Asset type
Historic Building - Street furniture (gate piers)
Local Listing Reference
LLHA0013
Conservation Area (CA)
Regency Square CA
Description
Pair of historic gate piers; no longer in use or attached to associated property. Cast iron, they were likely installed in conjunction with the construction of 8 and 9 Cavendish Place in c.1829 by A.H. Wilds, or soon after. The buildings were originally constructed as two semi-detached houses, known as Cavendish Mansions. The c.1870 Ordnance Survey map shows the Mansions and indicates a gate to the front and/or side of each property. Unusually, the alignment of the gates/railings does not match. The buildings were converted into an hotel in the early 20th century, at which point Ordnance Survey maps indicate the gates/railings were removed. Cast iron and square in section, they display a zig-zag pattern of foliate filigree to the each side, with raised and fielded square panel above. Semi-circular heads with sinuous sunburst style design. That to the west survives intact, that to the east has been damaged. Source: Carder 1990.
A, Architectural, design and artistic interest
ii. A highly unusual design and good example of early 19th century gate piers v Highly decorative and of particular aesthetic interest.
C. Townscape interest
i. A novel survival which contributes to the streetscene.
iv. Clear association with 8 and 9 Cavendish Place, which are listed.
E. Rarity and representativeness
i. Such ornate gate piers are a rare survival, which provide evidence for the arrangement of gates/railings in that location.
F. Intactness
i. One of the piers survives intact. The other has been damaged
Date of inclusion
2015
