English Heritage welcome inquiry into the application to demolish Greenside

ENGLISH HERITAGE STATEMENT

 In March 2004 English Heritage welcomed the Secretary of State’s decision to hold a public inquiry into the application to demolish Greenside, an important 1937 grade II listed house in Wentworth, Surrey.

Simon Thurley, Chief Executive of English Heritage said:  “We are delighted at the Government’s decision. We have consistently argued that Runnymede Council Members were mistaken to go against their officers and authorise the demolition (subject to ratification by the Secretary of State) and have expressed our concerns at the potential ramifications of the decision.

“We look forward to setting out our position, ensuring a proper balance between the protection of the historic environment and other interests.  We will be explaining why the destruction of this iconic building is a significant loss, not only for the nation, but for the International Modern Movement as a whole."

ENGLISH HERITAGE STATEMENT - 22 April 2005
SUCCESSFUL GREENSIDE PROSECUTION

English Heritage welcomes that the illegal demolition of this rare, modernist Grade II listed building has resulted in one of the highest penalties yet imposed on an individual for a single listed building offence.

In acknowledging the seriousness of the case, the judge, Mr Justice Inman, stated that the sentence “must be seen as a deterrent to others tempted to act in this way”, also making clear that “the law is designed to protect heritage; not just old, fashionable buildings, but modern ones too”.
The court therefore fined Mr Beadle £15,000 to be paid within 28 days, in default of which he faces a 12 month prison sentence. Mr Beadle is additionally required to pay English Heritage costs of £10,000.
Applications for listed building consent to demolish Greenside, a Grade II listed building, and planning permission for re-development of the site were the subject of a public inquiry in November 2004. The criminal proceedings are a separate process.

 ENGLISH HERITAGE STATEMENT - 15 July 2005
SUCCESSFUL GREENSIDE PUBLIC INQUIRY OUTCOME

English Heritage is delighted that the Secretary of State’s decision has endorsed our position on Greenside, and that of the 20th Century Society and others.  While the decision cannot reverse the consequence of this illegal demolition, it will help to discourage others from such wilful acts elsewhere. It has reinforced the authority of the planning system, the Listed Building Act, Government planning guidance and our own expert advice. This is a victory for sensible planning. 
 
The destruction of this listed and rare modernist house was an outrageous act of cultural vandalism. The house was both nationally significant and a local asset.  Had the owner been prepared to consider our advice on alterations and repair, it would have made an attractive, comfortable and valuable home.
 
We are sure that local authorities will take note of this important decision, which is a reminder of their duty to protect listed buildings in their area.