I was in a garrison town today which sounds a bit like the start of a Thomas Hardy novel. I was inspecting a Grade II Listed Building that probably dates back to 17 something or other, in the middle of this town. The Local Authority, in their wisdom, had apparently given consent to replace the original timber framed vertical sliding sash windows with plastic. The Conservation Officers I know would have apoplexy even if you just hinted at the thought of replacing an unseen timber window in a Grade II Listed Building. What has happened here, I do not know but I do know that I shall insist my Client's solicitor ensures in writing that this is the case, because retrospective action could otherwise be taken against my Client. It may well be that if the Local Authority wanted to revert the decision, then they may have to pay compensation, but that is another matter. The roof was covered with concrete plain tiles which, of course is contrary to good conservation, but it had sagged very badly due to its construction rather than the weight of tiles. The construction of the roof was extremely badly distorted, the worst I have ever seen, and it may be necessary to rebuild this section of the roof. My Client intends to restore the house to its original glory, so he had better give his building company marching orders; there's a lot to do…   more »