Well, we aren't allowed to put up a little handrail outside ours (see picture) to help John down the steep steps after his broken hip. No. It doesn't belong to the nation. It belongs to us. But it's Listed. Not posh like the queen's, but not ours to change, either. I do see the point. On the other hand, will John ever we able to go out alone again? The Queen (presumably) has people to help her. John has....me.
I suspect the Queen would struggle to purchase the paint in B&Q let alone open the tin and apply it. Ask the building regulator for a temporary exemption. By the time the decision is made hopefully his hip will be better.
ReplyDeleteIt's a thought, Tim...
DeleteI too see the point of not being able to make damaging changes to listed buildings - but a small handrail on the steps shouldn't damage the building or stop people being able to look at it.
ReplyDeleteThe trouble is we have to apply for permission, and whether we get it or not, it's a very expensive process!
DeleteMy house is listed too and, as you, although I can see the point it can be a bit irksome when the regulations seem to ignore the fact that people have to be able to live in the houses too.
ReplyDeleteProvided what you put up can be removed at a later date without having damaged anything 'permament' might they not allow it on that basis?
We would still have to go through the expensive application process. It's a lose-lose situation!
DeleteHow annoying - I hope there is some way round this x
ReplyDeleteMe too, Teresa!
DeleteIf it was me, I'd do two things. 1) Get a letter from the GP describing the medical condition and its consequences, and 2) Go ahead and put up the railing.
ReplyDeleteI've thought of doing that, Tim...
DeleteCan't you get a statement from John's doctor, saying that the handrail is necessary for medical reason, or something like that?
ReplyDeleteLong process, Meike (see replies above)!
DeleteSome rules are meant to be broken...where common sense needs to prevail. Something discreet tht could be removed at a later date perhaps. John is lucky to have....you.
ReplyDeleteCommon sense is a thing of the past, Libby!
DeleteTim, Librarian and Libby have got it right. Just do it and worry about it later. I'm sure I've seen handrails on listed buildings before, especially when open to the public. Now that's an idea!!
ReplyDeleteLovely idea, Maggie, but I'd have to do lot of tidying up first!
DeleteHope you get that handrail, Frances!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Rosemary.
DeleteI'd get a letter from your doctor , informal if neccessary , and if any fool comes round and makes a fuss , just point out that Disabled Access is a right .
ReplyDeleteAh. Rights! I'd forgotten about those! Thank you.
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