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THE  FARNHAM SOCIETY AMENITY AWARDS

The presentation of The Farnham Society Amenity Awards provides us with an opportunity to remind ourselves and to demonstrate publicly that, although to some we might appear to be negative in our consideration of the large number of planning proposals which we have to examine each year, the Society always endeavours to be constructive in its representations.

The Society carefully considers all of the developments which have been completed during the previous two years.

In considering developments in the period under review, we select those (both large and less so) which, in our opinion, have contributed to improving the amenity of our historic Town; and these projects can cover a very wide range.

At all times, the Society looks for and commends excellence.

The Society welcomes all suggestions from the membership and the public for  developments worthy of consideration, for the awards for works completed in the two years to 31st December 2007.

Awards for works completed in the two years to 31st December 2003

THE SOCIETY'S AMENITY AWARD PLAQUE:

Restoration of the updraft kiln at Wrecclesham Pottery by the Farnham (Building Preservation) Trust Ltd

The Pottery was purchased by the Trust in 1998 when the last surviving kiln, an important example of wood-fired updraft kiln, was threatened with demolition. The distinctive Wrecclesham extruded bricks and terracotta capping pieces were restored; and an open protective canopy roof was provided together with a raised floor, accessible from the workshop, enabling the kiln to be inspected from an upper level.

This enclosed space has the potential as an interpretation area for the public and school pupils to learn more about the history of the Pottery.

The Society recognises the dedication of the Trust in restoring this important aspect of Farnham's history and the skills involved in this work. The brickwork was repaired by Tim Shepherd and the terracotta by Mick Pinner; the Architect was Nina Peskett and the builder was Colynro Ltd. Finance towards the cost of the scheme was provided by Waverley Borough Council, Farnham Town Council, SITA, The Pilgrim Trust, Surrey Historic Buildings Trust and the Runfold Farnham I Environment Trust.

CERTIFICATE OF HIGH COMMENDATION:

Farnham Hospital and Health Care Centre by Guildford and Waverley NHS Trust

Like all new hospitals this is contemporary in style, appropriate for a modern technological establishment; it has a crisp geometry, with pale buff brickwork and contrasting white features. The fact that it is of only two storeys makes it a friendly addition to the surrounding residential area.

The top-lit entrance atrium is impressive and, as architecture should, lifts the spirits of visitors. It acts as a communal core with a pharmacy, snack bar and informal seating, while the same user-friendly impression applies to the areas which are all easily accessed from this central point.

Not apparent from an external viewing are two landscaped courtyards which give a pleasant prospect from the wards but, more importantly, are designed to function as physiotherapy areas.

It is considered that the Hospital and Health Care Centre is of a design worthy of recognition and a welcome addition to the amenities of Farnham.

CERTIFICATE OF COMMENDATION:

Simmonds Court by Surrey Community Development Trust Ltd

This building, which provides small dwelling units for thirteen otherwise homeless persons, is situated in Victoria Road at the rear the Old Court House.

The design is low-key in tone, with a simple window pattern and the scale is broken down by the two separate wings in brickwork with a contrasting glazed circulation block linking them. In deference to the adjoining terrace of two-storey cottages, the height is reduced at this point and the scheme successfully fills the area between these and Gostrey House. Hardly noticeable from the road is a passage leading to a small courtyard at the rear, a feature very much in the Farnham tradition.

This scheme successfully contributes to the enclosure of the openness of the Central Car Park and, by its restrained character, respects its urban context.

CERTIFICATE OF COMMENDATION:

Jubilee Bus Shelter by the Villagers of Rowledge

This project was to commemorate the Queen's Golden Jubilee.

Apart from its function as a bus shelter J together with a garden it forms a focal point at the centre of the Village and the traditional design in timber and tiled roof has a character fitting to this location.

Additionally, this scheme is worthy of recognition because it resulted from a communal effort by the whole Village in raising the necessary finance and involved a volunteer building team. Jewsons donated the roof timbers and Peak Housing the brass plaques -and there were even surplus moneys which were given to the Village Hall.

This is considered a splendid example of grass-roots enterprise.

CERTIFICATE OF COMMENDATION:

Mosaic Court by the Farnham Public Art Trust

The existing courtyard forming rear access to Boots the Chemists from the Central Car park has been enlivened by a mosaic (by Sally Smith) depicting aspects of Farnham and a specially crafted timber seat (by Will Glanfield) around the tree.

These were donated by the Farnham Public Art Trust to commemorate the Queen's Golden Jubilee.

CHAIRMAN'S LETTER OF CONGRATULATION:

Wrecclesham Village Sign, The Street, Wreccclesham by Waverley Borough Council

Arising out of an appraisal of the Wrecclesham Conservation Area led by Waverley Borough Council and assisted by inter alia, Farnham Town Council, Wrecclesham Village Society, Farnham Museum and the Society, the sign represents various aspects of the Village life. It is praiseworthy in establishing the identity of the Village and reinforces the communal spirit.

It is a growing practice to establish such signs and is to be encouraged.

CHAIRMAN'S LETTER OF CONGRATULATION:

Ironstone setts, Potters Gate by Surrey County Council

This is a relatively small but nonetheless important exercise by Surrey County Council to reinstate the original ironstone setts, which are a typical feature very much in the tradition of Farnham. Following the relaying some years ago of the ironstone setts in Lower Church Lane, it is an example which should be part of an ongoing programme in the Town centre to renew, as necessary or to replace where lost, the varied historical floor patterns.