Conservation Area (CA)
Valley Gardens CA
Local Listing Reference
LLHA0141
Description
Former Capital & Counties Bank, by Clayton & Black. Corner entrance, turret and gables optimise its prominent corner location at the entrance to the Pavilion Gardens via Pavilion Buildings. Otherwise a relatively plain polished granite and Bath stone façade. The entrance to Pavilion Buildings is flanked to the other side by the listed Natwest Bank, such that the pair are viewed in association.
A. Architectural, design and artistic interest
ii A good example of its style and period iv A good example of work by local architects, Clayton & Black. The firm specialised in commercial buildings such as this.
C. Townscape interest
i Makes a positive contribution to the townscape, and skyline, forming an interesting gateway to the Pavilion Buildings
iii Forms a visual focal point in the area around Castle Square iv Flanks the entrance to the Pavilion Gardens in association with the listed Natwest building. The Indian Gateway and Pavilion itself are viewed beyond.
E. Rarity and representativeness
i The concentration of bank buildings along North Street is a particular feature of the area; identified by Antram & Morrice as giving North Street ‘its architectural style’ and contrasting with other parts of the city centre. The first bank in Brighton was opened at 103 North Street in 1787 and the street continues to maintain its role as the financial centre for the city. The surviving bank buildings are representative of the development of commercial banking in the city.
F. Intactness
i The exterior is fairly intact ii It is still in use as a bank
Date of inclusion
2015
