King Edwards School, Broad Street, Bath

School, 1752. A scheme for use as a hotel was submitted but withdrawn in 2006. Works to repair the roof have been successfully completed. The threat of decay has therefore diminished but the building remains vacant. The owner has initiated discussions regarding reuse and a new application for hotel use has been submitted and is under consideration.

Other important buildings and monuments have not been so fortunate. If you want to let Oculus know of any buildings that you consider would benefit from a mention then please email us. If you want further information on the Buildings at Risk register then visit the English Heritage website.

http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/protecting/