Sutton Place Hackney E9 6EH

The previous pergola located in the back half of the garden of the house was in significant disrepair - structurally unsound, heavily overgrown with weeds, and in a state of decay, making this part of the garden dark, unsafe and unusable. The condition of the structure and surrounding vegetation also contributed to attracting vermin, eg foxes and rats. To improve the safety, usability, and overall appearance of the garden in keeping with the property, the original pergola was dismantled and replaced with a new pergola of similar height and proportions, and only slightly deeper than the previous structure. The garden measures approx 33.5m in length by 6m in width, and the pergola is situated in the back half of the garden, approx 16.5m from the house. The replacement pergola reflects the original, with the only real difference being the addition of a simple corrugated tin roof. This was added to protect the structure from the elements and ensure its longevity. At present, the pergola is uncovered by planting, so its appearance is more visible than the former, heavily overgrown version. The intention is to establish climbing plants over time, which will soften its visual impact and help it blend into the garden landscape in a way that is sympathetic to the character of the property and surrounding conservation area. Other properties in the area have similar garden structures of comparable size and height. The replacement pergola does not result in any material loss of light to neighbours as its height is unchanged from the previous and it is set within the garden. Mature trees already contribute more significantly to shading than the pergola. The works were carried out in good faith without awareness that listed building consent was required. The intention was, and remains, to preserve and enhance the setting of the heritage property, making the garden safe, functional, and in keeping with surroundings. Photographic evidence is available showing the deteriorated condition of the previous pergola and garden prior to the replacement. While the pergola currently appears more prominent due to the absence of established planting, the design has been chosen with the express intention of supporting climbing plants. As the planting matures, the structure will take on a softer, more organic appearance, replicating the visual integration of the original pergola while offering improved durability and safety. The materials, including the corrugated tin roof, have been selected for longevity and practicality, ensuring the feature remains well maintained rather than deteriorating into a state of disrepair. Given the structure’s location in the back half of a long garden, its similar scale to the previous pergola, and the intention to integrate it with planting, the proposal preserves the setting of the listed building and the wider conservation area, in line with the statutory duty under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990.

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