Witley Court Conservation Management Plan

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CONSERVATION PLAN
Part 1: Significance
2. Archaeological research and project management costs
The North Park & North Parterre restoration project (September 1996)
After discussions with HLFit was agreed that a management plan and revised
business plan be submitted toHLF during September 1996. The proposals
included: the repair of the North Park landscape; the construction of visitor
facilities at Pool House; the construction of a car park and access road (obviating
the need tousetheprincipal carriage drive); and the repair of theParterres. A
grant ofL830k was awarded for the repair ofthe North Park and North Parterre
(HLF27/11/96) toward a total project cost ofL1.47m, inclusive of visitor
facilities. TheHLF agreed that the project should be undertaken in twophases,
commencing with the North Park and provision ofvisitor facilities, followed by
restoration of the parterres.
Work commenced on North Park and the North Parterre in January 1998 and was
completed in May 1999. This included:
Visitorreceptionkiosk&carpark in North
Parterre in 1997
New visitor reception & car park in North
Park - June 1999
North Park: construction
of the new site access road,
car park and visitor
facilities; tree surgery, scrub
clearance and planting to
the Wilderness woodlands
and ornamental walks; path
laying, fencing, seating &
footbridge construction.
North Parterre: the
removal of existing car
park and visitor facilities
and the restoration of the
North Parterre;
construction of the North
Parterre balustrade.
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F/aw across Front Pool towards the house in
1997
ENGLISH HERITAGE
Same view after clearance & restoration in
June 1999
3.1.6 The House & Church: Outline Constructional History
The House
Although a ruin, Witley Court is important. It is precisely due to its ruined state
that it has been possible to investigate the complex development of this
substantial country house. Five major constructional phases are clearly visible:
Medieval: represented by an undercroft, probably dating to the early 14th
century. Now hidden in the cellars beneath the hall, the undercroft probably lay
underneath a Solar or bedroom block situated at one end of a central hall. It was
approached by a spiral stair (now blocked) fromthe Solar above. The shape of
this 14thcenturybuilding is unknown thoughfurther evidence may be seen
between the church and the cellars beneath the west range of the mansion where a
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man-made, V-shaped ditchcut into the sandstone canbe distinguished andmay
represent a section of the medieval moated manor.
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Early to mid 17th century - a large brick-built half-
H shaped pile: constructedc. 1610-1620, by the
Russell family. The service rooms (1) lay in the east
wing with a separate stableblock beyond(the area
marked '2' opposite shows the possible site). Alate
17th century painting of Witley Court from the south
(opposite right) is
the only known
image of the
building purchased
by Thomas Foley
in 1655.
Early to mid 18th century - the Palladian mansion:
the house was modernised in the Palladian style
fashionable at the time. New pavilions were built to
the north of the house (1 & 2) attached to the ends of
the long north wings by curving screen walls. The
stables were housed in one of these pavilions - a
common feature of such a design. It replaced the
separate stable block to the east which was then
demolished. In the late 18th century a new service
complex comprising kitchens, laundry and servants'
accommodation were built (3). The full constructional
sequence has still to be established.
Early 19th century - the Nash alterations: two fine
porticoes were built onto the north (1) and south (2)
elevations of the house (designed by John Nash)
between 1810 and 1817. Other major works during
this phase included the demolition of the two
Palladian pavilions (3 & 4) and the creation of a new
service and stable complex to the west of the house
(5). Further alterations continued - the brickworkof
the house was stuccoed and the roof-lines altered.
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Mid 19th century - major modernisation by
Samuel Daukes: commissioned by the young
William Humble Ward, 1st Earl of Dudley, the
architect Samuel Daukes (late 1850s-early 1860s)
encased the whole of the main house in Bath stone
and radically remodelled the interiors. He added a
curved wing (1) which linked the house with a
Pavilion (2) which acted as an antechamber to a new
conservatory (3). In addition the existing service areas
(4) including the stable block, were remodelled. The
result was an Italianate style akin to Thomas Cubitt's
Osborne House, which contrasted with the earlier and
rather subtler style achieved by Nash.
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From the late 19th century onwards there are no major constructional phases at
Witley Court and it continued in existence as the main family home of the
Dudley's until its acquisition by Herbert Smith in 1920. Thereafter, as he
retreated from living in parts of the house and particularly after the fire of 1937,
the building history is one of decline and eventual ruin with mid 20th century
activity relating to the consolidation of the ruined structure of the building.
TheBallroom looking south (Pardoe Collection)
St Michael and All Angels Church & Churchyard
NorthPortico showing marbleflooring &
rooflights (Pardoe Collection)
ENGLISH HERITAGE
The parish church of St Michael and All Angels stands to the west of the ruins of
the house. Although it is maintained by the parishioners and is not in the care of
English Heritage, it is part of the architectural complex of Witley Court and their
history is intertwined. It is best known for the startling grandeur of its interior, in
contrast to the ruins standing alongside. Extending an invitation to parishioner
and visitor Pevsner wrote : 'Enter andyou are transportedinto a different
climate. Here is the most Italian ecclesiastic space in the whole ofEngland.'
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1 DrawingRoom
2 Dining Room
3 "
4 Green Salon
5 Ante-Room
6 Library
7 Saloon (Smoke Room)
7 atttOfMangRoom
10 Servants'Staircase 19 Bedroom
11 Red Room 20 (top of butchery)
12 Maid's Room 21 Bachelor Wing
13 Top of Head Steward's Room 22 Cupola in glass kitchen roof
14 Top of Servants'HaH
15 Office
16 Principal Staircase
8 Long (Sculpture) Gallery 17 Ante4.ooby (Cloaks)
9 Red Sitting Room 18 Sitting Room
Floor plans ofthe house as it was before 1937
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Baroque interiorof
the church
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The brick-built church, consecrated in 1735, is attributed to James Gibbs and was
built by Thomas 2nd BaronFoley of Kidderminster to replace its medieval
predecessor. The church is rectangular withshallow transepts or wings. The
entrance is surmounted with a square tower supporting an open-arcaded
octagonal cupola. The porchhas a pediment and is supported by plain columns.
In 1860 it was refaced in Bath stone by Samuel Daukes to complement his work
to the house.
The fine decorative fittings were executed by some of the most important artisans
of the period. The twelve painted windows were from the chapel at Cannons, the
palace of the Duke of Chandos, demolished in 1747. Lord Foley bought these
important decorative fittings at auction and re-erected them at Witley.
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3.1.7 The Gardens: Outline Constructional History
Little is known of the early gardens at Witley Court. The main features that
visitors see in the grounds of the Court todayare the remains of the gardens laid
out in the 1850's. This dramatic changeto the landscape was again
commissionedby the 1st Earl who employedWilliamAndrews Nesfield (1793-
1881) one of the most influential and eminent garden designers of the day, to
create an extensive Italianate garden. It was designed not only to reflect the
grandeur of the house, but also the wealth of one of the richest men in Europe.
The gardens fall into the following distinct areas each related to a facade of the
house and separated from the parkland by a deep ha-ha and formal balustraded
stone retaining wall.
3.1.7.1 North Parterre or Forecourt
A formal approach to the main entrance of the Court
comprising a broad, sweeping gravelled forecourt for
carriages, flanked by formal planting beds. Used for
visitor car parking since 1984 this was restored by
English Heritage between April 1998 and May 1999.
The North Parterre & car park in 1997
NorthParterre spring 1999, restoredby EH
East Parterre showing
the box scrollwork main
bed &Flora fountain
cl91S (Bewdley
Museum)
ENGLISH HERITAGE
3.1.7.2 East Parterre
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Northfrontage &Parterre cl920 (National Monuments Record)
An intimate and highly
detailed formal area
lying directly to the east
of the Court - the centre
I piece consisted of a
large sculptural fountain
comprising the figure of
jpjf Flora, the Roman
goddess of spring, on a
pedestal surroundedby
four Tritons blowing
conch shells,
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Florafountain
South Parterre from house
cl920 (Nat Monuments
Record)
Perseus & Andromeda
fountain
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interspersed withgrotesque masks. Thefountain was also designed by Nesfield
andprobably carved by a James Forsyth, a Scot who at that timehad a workshop
in Worcester. It is set in a circular basin some 25m in diameter.
The parterre beds consisted of intricate geometrical designs inbox, all contained
with stone curbs. The areas between the box work scrolls were filled with
coloured gravels toprovide contrast and colour. The only plants to survive from
the original parterre planting scheme areremnants of boxhedging which has now
grown to a large size. Excavation has revealed some of the materials known to
have been used by Nesfield - red brick, blue Westmorlandslate, cream
Adamantineclinker, Derbyshire White Spar, Derbyshire YellowSpar and black
coal dust.
Excavationof the eastern half of the East parterre exposed details of the design,
confirming that Nesfield's original scrollwork had consisted of a fan-shaped array
of segments radiating from a central point. This persisted until the parterre was
abandoned.
3.1.7.3 South Parterre
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At the centre of the South Parterre stands a monumental fountain depicting the
mythological tale of Perseus and Andromeda. Architectural features were
important components of Nesfield's design, the great main fountain, steps,
terrace retaining walls, the pavilions, the perimeter balustrade, kerbs to the
parterre compartments, statuary and ornamental urns, formed an intricate
assemblage alongside a complex planting scheme. The views of this great
parterre contrasted with the wider outer spaces of the surrounding parkland, and
again a contrast with the distant wooded, wilder landscape beyond.
Thefountain was designed by Nesfield in 1853 and was carved by James
Forsyth. Surrounded by shells and dolphins, the centrepiece, which weighs some
20 tons, is saidto be the largest block of sculpture in Europe. Themain jet on the
Perseus &Andromeda fountain rose some 120feet and was surrounded by 'a
high circle of arched cascades.' It is set in an elliptical basin some 55mlong by
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CONSERVATION PLAN Part 1: Significance
36mwide and had two additional side fountains depicting amoretti on dolphins,
known as the Nereids. The Nereids have been removed from the site and are
now in private ownership
Sincebeing takeninto guardianship in 1972 all the groundswithin the line of the
balustrade havebeenprevented from reverting to scrub by a regular mowing
regime witha more frequent mowing regime usedto define the former paths.
The stone edgings to most of the formal beds are still in place, though buriedto
prevent theft and to simplify grass cutting. Other sections havebeen salvaged and
are heldin store. All loose stone on site or in store has been compiled in a
document - A Record ofLoose Architectural Stone'.
3.1.7.4 The balustrade & ha-ha
Surrounding the entire 11acres of
Nesfield's gardens is a formal ha-ha.
The ha-ha wall is formed of stone
with a plinth surmounted by a
balustrade; the square-set panelled
piers at intervals along the length have
moulded plinths and capping. This
structure was designed to allow
drainage of the formal gardens and
included internal air vents to prevent
rising damp from discolouring the Remnant balustrade -South Parterre
Bath stone.
On the central axis of the gardens, directly to the south of the mansion steps the
balustrades were interrupted by a pair of wrought iron gates leading out into the
parkland. Known as the 'Golden Gates', they were not part of Nesfield's original
plan. They were made by F. Feetham of London and exhibited at the 1862
London Exhibition. Ward, by then Earl of Dudley, seems to have bought and
installed them. Apparently they were originally of gilded wrought iron, although
latterly they were painted green, and are said to have been erected to celebrate
Queen Victoria's Silver Jubilee. The gates, 12ft wide and some 16ft high, were
complementedby 40 feet of decorative railings and two square stone terminals
surmounted with decorated stone vases. The Golden Gates were sold and taken
to Lake Havocsu in Arizona, USA. The resultant gap is a major loss in the
design, affectingthe main vista fromthe Court and upsetting the balance of the
composition.
The balustrade and wall also enclosed the North Parterre and a semicircular area
set on the main axis from the house. This large, semicircular platform acted as a
viewpoint over Front Pool.
During the 1950's thebalustrade dividing theformal gardens from thepark was
gradually demolished, stretches that were easily saleable were removed, and most
of the coping was thrown into theha-ha ditch. Small sections of complete
balustrading survive, although hidden indense (and protective) ivy growth, but
for mostof the circuit onlythemoulded plinth andthepiers arein place.
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West Pavilion
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3.1.7.5 The garden buildings
Two classical temples were built within the South Parterre east and west of the
main axis which is centred on the Perseus & Andromeda fountain. Originally
these helped to frame views within the gardens. The pavilions are open, domed
structures, square in plan approached by shallow steps. The domes have
decorative leaf ornament with four scrolls.
3.1.7.6 Lady Rachel's Garden
Formerly part of the Kitchen Garden
orchard lying between the walled
enclosure of the kitchen gardens and
the stable courtyards and separated
from the parkland to the south by the
18th century ha-ha, Lady Rachel's was
created by Lady Rachel Dudley, the
wife of the 2nd Earl during the early
1890s. The structure of Lady Rachel's
Garden is largely intact, though it now
forms the tea gardens of the ' VillaFiore' in private ownership. The Kitchen
Gardens, which are all in private ownership, were probably created in the late
18th century and lie to the west of the service courts. They comprise an oval
outer area, largely orchard, contained by an ornamental metal fence, with an
octagonal inner walled kitchen garden. The area contained a number of
buildings, all now in private occupation, including the head gardener's house, an
accommodation block for garden labourers, outbuildings and greenhouses.
Lady Rachel's Garden topiary planting (Pardoe)
3.1.8 The North Park: Outline History
3.1.8.1 The Front Pool & Wilderness
The Front Pool is the largest of the three artificial pools along the
_ course of the Shrawley Brook in Witley Park. The water enters
feffiP^^^^^^^fe^"^ through Cascade pool from the north and discharges over astone
outfall structure, the 'Cascade', and contained by an earth dam at
| the southeast end of the lake. Front Pool was originally
Viewacross to Front Pool blocked by conifers (1997)
'mm
Same viewafter restoration inJuly 1999
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Viewfrom the North Front across Front Pool to North Park & the Wilderness
beyond cl910 (Dr P.RJohnson 's Collection)
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Newfootbridge
nearing completion,
spring 1999
Rustic boathouse in 1996
Undergroundboathouse
ENGLISH HERITAGE
constructed as an ornamental pool flanking a formal causeway constructed in the
early 18th century by Thomas Foley (TF3). By 1822 the causeway had been
demolished and Front Pool was remodelled in a more naturalistic form.
Front Pool contains a healthy stock of coarse fish and fishing is leased to a local
club, who have constructed a number of timber fishing pegs along the banks.
The north west arm of the lake is inaccessible due to secondary woodland and
scrub growth and the banks are outside English Heritage ownership.
The area north of Front Pool, "The Wilderness", was planted with hardwoods
between 1772 and 1784. During the 1870s ornamental woodlands were
established along the edges of the Pool and to the east of the dam largely using
imported American species. Thereafter the area seems to have been lavishly
planted with ornamental shrubs and rhododendrons lining informal woodland
walks. Work commenced on the restoration of the North Park in January 1998
and was completed in May 1999. This included construction of the new site
access road, car park and visitor facilities; tree surgery, scrub clearance and
planting to the Wilderness woodlands and ornamental walks; path laying, fencing
and seating.
Below the dam a
footbridge took the
ornamental walk across the
Shrawley Brook. Only
remnants of the stone
bridge abutments remain as
the site of the bridge was
largely destroyed during
the modern construction of
a concrete slab horse jump.
The footbridge was
HH replaced by an arched
timber and stone structure
in 1999. Adjacent to the bridge is an underground spring set in an arched brick
and stone enclosure, which was repaired at the same time.
3.1.8.2 The Boathouses
A rustic boathouse of
timber construction was
built on the southern side
of the small western arm
of Front Pool, probably
before 1914. The building,
which was in danger of
collapse, was repaired in
1999.
On the north side of the
pool, a stone and brick
underground boathouse is set into a steep field-slope. This was used as a punt-
house, though its construction date is uncertain.
Reconstruction oftherusticboathousecompletedinspring 1999
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3.1.9 The Parkland: Outline History
Just as the development of the mansion at Witley can be traced from the
medieval period, so can the history of the park be charted over some 500years. It
changed in appearance andfunction according to contemporary fashion, tasteand
economics.
3.1.9.1 The Deer Park
Aparkwas in existence at Witleyby the 16thcentury. Amarriage settlement
between Thomas Foley and Elizabeth Ashe of Halstead, Kent, in 1664, refers to
All that Parkor impaledgroundcalled Witley Park.' This park, probably a deer
park, lay to the south of the house.
3.1.9.2 The Formal landscape - early 18th century
It was Thomas, 1st Baron Foley of Kidderminster (TF3), who landscaped the
parkbetween 1700 and 1733 to provide an impressive setting to the Court. By
acquiring glebe land adjoining the churchin 1704 and purchasingHillhampton
- h .. . . , .'
7752 map ofGreat WitleybyJ.Price
Manor in 1718, he greatly extended Witley Park to the north of the house.
WitleyCourt nowsat at the centre of thelandscape. Aformal, principal
approachto the house was in place by 1732. This led across the Front Pools,
which Foley constructed along the Shrawley Brook, by wayof a causeway and
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ENGLISH HERITAGE
Parti: Significance
bridge at the widest point. Bishop HoughvisitingWitley in 1733 wrote that
Foleyhad formed 'aspacious avenue to his house, resembling thatat Blenheim9
which has a similar causewaycrossing a deepravine.
3.1.9.3 The 'Landscape' Park - mid/late 18th century
William Shenstone visiting Witley in 1762 wrote that 'the parkwas capable of
being renderedfine; twice as striking as it is atpresent*. The fourth Lord Foley
took his strictures to heart andit is known that he laidout ornamental plantations
in the park.
By the time of Thomas Foley's (cLord Balloon') death (TF6) in 1793, there
seems to have been some dilapidations in the park, probably causedby a lack of
management under his tenure. A survey notes that Many Parts ofthePark are
wet and consequently encumbered with Rushes'.
3.1.9.4 The 'Landscape1 Park - the 19th century
During the early 19thcenturythe landscape was remodelled to complement the
grand schemeby Nash that was underway. Remedies to make the parkmore
profitable included hollow draining, mowing the rushes, the introduction of 'at
least Forty WelshSterks' (bullocks) to eat the rushes, and the reduction of the
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number of deer to five hundred. The park was extended eastwards to its present
boundary to include Warford Pool.
The causewayandbridge across Front Pool were removed. This was completed
by 1817 (Holland's map) andis shownon anumber of early 19thcentury
engravings andwatercolours. By 1839 the Wilderness lyingto the north-east of
Front Pool is known to have been an areaof mixed woodland, divided by a
carriage drivepassing through it. To the southwest of this North Drivea series
of ornamentalwalks were developed alongthe banks of Front Pool and Shrawley
Brook.
With the removal of the formal entrance leading up to the Court from the
turnpike road anapproach in keepingwith anatural 'English' style landscape was
laid out with the surviving, curving carriage drives formingthe principal
approach, ornamented with lodges at eachend. The Worcester Lodgelay at the
east entranceto Witley Park, while the Stourport Lodge lay at the west entrance
in the village of Great Witley.
3.1.9.5 20th century decline and disintegration of the Parkland
By the late 19thcentury the parkhadbecome important for various sporting
activities as well as for its landscape setting for the house. By 1895 there was 'a
sportinglittle9-hole golfcourse', the hazards werenatural, a smalllake, a
spinneyand fences. This seemsto havebeen situated betweenthe Lodge and
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EXTRACT FROM THE 1938SALE PLAN (hwro) SHOWING DIVISION OFLAND FOR SALE
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EXTRACT FROM ORDNANCE SURVEY 25" to 1 mile 1884 Edition (not to scale)
SHOWING AREA AROUND HOUSE
Witley Court
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Warford Pools, eastofWitley Court Farm. In 1902, the Earl arranged a golfing
house-party to which ten top professionals were invitedto compete in anevent,
commemorated by a photograph now in the church.
There was also a cricket pitch specially designedandconstructedto the south
west of theCourt (much usedby the second Earl of Dudley) and anarchery
green, laid out in the late 19thcentury. Duringthe Edwardian erathe
Worcestershire Hunt was a frequent visitor to the Court and for a time the Hunt's
kennels were housed on the estate. In the south-west corner of the Deer Park an
enclosure was used to keep captured fox cubs so that they couldreachadult-hood
beforebeingreleased at various points around the estate specifically for the Hunt.
This areaof the Estate is still locally known as 'Fox holes'.
Followingthe fire of 1937 amajor sale of standingtimber in 1938resulted in the
obliteration of the majorityof the woodland enclosing the parkand few areas
were replanted. Some plantations survived as woodland but did not escape ^ )
felling of the primetimbertrees. Odd remnants of the parkland planting to the
south survived, as did the trees within the Lower Ornamental Walks within the
Wilderness.
Avenue plantings along the Carriage Drives have disappeared as have the
majorityof parkland trees within what is now primarily an arable landscape. The
pools have been gradually engulfed by naturallyregenerating scrub creatinga
visual divide between the Court and the North Park.
Post-war, one of the greatest impacts on the parkhas been the development of
housing plots along the carriage drives isolating it from its parkland setting. This
housing development has meant that the carriage drive is not solely dedicated to
servicing the Court and All Saints Church and there are others with rights of
access, in particular farm vehicles and heavy transporters. In addition the
ornamental lodges have been sold and they are now private dwellings.
3.1.10 Flora &Fauna [^J
3.1.10.1 A History
Assessment of the ecology and wildlife conservation significance ofWitley
Court and its parklandneeds to encompass two distinct elements. It is necessary
to considerthe biological diversity of the parkin its present condition, with
reference to the contribution it makes to wildlife conservation in local and
national contexts, and also to consider the wildlife present in the 18th and 19th
centuries with reference to its contribution to the park as a landscape experienced
by the occupants of Witley Court, whosedemands, however expressed, shaped
that landscape.
Modern concerns focus on species which are locally uncommonbecause they are
near thelimit of their regional distribution oron species whichare present locally
but are nationally scarce orendangered. Several plant species present atWitley _
Court fall into the first category; thebatspecies and thebeetles and lichens which
willbepresent with the veteran trees are inthe second category. All organisms
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have complex habitat requirements but vary widely in their adaptability to
change; some have highly critical requirements of a number of different habitats,
bats are a classic example of this.
The obligation to conserve endangeredwildlife, in some cases a legal
requirement, is independent of historic conservation. A long-eared bat in a
commonplace modern house receives the same level of protection as one in a
grade I listed building. The visitor to Witley who lives in such a house does
however have an expectation ofwildlife presence which is similar to that of most
19th century visitors; bats are bats, beetles are beetles, but a skylark is recognised
and valued, and woodland should have birds singing in spring.
Careful consideration of the historic record can enable us to construct a habitat
model of the park. The western half of the south park area could have been
fenced as deer park by the late Middle Ages, since an 'impaled deer park' is
referred to in the 17th century, and one appears on the 1732 map. This map
shows the deer park as separate from the court, which is surrounded by small
fields. The whole area of these fields south of the carriage drive had been
converted to parkland by 1770, so this farmland was most unlikely to have been
significantly improved for agriculture beforehand. It is likely that many of the
parkland trees were present as hedgerow trees before emparkment, and that plant
diversity would have been high within the fields.
Emparkment would have resulted in some loss ofhedgerow habitat but the
planting of new trees and the increase in woodland around the edges would have
replaced this. The large area of pasture, not overgrazed, damp in places, and
associated with pools, streams, woodland and old trees should have had a rich
and diverse population of wildlife. A small proportion of creatures, classified as
vermin by the gamekeepers, might have been trapped or shot at every
opportunity, but small animals including most birds and insects and all flowering
plants would have been seen as part of 'nature's rich tapestry', very evidently
valued by many Victorians.
The improvements to drainage around 1820 could have caused some loss of
habitat diversityand the intensificationof game shootingand managementfrom
1860 onwards could have adversely affected woodland and caused further
pressure on 'vermin', but there was no major habitat change until the 1938 sale,
when the park ceased to be one unit; the woods were clear felled and most of the
south park area convertedto commercial agriculture. The experienceof the
modern visitor to Witleynot onlylacks the general visual impression of open
parkland within a wooded landscape, but also misses the detailed and immediate
impression of natural countryside engendered by the closepresence of deer,
skylarks, othersongbirds, butterflies, grasshoppers anda variety of wildflowers.
3.1.10.1 Present Status
Witley Court contains no statutory sites for wildlife conservation such as Sites of
SpecialScientific Interest (SSSIs). Ironically, however, it is a fact that the
ruinous condition of the buildings and neglected state of adjacent woodland has
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The Lesser Horseshoe Bat - one
ofBritains 's rarest bats, which
roosts in the cellars of Witley
Court
ENGLISH HERITAGE
led to the development of a wide range of habitats around the site that makes a
valuable contribution to conservation of wildlife and local biodiversity. Witley
Court is a notable site for bat conservation- 6 species reside here, of the 14bat
species foundin Britainand the Court cellars are an important roosting area.
Badgers are knownto forage in and aroundthe Witley Court parterres. An area
of permanent pasture, as foraging ground providing earthworms, is a necessary
part of the ecological unit around badger setts; in this case there is no other
accessible area within their home range.
Two areas within Witley Parkhave been designated by the Worcestershire
Wildlife Trust as Special Wildlife Sites. This designationapplies to sites
regarded as of at least County level importance for nature conservation. Front
Pool is part of Special Wildlife Site (SWS 5076/17 'Pools near Witley Court")
and is notable for a swamp communityof reed mace, Typha angustifolia, which
is uncommon in Worcestershire. The second Special Wildlife Siteis Shrawley
Brook and its environs, (SWS No. 5076/21).
Elsewhere at Witley Court, there is a mix of woodlands, scrub, grasslands and
water features. The former parkland has been converted to arable farmland,
which is typical of the changes to have occurred in the wider countryside
The woodland areas along the northern edge ofNorth Park are largely dominated
by the non-native sycamore with a few pedunculate oak trees, crack willows, ash
trees and one very large grey poplar. Examination of the understorey shows that
in addition to sycamore seedlings there are a large number of native trees and
shrubs present, including shade tolerators such as yew, holly and wild cherry. In
the less disturbed areas the ground flora is typical of a Midland oak wood on a
neutral soil, dominated by bramble. No rare or uncommon plants or animals
have been recorded from this woodland except for sedges in wet areas, but these
woods are of value for nesting birds and as a foraging resource. There is
considerable potential to improve their conservation value.
The water quality in Front Pool is generally good despite substantial silt deposits.
There are no detectable contaminants or pollutants. There is some nutrient
enrichment although this varies across the lake and is probably related to
decaying organic matter and to the presence of some Canada Geese.
3.2 STATUTORY CONTROLS
3.2.1 Scheduled ancient monuments
The scheduling of monuments by the Secretary of State for Culture, Mediaand
Sportis part of the principal legislation affecting monuments in England
(Ancient Monuments andArchaeological Areas Act 1979, amended by the
National Heritage Act 1983).
Scheduling is a very selective process and to be included the monument must be
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of national importance. Witley Court, its gardens and associated buildings are
scheduled on account ofthe following criteria:
Primarily, it was recognisedthat scheduling Witley would assist in achieving
its long term preservation
Situated in an areahighly accessible to the public from a predominantly wide
urban areaof the East Midlands it has a high amenity value
It is a classic example of an English country house where the domestic
development canbe demonstrated over more than 600 years, andis typically
representativeof contemporary architectural styles
As a monument Witley Court is an important regional example of its type
The Perseus and Andromeda fountain is a rare example of high Victorian
garden sculpture.
The monument survives to a great extent both above and below ground
The close relationship between Witley Court, Great Witley Church and the
Nesfield fountains means that they are recognised as being of Group value,
with a closely allied development
There is great potential at Witley for teaching us about the past. The site is
archaeologicallyrich in the information that it holds relatingto the
construction and development of a country estate, house and allied services
There are good historical records of the monument. These are
complemented by detailed records of recent conservation and consolidation
works
The extent of the Scheduled AreaunderEnglish Heritage Guardianship is shown
on the Landscape Context plan opposite page 2.
3.2.2 Listed Buildings
Lists of buildings of special architectural orhistoric interest are compiled inorder
to offer guidance to local planning authorities, thelists being issued by the
Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS, under theTown and Country
Planning Act, 1971). Where a buildingis both hsted and scheduledas an ancient
monument, the statutory controls of the 1979 Act take precedence (see 3.3.1).
Buildings are classified ingrades according totheir relative importance. St
Michael &All Angels church, Witley Court and itslink tothechurch, and the
Perseus &Andromeda Fountain are all listed as Grade I buildings, inrecognition
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CONSERVATION PLAN Part1: Significance
that they areof great importance to the nation's built heritage. Less than 5%of
alllisted buildings are Grade I, thereby highlighting the importance of theWitley
buildings in anational context. They are outstanding architecturally - both
individually andtaken togetheras a group.
There are no less than 16 otherbuildingswithin Witley parkclassifiedas Grade
II buildings. These are buildings of special interestwhereevery effort should be
madeto preserve them. Two of these are particularly important andmerit Grade
II* status- the curvedlinking wing, pavilionand orangery, andthe Flora
fountain. The curvedwing, pavilion andorangery are examplesof Samuel
Daukes' work and contain some of Forsytes stone carving andmasonry. There
was particular technological virtuosityin the way that the thick plate glass of the
conservatorywindows were insertedinto the building without conventional
window frames. The Flora fountain is another important group ofVictorian
garden statuary (see 4.5.2).
Of the remaining Grade II listedbuildings some are specificallyarchitectural
features of the formal gardens :
Retaining walls, steps with intermediate spurs approx 15mto the
south of the Court
Enclosing screen wall with alcove west of orangery
Gate Pier and wall and base of second gate pier 30m east of stable
complex
South-east pavilion and adjoining section of balustrading
South-west pavilion and adjoining section of balustrading
Section of balustrading to north-east of the Court
Gate Piers and gates to west drive to Church (wrought iron)
These listings all reflect an attempt and intention to protect the designed layout of
the formal gardens. Although protection can be given to individual garden {^_J
features, the overall plan and designed effect of a landscape has no statutory
protection.
The Stables and coach house are also Grade II buildings, as important and
integral buildingswithin the Witley Court complex. The otherGrade II
buildings are all estate buildings whichillustrate the social andeconomic aspects
of estate life and the manner in which functional buildings were incorporatedinto
anornamental landscape, becoming important architectural features in theirown
right:
The Garden House and Villa Fiore
Garden wall to rear of Garden House and Villa Fiore
Railings and gate piers and gates to garden enclosure north and east
of Garden House and Villa Fiore (wrought iron)
Stourport or Rosery Lodge
Worcester Lodge
Balustrading and steps toWorcester Lodge (i
ENGLISH HERITAGE
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3.2.3 Protected species
Witley Parkcontains no statutorily designated sitesof natureconservation
interest (SSSIs). However, it is thehabitat for certain animal species protected
bylegislation. TheWildlife andCountryside Act 1981 (as amended), provides
protection for all bat species (Vespertilionidae andRhinolophidae). Thebadgers
at Witley are legallyprotectedunder the BadgersAct 1992.
3.2.4 Statutory requirements applicable to works consents and
Planning Permission
Anyone wishing to carry out works ona sitewhich is scheduled or contains a
scheduled/listed monumentmay need bothplanningpermission and scheduled
monument or listed building consent. There might also be other statutory
consents applicable to the works.
Class Consent: Certain categoriesof works to scheduledmonuments have
scheduledmonument consent grantedautomatically by virtue of the Ancient
Monuments (Class Consents)Order 1981 (amended 1984). This procedure
is similar to that whereby planning permission is automatically granted for
certain developments by the General DevelopmentOrder. These works
include current maintenance to buildings and landscape and some works
essential in the interests of health & safety. Under Class 6 English Heritage
had consent to execute works on scheduled sites in its guardianship.
3.2.5 Monuments in guardianship
The majority of scheduled or hsted monuments are privately owned and,
although some are open to the visiting public, keeping a monument in a good
state of repair and conservation can be both costly in financial terms and
demanding in terms of facilities. The Secretary of State has the power to acquire
an endangered monument or to become the guardian of a monument. English
Heritage has some 400 historic buildings and monuments in its care on behalf of
the Secretary of State - one being Witley Court.
3.2.6 Register of Historic Parks & Gardens
The RegisterofParks andGardens ofSpecial Historic Interest, compiledby
English Heritage is an advisory document produced to draw attention to
important historic gardens andparks considered to be an essential part of the
nation's heritage. The aimis to inform owners, planners, developers andother
statutory bodies and advisory agencies so that measures can be considered to
protect the heritage. Although no statutory controls followfrom the inclusion of
a site ontheRegister, planning authorities are charged with their protection when
preparing development plansandin determining planning applications.
Sites that are included are graded inthe same manner asfor listed buildings
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Witley Court
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(Grade I, II*or II) to denote distinct qualities, although unlike listedbuildings
there is no statutory control relating to development or changes within the site.
Witley Court is designated as aGrade n* garden andpark in recognition of its
exceptional interest.
Witley Court is one of 16historic parks andgardens in Worcestershire whose
registration acknowledges theirnational importance. Among the 16aretwo
Grade I sites, Hagley Hall andCroome Court, which standamong the greatest of
England's 18th century landscape parks. Witley Court is one of five Grade II*
sites. Had moreof Nesfield's garden design beenvisibleit wouldundoubtedly
have been a strongcandidatefor GradeI registration.
3.2.7 Tree Preservation Orders
There are three TPOs (TPO 101238 pt; TPO 606 pt; TPO 101093 pt) which ^_J
together cover the Court, the Nesfield Gardens, the Front Pool bank and dam, the
southern part of the lower rhododendron walks and sections of the west and east
CarriageDrives. All are blanket TPOs, which means that all the trees within
these areas are protected and if any tree is damaged, diseased or die, they must be
replantedwith the approval of the local authority. There is also a requirement to
agreeany tree works, including felling, in advance with the local authority.
3.2.8 Guidance notes and policies
A number of planning policy documents exist which define the constraints within
which any modification, alteration or development must take place. The
following are considered relevant to this Conservation plan:
Listed Building Policies (Planning Policy Guidance No. 15) : the Local
Authority will seek to ensurethat any development which affects the setting of a
Listed Building, Scheduled Ancient Monument, or Registered Parkpreserves or
enhances that setting. Proposals which would have a detrimental effect on the
settingwill not normally be grantedplanningpermission.
Archaeological control (Planning Policy GuidanceNo. 16) : Appropriate
archaeological evaluations should be submitted as part of aplanning application
to allow proper account to betaken of thearchaeological potential of the site in
determining that application.
Theguidance seeks to minimise the disturbance to other archaeological sites
which may ormay notbeapparent when aplanning application is submitted.
Where disturbance of archaeological deposits is unavoidable, the planning
authority willrequire awritten proposal for the excavation, recording and post-
excavation analysis of such remains tobe approved before thedevelopment can
start. The general supposition is in favour of the preservation of the
archaeological resource in situ.
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3.2.9 Malvern Hills District Local Plan
Local authorities are obligedto prepareLocal Plans to guide development and
planning in their local district. Thereby theyalsoconsiderthe culturalheritage,
countryside andnature conservation and present a framework to direct any
proposed development or use.
The Malvern Hills Local Plan (Deposit Draft Malvern Hills District Local Plan,
February 1995) contains a number of these policies relate directly to Witley
Court and thereby define direct constraintswithin which any developmentwill be
consideredby the local planning authority. The Local Plan recognises the
importance of historic landscapes, their significant contributionto the quality of
the landscape and that their protection is necessary if future generations are also
to enjoy them. Thereby the local authority will only allow development at
Witley Court where there is a minimal effect on the landscape. Any new
development must be able to incorporate existinghistoric landscape features or
be allied with conditions to have a minimal effect on them.
The local authority's conservation policies seek to protect the setting of listed
buildings (Conservation Policy 11: The Setting ofListedBuildings). This policy
states that development will be resisted where it would disrupt the setting of the
Usted building, important views fromthe building, or where there would be a
loss of the landscape features important to the character or appearance of the
listedbuilding. Where reuse of Usted buildings is permitted, provisionof vehicle
access and adequate vehicleparking must be made whichdoesnot aversely affect
the settingof the building, or whereit is capable of beingadequately screened
and landscaped.
Duringthe post-warperiodvariousnewdwellings were constructed in the
environs of Witley Court, to the detriment of thevisual setting of the Grade I
buildings. These newhouses also disrupted therelationship of themansion to
different areas of thegardens and lakes (important landscape features). A
positive benefit of taking Witley Court intoguardianship in 1972 has beena
greater resistanceto further intrusivedevelopment.
The recognition thatparkland surrounding historic buildings is of cultural
importance inits own right, rather than justfor providing a 'setting' is
comparatively recent. Post-war adhoc development had begun toerode the
character of the park, threatening its survival, identity and character. With the
parkland nowregistered and recognised, there are concerns that any further
development would be harmful to the special character ofthe designed historic
landscape. Development pressure wiU be resisted until afuU survey and
landscape strategy has been developed for the Great Witley Estate and the
landscape setting ofthe historic monument. The District Council recognises that
historic parklands, which have sometimes evolved over several centuries, make a
significant contribution to the overall quaUty ofthe landscape and protection of
these important local features isnecessary for the enjoyment offuture
generations. The District Council is to investigate the designation ofthe
registered gardens (including Witley Court) as Conservation Areas foUowing
pubUc consultation.
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CONSERVATION PLAN Part 1: Significance ,
4. THE NATURE AND CONDITION OF THE WITLEY
COURT ESTATE & ASSESSMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE
4.1 SIGNIFICANCE
TheConservation Planmethodology is useful inhelping to balance:
an understanding of the importance of individual elements of the site
with
an understanding of the importance of the Witley Court estate as a
whole
The cultural significance of a place is anamalgam of architectural, archaeological
and artistic values. The significance isenhanced through looking atthe site's I J
history, sociology, its association withpeople andevents in the past. An
appreciation of the landscape and ecological values further infuse a site with its
special qualities and contributetowards a 'sense of place'. An appraisal of the
major components of Witley Court has looked at these values in terms of then-
levels of importance; international, national, regional and local.
4.2 OVERVIEW OF SIGNIFICANCE
The Witley Court Estate dominated the Teme vaUeyin north-western
Worcestershire for over three hundred years. It epitomises the development, rise
and decline of the great EngUshcountry estate over some five hundred years with
its cyclesof investment and decline. The consequences of a 20th centurywhich
has seen two World Wars, and the decline of the agricultural and industrial
economic base whichfunded the mid/late 19th century 'folie de grandeur' of high
Victorian palace and elaborate gardens is embodied in the Witley Court seen
today. It is useful to stand back and define what makes Witley Court special - it
is:
an impressive ruin, with monumental classical porticoes and \ /
extensive relic gardens
a microcosm of the rise and decline of the English rural estate
a place of special heritage significance
a place which stimulates the imagination and challenges the
visitor
a place of melancholy and decay
4.3 SIGNIFICANCE BY AREA
4.3.1 Significance of Witley Court as a Ruin
Witley Court and the link to the church are Listed Grade I. The curved linking
wing, pavilion and orangery are Listed Grade II*.
Thecomplex of ruins at Witley Court is significant because:
As a ruin taken into guardianship it has received national recognition of its ^
architectural, social and historical importance, despite its declining \ J
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fortunes during the 20th century
Its historical continuity as a country house of leading county importance
Archaeological investigation ofthe building has shownthe complex
development ofthe country houseoversome 600years. For a long time it
was the country seat offamiliesprominent inlocalpolitics, who moved in
the leading social circles ofthe day andwas anexpression oftheir economic
wealth.
It is nationally important as a prime example of one of the great 19th
century country houses
In 1897, Country Lifedescribedit as pre-eminent amongst thestatelyhomes
ofEngland 'though it is architecturally without particular distinction.'
Despite its ruinedstate, its architectural qualities arestill apparent and
givenrecognition bythe range ofstatutory conservationpolicies appliedfor
its protection.
It is a nationally important example of Nash's work
Duringthe laterremodelling ofthe mansion, Nash's two immense porticoes
were retained. Thesestill dominatethe buildings, and are a majorfeature
ofthecomposition respected bysubsequent architectural developments.
It is an important example of mid Victorian architecture
TheItalianate design of Witley Court was greatlyinfluencedby theroyal
palace at OsborneHouse, Isle of Wight. Thisstyle based on 16thand 17th
century Italiandesignbecame theforemost style, andDaukes' designis a
significant example ofthis contemporary trend.
It is nationally significant as one of only three country houses designed
by Daukes
The othersare at nearbyAbberley Hall (1845-46), also in theItalianate
style andatHorstedPlace, Sussex (1850-52) which is ina Tudor style.
It has national recognition of its architectural, social and historical
importance
When taken into Guardianship in1972 the sole aim was tosaveitfrom
further damage - exceptionally, the Department ofthe Environment took the
whole ofthe house, garden andservice courts intoState care.
It is an impressive ruin, with imposing classicalporticoes ofmonumental
proportions whichdwarfs the humanscale
It is of high recreational value
Witley Court is visited bythousands ofpeople everyyear, who areattracted
bythe ruins, ruinedgarden andthe opencountryside around the site. It is
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Witley Court
one ofthe major historic sites incloseproximity to the urban areas of
Worcester, Bromsgrove and Kidderminster.
It is characterised by an atmosphere of past glory and grandeur and
reflects a faded past
Many local people havefamily connections and histories relatedto events at
Witley Court or the rolethat itplayedinthe social andeconomic life ofthe
district
It is educational and captures the imagination
It givespeople an unusual opportunity to explore theruins ofa country
mansion andgardens, experience the internal structures andspace and use
their imagination. The site has greatpotentialfor teaching us aboutthe
past, and displays a varietyofbuildingtechniques, styles and traditions.
It is a working example of 20th century philosophy of repair
Afeature ofthe site's conservation history is thatalmost all recent
philosophies ofrepair can now be seen in thestructure. Initially
conservation work was designed to strengthen theweakstructure, and the
level ofintervention was high. Subsequently theapproachhas been to
repair the ruins ofthe house as a landscapefeature, and to display both the
house andgardenas ruins.
Conservation Issues for the main buildings & courtyards:
some areas are unsafe and are therefore inaccessible
the buildingshave been strippedof their romanticism by consoUdation
and safetyworks and standsas a maintained ruin, rather than an
abandoned feature in the landscape
the skyline of the building remains largely intact but is disfigured by
recent losses
the concretestructure which supports the damaged east tower is unsightly
but is animportant indicator to the philosophy for repair of theruin
where features have been lost these have been repUcatedin artificial
stone in order to aUowidentification of replacement features
only a few buildings within the kitchen courtyards retain their original
rooves and are currently in poor condition, unusedandproviding no
benefit to the site
the courtyard areais currently a mixture ofruined and useable buildings,
the proportional balance of which is important to keep
the areahas a unique melancholy atmosphere which it is desirable to
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perpetuation of theruined stateof the House is costlyandconceivably
not the best method of retarding the decay process
Though the main building has been made structurally safe, it isstill a ruin and
internal walls are open tothe weather. There are large areas of wall plaster in
need ofconservation andareas offacing stonework that needs re-fixing in its
originalposition.
The mainparts of the building accessible to visitors are inreasonable condition,
and the porticoes and terrace steps on the north andsouth sides have been
repairedandafloor slab has been installed over the basements in the main hall
range and the east wing. The visitor now has access atgroundfloorlevel to
these areas. However, the terrace stepson the eastfront have not, as yet, been
repaired.
The kitchen andstable courtyards, which are to the south andwest ofthe
churchyard, are not open to the public and much ofthe area has been usedasa
works compoundfor manyyears. Although not inimminent danger of collapse,
the walls andbuildings that surround the service courtyards are at risk andtheir
theattribution to Nash makes these areas ofsome importance.
The western walls andentrance ofthe outercourtyardhave recently been
comprehensively repaired. The courtyard ispresently used as a carparkfor
disabledvisitors andfor visitors to the Church only.
4.3.2 Significance: St Michael and All Angels Church &Churchyard
The church ofStMichael &All Angels is ListedGrade I.
The parish church of Great Witley, situated alongside the ruined court is :
Recognised internationally as an outstanding example of a Baroque
church interior
Theinteriorisfurnished withworks byBellucci, Bagutti andJoshua Price
derivedfrom LordChandos' chapel at Cannons. These were considered
some ofthemost magnificent decorations oftheirtime and renowned
internationally
Regionally important in its role as a parish church
A church has existedon the hill, as a centrefor Christian worship over
hundreds ofyears. It is significant that since 1967the local community have
restored the church which was the onlyroofed building, andcontrasts with
the ruined, roofless courtalongside.
Inextricably linked with the history and development of Witley Court
Although it is the Great Witleyparishchurch, it hassomeofthe character of
aprivate chapel. The Baroque church was built byThomas 2ndLordFoley
andhis mother, Maryto replace the medieval parishchurch The church
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and crypt contains a series ofdistinguishedmonuments to past owners of
Witley Court - the Foleyfamily, the Earls ofDudley, including a monument
ofl 753 to1stBaron FoleybyJMRysbrack
Important for its notable collection of 19thcentury English church
fittings by local craftsmen
The19th centuryfittings were designedby Samuel Daukesfor the 1st Earl of
Dudley. William andJames Forsyth undertook the carvings at their
workshop in Worcester.
Conservation Issues:
lack of consistency in interpretation of and a distinction between the
Church and the Court, which is a recent situation
Extensive repairs and refurbishment startedin 1962 by theParochial Church
Council andnow the church is invery goodcondition andsubject to
quinquennial review. The churchyard is mainly laidtograss which is regularly
mown, althougha couple ofovergrown areas conceal monuments.
4.3.3 Significance: the Nesfield Parterre Gardens
The gardensare registeredas a GradeII* historicgarden
The gardens are important as being:
An outstanding example of formal garden design
Despite theirrelict state thegardens are an outstandingexampleofformal
gardendesign by one ofthe mostprominentgarden designers ofthe
Victorianperiod.
Nationally significant as one ofthe few surviving examples of William ^ J
Nesfield's work
The Nesfieldgardens are nationallysignificantas there arefew surviving
examples of WA Nesfield's work - most gardens having been remodelledor
destroyed, followinga reaction in the later19th century against thisformal
style. Any survivingprivate gardens aresimilarly relict or the outline only
survives.
An essential complement to the grand, palatial scale of the Court
Theformal gardens are highly significant inrelation to the grand, palatial
scaleof the Court. Their existence andsurvival must beconsidered
complementary, rather than subordinate to the buildings. They are part of
the grandscheme conceived by thefirst Earl ofDudley. The garden design
hadan order andstructure which imparts a strongair offormality.
A rare surviving example of a 19th century parterre garden
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They are importantfor theirhigh degree ofsurvival which is nationally rare,
oftheparterresand theirconstituent elements. Parterres ofthis type were
laid in manygardens in the latterpart ofthe 19th century, but only afew
survive. Excavation ofthe east parterre has revealedthe elementsof
Nesfield design.
A garden with an exceptional level of existing documentation
The gardens at Witley Court are exceptionally well documented both
historicallythrough illustrations andphotographs, and archaeologically
where excavationshaveproved thepersistence oftheparterreforms in the
East Parterre. Althoughplanting changed over theyears this mainly
appliedto thebeddingandherbaceous plantingschemes, theformal aspect
andlayoutojthe parterres changinglittle. Somedetails oftheplanting
/""N schemes ofthe 1860-1870s can be discernedfromcontemporary
horticultural accounts.
An outstanding assemblage of sensory experiences
Fromthe dramaticframing effect oftheNorthParterre to the intimacy ofthe
East Parterre to the containedgrandscale oftheSouthParterre thegardens
providedvisitors with a richrange ofexperiencesfor the imagination and
intellect as well as thesenses - sight, sound andsmell
Evidence of a once opulent lifestyle
The gardens provideevidence ofan extravagant, privilegedandopulent
lifestyle, nowlargelyunsustainable
Garden Conservation Issues:
the sense of order, focused views and three dimensional space is
f*"**) diminished by the absence of architectural planting and surfaced paths,
the diffusion of terrace embankments for ease of maintenance, and
uncontroUed growth of vegetation.
the ephemeral content of the gardens (statuary, vases, urns etc) provided
emphasis to path lines or terminated vistas, and the visual impact of the
gardens is diminished by their loss
Theformal gardens are an integralpart ofthe architectural designandhistoric
value of Witley Court. They are ofequal value to thebuildings andshouldnot
be consideredonly as a 'setting'for the house. Archaeological excavationhas
shown that theparterresforming an integralpart oftheNesfield design were
scarcely alteredandfull details oftheirdesign can be established.
It is important to align theconservation oftheformal gardenswith that ofthe
buildings. Thedesignframework ofthegardensshouldbe restoredso that the
sense ofscale, impactand architectural dramacan be appreciated In their
current state Nesfield's skilful use ofscale andperspective is lost and the
(] existing structural garden elements are without context, appearing lostina bare
grass sward. The impact ofthefountains is marred bya bleakgroundplane.
Witley Court
Restoration wouldincura reduction ofabout20%in thearea ofpermanent
grasslandwithin the gardens. Of little intrinsic value initself, it is ofvaluefor
foraging birds andmammals, since it is a source ofinvertebrates, often of
seasonal importance.
The gardens were plannedforfamily use andfor entertaining ona lavishscale
butnotfor theincreasingnumbers ofvisitors thatarrive today. Large events
can cause excessive wear and tearand evendamage unless a sustainable level is
realised. Assessing suitable levels ofuse is vital.
4.3.4 Significance: the Fountains
The Perseus &Andromeda Fountainis ListedGrade I and theFlorafountain is
Listed Grade II*
The fountains at Witley are significant as:
A nationally important, grandiose 19th century outdoor sculptural
composition
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The central Perseus &Andromedafountain is said to be the largest
sculptural composition in Europeand thefountains are recognisedas two of
the most importantfountains in the country.
Part of a long European tradition
TheEuropeantraditionoffountains usingstatuarydepictingclassical,
mythologicalfigures as their centrepiece, is a long one going back to
Renaissance gardens inItaly whichwere inspiredbyHadrianfs villa at
Tivoli
In design terms as centrepieces to the Nesfield parterres
They are thefocus ofthe gardens. In terms ofthe hierarchy ofthe exterior I J
buildings they are thefocus oftheparterres complementingthe Court as the
focus ofthe landscape. Thedesign ofthe twofountaingroups also provided
a contrast in effects - theFlorafountain relyingmore on thesoothing nature
offalling water, as opposed to the dramaticunleashing ofsheer powerfrom
the Perseus &Andromedafountain
A significant feat of ornamental water engineering
The construction ofthefountains was a massiveworkofengineeringand the
logistics were considerable. Waterfor thefountains waspumpeduphill
fromthe HundredPoll usinga single-piston steam engine toa reservoir
1km. west ofthehouse. From thereservoir thewater wasfed to thefountain
at the rate ofover 4,000 gallons a minute.
A spectacular visual & audio display
The occasional spectacularfountaindisplays along with thethunderous -
roar ofwaterprovided both a diversion anda contrast to the normal M
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tranquil nature ofthe parterre gardens - this wasanimation ona grand
scale anda highlightofa visit to theCourt.
An iconographic statement
The reading ofwhich may beas deep oras shallow as its observer's
imagination
Fountain Conservation Issues:
the fountains are presently difficult to understandbecause of the loss of
detail and damage which reinforces the mythological stories they are
designed to teU
the fountains are currently inoperative, thus removing the design
spectacle and animation fromthe gardenalongwiththe visual and
audible sensation they were designed to stimulate.
the fountains currently fail to illustrate the opulence and spectacle which
would have been the climax of a visit to the Court
The centrepiece to the Perseus &Andromeda Fountain is in reasonable
conditionand has hadsome recent minorrepair, but theNereid and dolphin
figures were soldin the 1960}s. The centralfigureofthe Florafountain was
broken into pieces inan unsuccessful attempt to remove it. The stonerequired
to re-carve it waspurchasedin 1996, however, this work hasyet tostart. The
sameyear the basins ofbothfountains were relinedwith asphalt andare now
filled with water. This waterbarrier has helpedtoprevent anyfurthervandalism
to the statues.
Although the route ofthefountains' original undergroundservices is known,
andthe passages survive ina reasonable condition all the pipes andmachinery
have been lost. A brief has beenpreparedfor a surveyofthe underground
tunnels andpipe work. There are several issues whichremain to be resolved,
namely:
the extent ofthepassage to the northofthe Perseus &Andromedafountain
the extent and natureofthepipe workeastwardsfrom the Perseus &
Andromedapassage
the exact course ofthepipe workfrom the reservoirand Washing Pool to the
Perseus &Andromedafountain.
Apartfrom recentminorevents usingmobilepumps, thefountains have not
playedsince the 1930s. ThePoseidon Society wasformed in 1989 withthe
intention ofrestoringthe Perseus &Andromeda andFlora Fountains to their
originalsplendour andworking order. Their restoration wouldaddsignificantly
to theattractions of Witley Court, provide afocus for thegardens and buildings
andprovidea highlyunusual architectural ensemble compared to othersites in
the UnitedKingdom.
page 40
Witley Court
The Perseus &Andromeda Fountainfollowon instyle andthemefrom the great
fountains shown at the Great Exhibition in1851, followedbythe Atlasfountain
at Castle Howard in 1853.
4.3.5 Significance: the Balustrade & Ha-Ha
The balustrade is Listed Grade II.
The balustrade is significant as :
A foremost example of a formal balustraded terrace
While there are many examples ofsuchbalustraded terraces in this country,
there arefew which encompass a comparable llacres offormal garden and
built on such a palatial scale.
Using some innovative design techniques
Archaeological excavation and survey workhas demonstratedthe innovative
integral drainage systemand air gap designed to ensure thatdampdid not
disfigure thestonework, all developedbyNesfield.
The balustrade was a physical and metaphysical barrier, important in
enclosing and protecting an area of controUed landscape, clearly defining
and demarcating the intensive and intricate horticultural areas from the
rural, more 'natural' landscape beyond. The balustrade defines this
boundary and creates a visual barrier which stops the eye, particularly on
the east and north side of the garden where extensive views over the park
were desired.
the Golden Gates provided a focal point beyond the Perseus &
Andromeda fountain and came into their own right when the fountain {^J
was not playing and by providing definition to the southern extremity of
the garden boundary
the balustrade provides protection to a vertical drop into the ha-ha and in
some areas this is significant, particularly on the east side of the garden
the perimeter strip immediatelybeyond the balustrade is weed infested,
provides a seedbed of rankweeds andvisuaUy detracts fromviews out
of the garden
Undergrowth has been clearedalongthe whole perimeter length andthe ha-ha
excavated to retrieve all the copings andbroken balusters. Aphotographic
survey hasbeen carried out toenable restorationplanstobeprepared. Survey
andexcavation haveproducedevidence oftheintegraldrainage system.
The restoration of the balustrade is important inenclosing theformal gardens
from a designperspective, and to some extent will aidindefining the
guardianship boundary and assist in site-security. The whole area infront of \^J
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the Courthas nowbeen restoredand the balustradingis being rebuilt (April
1999). Due to the use ofthelawns as aforaging area bybadgers special
provisionwill have to be madeso as not to impede theiraccess to thisarea.
4.3.6 Significance: the Garden Buildings
The Pavilions are Listed Grade II*
They are significant as:
An integral part of the garden design
Of limited importance bythemselves, the gardenpavilions arean integral
part ofthe garden design. Viewedfrom the steps infrontofthe mansion, the
two temples orpavilions, slightlyfurther away than the Perseus &
Andromedafountain, help toframe theviewofthe risinggroundbetween
This viewwouldhavefocussed on theGoldenGates.
The pavilions survived the depredations ofthe '50s and '60s andare still
reasonably complete, although nowwithout the urns andsomeofthe paving
Theirfunction interms oftheformaldesigned landscape should be retained and
the temples conserved.
4.3.7 Significance: Lady Rachel's Garden
They are significant as:
Being important in relation to the wider scheme of survival at Witley
Court
Although theoriginalplantinghas longsince gone the 18thcentury walls of
the walledgardens and thegrass terracesfrom LadyRachel's Garden
survive. They are significant in relation to thewiderscheme ofsurvivalat
Witley Court.
the Western Gardens are currently managed as private garden and
commercial tea rooms; the historic boundary fencing, though run down
and damaged is largely intact and some evidence of the early garden
layout survives
In additionto the walled kitchen gardens whichare inseparate ownership and
theGardener's House to thenorth-west, this wholearea has becomefragmented
post-war. The threat ofad hoc development along thecarriage drive in Witley
Park is a constantpossibility thatwould, ifpermittedcompromisefuture
restoration opportunities ofthe carriage drive, LadyRachel's gardenand the
overall ambience and character ofthesite.
page 42
Witley Court
u
4.3.8 Significance: the North Park
NorthParkis important as it aUows for the onlysurviving, closepubUc views of
Witley Court. Thesplendour of St Michael's Church andtheruined Witley
Court canbe seenand appreciated in their landscape setting fromthe A443, and
areas along the Pool House Lodge Drive. Furthermore, as the Southern Parkland
(whichis the greater extent of WitleyPark) is nowunder mainlyarable
cultivation, the only survivingareas of parkland are to be found in the North Park
area. The main surviving elements of North Park are:
Front Pool
Is an important earlyelement in the landscape design originating in the
early18thcentury, andremodelled ina more naturalistic style in the early
19thcentury. Although not significant on its ownterms, thenaturalistic and
romantic landscape laid out around the Front Pool and the Wilderness in I J
the later19th centuryprovides an important contrast with theformality of
the gardens around Witley Court; Front Pool may also contain important
archaeological evidence oftheformer causeway.
The Ornamental Walks
Contain theonlysurvivingfloral elements ofthegardens near the Court
along witha large number oforiginal 19thcentury specimen tree planting
not lost in the 1938fellings; it is a quiet, contemplative andunderstated
area importantfor wildlife conservation and contains many oftheoriginal
sensual elements ofthe early design, including the cascade, the brookwith
itspools and other visual surprises along withglimpsedviews oftheCourt.
The Boathouses
The early twentieth century boathouses, designedfor the use ofthefamily
are an interestingsurvival ofearly 20th centurygarden architecture. They
make an interesting composition with Front Pool andpoint to one ofits K^_J
amenity uses.
currently the lakeside edge is inaccessible and the waUis damaged
having cleared regenerating growth, gaps in vegetation need further
underplanting to recreate a flowering backdrop to the Ornamental Walks
the new car park in the Wilderness is located on part of the site that has
lost much of its historic significance and is designed as an amenity area.
the clearings and replantings of the Wilderness around car park are
designed to be implemented over a twenty year period.
Front Pool Park lacks the animation and interest of livestock that would
havegrazed it. Parkland planting has beenre-established in this field.
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part of the area is used as open air sculpture park, and siting of the
sculpture is crucial to the understanding and enjoyment of historic
elements of the site.
the western extent of North Park, currently in private ownership, is
important visually to the setting of the lake.
the eastern area of the Wilderness, also in private ownership, is currently
unmanaged.
The FrontPool has had littlemanagementfor many years with the resultthat
some areas havesilted up. A damat theeasternendofthePool provides access
across a shallowbridgefrom thevisitorreception area to theCourt. Boththe
bridge anddam require some maintenance inthe nearfuture. The bridge may
originally have been linedbya moreformal balustrade. This shouldbe
ascertainedandifso reinstated, which wouldbe a vast improvement on the
present safety railings.
In 1998 Front Pool Bank, stretchingfrom the watersideto the Carriage Drive,
was clearedofa screenofconifers andregenerating scrub so as to reinstate the
principalvistafromthe northfront of Witley Court. Selective plantingand
ground maintenance together with the reconstruction ofthe semi-circular,
balustraded, bastionlookingout over FrontPool Bankwill bringthis area back
to its later 19thcenturyform. Howeverextending areas oflandscape
restoration does require suitablemanagement, particularly ofgrass areas.
By 1998, due tosilt accumulation inFront Pool the rustic boathouse was half
buriedand in verypoor condition, leaning to thesouth-eastwhere it was
supported bya tree. Comparison betweenphotographs taken in 1994 andthose
ofthe 1996survey demonstrated rapiddeterioration ofthe whole structure in the
two yearperiod. The decisionwas made toremoved the morefragile sections
which were put into storage. This work wasaccompanied bythe preparation of
a reconstruction drawing. Reconstruction ofthe boathousestarted inApril 1999
and was completedinJune 1999.
The underground boathouse has not beensurveyed access to the inside not
beingpossible until recently 1994. From an external examination it appears to
be ingood condition.
4.3.9 Significance: the Parkland
The parkland is significant as:
An essential part of the nation's heritage.
The historic layout, features andarchitectural composition are considered
ofhigh quality comparedwithotherparks in England as a whole. The
extensiveparklandhas a rangeofstructures relating to its sportingand
estatefunctions which are ofnational interest when considered together,
within theirparklandcontext - RedHouse, kennels byGSRepton,
Stourport Lodge, Worcester Lodge, Garden House, remnants ofDeerpark
page 44
Witley Court
fencing and thesite oftheDeer BarnandKeeper's Lodge (burnt down
1950's).
An integral component of the architectural composition of the house
The parklandprovideda settingfor thehouse. Its recentloss means that
modern views of Witley Court have been incomplete with a consequent loss
oflandscape value.
An example of a designed landscape park with medieval deer park
origins
Itprobablyexistedas a medieval deerparkpre-datingthe 19thcentury
sporting estate by somefour hundredyears.
An influential impact on the development of the surrounding area
A substantial area ofland managedas an estate, ownedand controlledby
single landownersfor generations, has hada major impact on thecultural
andsocial development ofthe adjacentlocal community
An important amenity and ecological site
Thediverse landscape/landuses andsubsequenthabitat varietyofthe
surroundingparkland is notable.
Parkland Conservation Issues:
the landscape has become visuaUyfragmented by loss of trees and
through changing agricultural usage from pastoral to arable, and has also
lost its animation by virtue of loss of Uvestock.
pools are poorly maintained, particularly the structural elements
the drives which previously gave access to the house have become
degraded and difficult to pass. The historic entrance gates have been \ /
removed and the boundaries of the lodges have been domesticated and
the historical entrances no longer have an imposing presence. The loss
of this presence does not help to discourage unauthorised visitors.
very limited pubUcaccess to parkland, though Whitley Court itself links
with local and regional footpaths.
the boundaries of the carriage drives have become domesticised and have
lost continuity and visual interest
The intensification ofagriculture andploughing up ofparklandpost-war reflects
recent economic changes. In the long term as agricultural needs change and
diversify there may be the opportunity torevert some arable areas topasture.
Meanwhile it may bepossible, through a range oflocalinitiatives toreplant
specific trees/areas ofwoodland andencourage woodland management ina
manner which will allow the parklandplanting structure tobere-established
Thefollowing specific areas are important: , '
ENGLISH HERITAGE Pa9e45
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Witley Court
Northern Parkland:
Front Pool Park originallyformed the setting to the Cascade and Front
Pools as seenfromthe A443 andPool HouseDrive, but it is now arable
landandsubject to extensive ploughing. In the long-term repairs and
restoration ofFront Pool Parkwould be ofimmediate benefit to the setting
of Witley Court andits north front. The condition ofthe eastern retaining
wall ofthe Cascade Pool is ofsome concern
Parklandto the north oftheA443 is nowa mix ofarable andpasture.
Nevertheless its roundels ofparklandplantingmake it ofsome interest as an
outer parkland landscape and the long-term replacement ofthis planting
would be of value toone ofthe main views andto the setting ofGreat Witley
and Witley Court.
Southern Parkland:
To the south of the guardianship area, the landis all arable. The outer
parklandpanorama, as seenfrom theformal gardens has been lost. It
shouldprovepossible to replant some of the belts andcopses within the
farmland to allowfor the long-term survival andreplacement ofthis
woodland structure. A considerable length ofthe Deer Fence that
surrounded theDeer Park is still inplace, althoughoverall inpoor
condition, in addition the Washing Pool and its small plantation survives.
Efforts shouldbe made to retain thesefeatures andallowfor their
conservation and management historic landscapefeatures.
Carriage Drives:
The carriage drives, the principal approaches to Witley Court, are usedby
the inhabitants oftheprivate houses along the drives as well as by the
farmer whofarms the majority of Witley Park. This means that there are
conflicts ofuse between local residents, visitors to Witley Court, the
congregation and visitors toAll Saints Church andheavyagricultural
traffic. Resolvingissues relatingto access rights, maintenance and upkeep
ofthe drive isfundamental to visitor management as well as re-instating the
character and atmosphere ofthe carriage drives throughparkland.
Lakes and Pools:
Water bodies within thepark are now in differing, private ownershipand
there is some evidence that they are slowly silting up. Theirlong-term
conservation is ofimportance in terms ofsite ecology and hydrology, as well
as in terms ofthe historic landscape.
Archaeological potential:
Little is known of the earlier medieval park. There is no record ofany
archaeological features earlier than the buildings associated withthe Court
and Church. Buried remains ofthefollowing structures could befound: the
Deer barn, the Keeper's Lodge, while the 1793 map gives an indication of
thepositions ofotherbuildings that had to be demolished to make wayfor
Witley Court
the creation ofthe Parkland. Some canbeseenonaerialphotographs
The majority ofthese areas are outside the guardianship boundary andany
progress willrely on the awareness andinitiative oflocal landowners, the
local authority andother agencies.
4.3.10 Significance: ecology &wildlife
The parkland, Court ruins andgardens aresignificant as:
Supporting a wide range of wildlife
Witley Court, the gardens andparklandaresignificantfor the range
wildlife thatis to befound there - theruins, openwaterofthelakes and
surrounding countrysideproviding a widevariety ofhabitats.
Regionally important for bats ^^
The ruins ofthe court itselfarehighly significant as a bat-roostfor 6 ofthe
resident 14 British batspecies. The ruins provide crevices andnichesfor
them tohideandmove around ina variety of orientations, according to
prevailingweather conditions. The openwaterofthewaterbodies within
thepark, especially FrontPool are important asfeeding grounds.
Containing sites of county importance for botanical interest
In addition to the bats otherprotectedspecies at Witley include badgers who
use the lawnsasforaging groundsand thesite is ofbotanical interestfor its
swamp communities, two sites being recognisedas ofcountyimportance.
One oftheprincipal threats to the balance ofthe ecology at Witley Courtwas
the disturbance ofbat roosts through ill-consideredconservationworks to the
buildings, and clearance ofroosts by over-zealous clearance ofolder trees. This
threat has been removed by stafftraining - making allaware oftheir I )
responsibilities and by thepreparation ofa long-termmanagementplanfor the
woodland areas withinEnglish Heritage's management.
Full consideration will have to be given toprotectionofbat roosts ifgreater
public access to theCourt cellars is encouraged(see RepairPlanSection2
referring to access to thebasement levels).
4.3.11 Significance: buried archaeology
Considerable archaeological investigationhas been undertakento assess the
development of the Court andthe gardens, oftenin advance of conservation
works, and the following areas are considered the most significant in termsof
their potential in providing further archaeological evidence of the site's
development and layout:
13th century Court and possible moat
some remains possible under west range andnorth courtyard.
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Parti: Significance
Rectory and associated buildings
remains can be expectedin thearea oftheConservatory, thesouth-west
terrace, andparticularly to the south ofthe terrace.
The early stables
buildings are apparent on the late 17th centurypainting. This areatothe
east ofthe Court is now covered bythe terraced above the parterre and
fountain, but remains shouldbe anticipated here.
The 18th century drive and the causeway
theburiedremains ofthedriveandcauseway maybe in directalignment to
thefront ofthe Court.
The 18th century Pavilions and screen walls
excavations have alreadyshown thatsubstantial remains ofthe eastern
building are buried beneath the ground - a similar survival should be
anticipatedfor the westernpavilion.
The medieval church
Areas ofbelow groundarchaeology arelargelyprotected byscheduling. The
statutory control inrelation toworks is consideredas adequate. Allproposals
for works should be referred to the English Heritage guardianship inspectorfor
comments.
NOTE: an archaeo-geophysical surveywas carriedout on theparterres in 1997
for English Heritage by the Bartlett Clark Consultancy. This showedmajor
anomalies eitherside oftheforecourt drive, the easternside ofwhichwas
excavatedbyHeritage Research later thatyear. This revealedremains of
substantial undergroundstructures ofearlier stable buildings. To protect these
remains it has beenagreed thatany newspecimen tree plantingwill be
positionedtoavoidthese identified areas.
page 48
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Witley Court
CONSERVATION PLAN
ENGLISH HERITAGE
Part 2: Conservation Policy
PART 2: CONSERVATION POLICY
A. GENERAL POLICIES
English Heritage's primaryduties, placeduponit by the National Heritage Act
1993 will direct the policies for WitleyCourt. These are :
Ato secure the preservation ofancient monuments andhistoric buildings in
England.
A topromote the preservation andenhancement ofthe character and
appearanceofconservation areas.
A topromote the public's enjoyment of andadvance their knowledge of
ancient monuments and historic buildings and theirpreservation
English Heritage will fulfill these by a programme of works to complete the
conservation of the buildings and gardens at Witley Court.
Overall, the primaryaimof the conservation planis to re-unitethe ruins and
gardenso that their architectural relationship is balanced and complementary to
one another. The relationship of WitleyCourt ruins to their formal gardens, and
in turn of these elements to the ornamental woodland walks, lakes and wider
landscape needto be carefully andsensitively managed so that the public can
appreciate thesevariedlandscapes. Seenand experienced together they will
compose a rich varietyof landscape type and traditional aesthetic balance. Their
beneficial reuse for public display will clarify a long-lost traditional and historic
entity which has lost clarity and been obscured over most of the 20th century.
Enhanced education facilities will assist in their interpretation and appreciation.
General pre-conditions
The ruins of Witley Court, its service ranges, and the Nesfield Gardens are a
Scheduled Ancient Monument requiring that ali works be fully documented to
comply with the Class 6 Consent procedures operated by EngUshHeritage.
Although English Heritage enjoys a Class Consent by virtue of Statutory
Instrument no 1381 (1994), works commissioned directly must nevertheless be
compatible with the normal requirements of Scheduled Monument Consent
(SMC) given to others.
This Class Consent over-rides a requirement for EngUsh Heritage to secure
Listed Building Consent (LBC) for any works. Nevertheless EngUsh Heritage
wiUdiscuss such works with the local planning authority. The Local Plan
presents constraints that the local planning authority wiUimpose (Malvern Hills
District Local Plan ConservationPolicy 17: ScheduledAncientMonuments
andotherArchaeologicalSites ofNationalImportance ; Conservation Policy 18
Development within Archaeologically Sensitive Areas)
Works undertaken under Class 6 Consent are not exemptfromBuilding
Regulations Approval and where there is a conflictbetweenthe advicegivenby
EngUsh Heritageand the requirementsof the Local Authority such conflict must
be resolved to the satisfaction of EnglishHeritage.
page 49
Witley Court
CONSERVATION PLAN Part 2: Conservation Policy
EngUshHeritage's Inspector of Ancient Monuments wiUadvise on historical and
archaeological matters, either directlyor through nominees. The Inspectors wiU
confirm any variationin Class 6 Consentin writing., and approve any Research
Design provided for Archaeological Evaluation, Assessment, or Excavation as
required by the Planning Authority under PPG 16.
In additionEnglishHeritagehas a dutyto attendto Health& Safetymatters. AU
works wiU be carriedout in accordance withEngUsh Heritage Health& Safety
PoUcies, and Health& SafetyPlans wiU be preparedfor aU works, regardless of
scale and duration.
AU poUcies wiU link in with the framework of guidancelaid out by MalvernHUls
District Plan (Deposit DraftMalvern Hills District Local Plan, February 1995).
Relevant poUciesare cross- referenced where apphcable (MHDLP)
Al Conservation policies
Conservation of the historic buildings fabric, the designed historic landscape and
associated archaeological deposits is necessary to sustain the intrinsic qualities of
the site for future generations. This wiU be achieved through the foUowing
poUcies:
Al.l AUworks to the historic fabric or landscape wiUbe recorded both before
and after to an exemplary standard by appropriate recording methods to
the accepted professional standard and relate to existing digital and
topographical surveys.
A1.2 Archaeological work : all ground works wiUbe carried out under the
direct supervision of a nominated archaeologist and wiUconform to the
processes defined mManaging Archaeological Projects (2nded
London, 1992).
A1.3 All decisions about repairs or restoration to both the historic fabric and
thelandscape will bemade from aninformed standpoint, based on (s )
research and interpretation
A1.4 Opportunities will be taken and developedto enhance the landscape and
setting of Witley Court, consistent with its pubUc display and status as a
major monument. This wUl be aUied to the presentation of a uniqueand
importantcomplexof buildings and gardens displaying the best
conservation practice.
A1.5 In contrast with the conservationapproach adopted prior to the 1990s
which was aimed at consoUdating the structure, future repairs wiU
comply with TheRepair ofHistoric Buildings: Advice onPrinciples
andMethods', by Christopher Brereton, EngUsh Heritage 1991, andon
the guidance outlined inPPGs 15 and 16. These main principles ofrepair
are:
Al.5.1Analysing historic development. Archaeological and architectural
investigation and interpretation has given us a thorough understanding of
the buildings. This has been allied with an assessment of the site in a {^_J
ENGLISH HERITAGE Page 50
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CONSERVATION PLAN Part 2: Conservation Policy
wider historic context. These studies wiU, where appropriate continue
during the course of the works. AU records, including those of any
alterations made wiU be preserved.
AL5.2 Analysing the causes ofdefects. Ananalysis of the historical
development of thebuilding and aninvestigation of thenature and
condition of its materials has been undertaken.
AL5.3Adoptingproven technique. In carrying out anyworks the aim
wiU be to matchexistingmaterials andmethods of construction, in order
topreserve the appearance andhistoric integrity of thebuildings.
Exceptions willbe considered where theexisting fabric hasfailed
because of inherent defects of designor incorrect specification of
materials, rather than fromneglect of maintenance or becauseit has
/*-> completed its expected life. New methods andtechniques wiU only be
' used where traditional alternatives cannot be identified, and where they
have proved themselves over a long period. Indeciding whether toadopt
newmethods andtechniques it wiU be necessary to balance the benefitto
the building against the degree of damage causedto its appearance,
historic integrity and fabric.
Al.5,4 Truth tomaterials. Repairs wiU be executedhonestly, with no
attempt at disguise or artificial age, but willnot be unnecessarily
obtrusive or unsympathetic. Whereappropriate workswiU be dated
discreetly.
Al.5.5 Removal oflater alterations. Additions and alterations, including
earUer repairs, are of importance for the part theyplay in the cumulative
history of a building or monument. There wiU be a strong presumption in
favour of their retention. However where features are of no intrinsic
value in themselves, but seriously disrupt the overall architectural interest
and aesthetic value of the building, they wiU be removed. The full
^s\ implications ofdoing this will be appraised and carefully considered in
advance, by balancingthe potential architecturaland aestheticgains
against the loss of historic integrity.
Al.5.6 Restoration oflostfeatures. Missing building elements wiUbe
replaced where they are of structural significance important to the design.
Non-structural elements will also be reinstated provided that sui~cient
evidence exists for accurate replacement with no loss of historic fabric.
Speculativereconstruction will not be undertaken.
Al.5,7 Safeguardingthefuture. Works will be undertaken appropriately
and sympatheticaUy in order to secure the future of Witley Court,
keeping further repair requirements to a minimum.
A2 Management policies
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The followingpoUcies have been identified in relation to a site open to the public
(these are also covered withinMHDLP: Conservation Policy 18 Development
withinArchaeologically SensitiveAreas)
Witley Court
CONSERVATION PLAN Part 2:Conservation Policy
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Al.l Provide appropriate visitoraccess, signage andparking faciUties
(MHDLP Conservation Policy16. Reuse ofLarge Country Houses :
adequate vehicularparking must not adversely affect the setting of the
building, and ifnecessary should include adequate screening and
landscaping. Vehicular access to the site, directional signage and
consideration of the capacity ofthe surrounding road network to safely
accommodating anticipated vehicular traffic without detriment to the
character ofthe location anditssurroundings, are all considerations.)
A2.2 Provide appropriate security measures associated withcontrolling and
managing access, in order to safeguardthe site to and estabUsh a
considered relationship with neighbours.
A2.3 Ensurethat directional or advertisement signs do not adversely affectthe
character, appearance or the setting of the braiding andits surroundings
(MHDLP Conservation Policy 16. Reuse ofLarge Country Houses) I )
A2.4 Improve visitor access to the gardensfollowing the originalhistorical
routes, and focussing appreciation on WitleyCourt, its gardens and the
surrounding countryside, including appropriate and considered access for
the disabled.
A2.5 Ensure compliance with current health & safety regulations.
A2.6 Ensure adequate staffing levels, provide suitable staff faciUties and
training to enable staff to meet their duties in an effective and efficient
manner. Managing Witley Court, the gardens and landscape with an
awareness of the responsibilities involved wiUhelp to secure it for future
generations.
A2.7 Provide information about Witley Court accessible to a wide range of
visitors with various needs/levels of perception.
A2,8 Ensure that the presentation of Witley Court embraces the different {^_J
aspects of its makeup and history. Ensure that presentation is integrated
to include the church, parkland and its estate as weUas its most
significant, individual elements.
A2.9 Promote activities and events which wiU enhance the site in its relevant
local, regional, national and European contexts.
A3 Partnership policies
A3.1 English Heritage intend to worktogether withthe parishioners of Great
Witley to ensure that boththeruins of Witley Court andtheParish
Church remain accessible to visitors, so that they can appreciate the
history of association between thetwo buildings andtheir relationship.
A3.2 Partnerships with organisations such as Pershore CoUege of Horticulture
andother relevant organisations will be developed andstrengthened.
New partnerships will beexplored and where suitable, developed.
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B. POLICIES RELATING TO MAIN BUILDINGS & STRUCTURES
Bl General policies
Bl.l A Class 6 Consent Certificate must be secured before any works are
commissioned within the house, service courts and the Scheduled
Ancient Monument area. AUvariations to proposed works must be
confirmed beforehand in writing.
B1.2 A cyclical and planned maintenance programme wiUbe estabUshed.
B1.3 Full analytical recording wiUpreceded all conservation work in line with
adopted recording methods. EngUsh Heritage wiUseek to disseminate
the various studies resulting, as an exemplary case study of a
multi-period great house.
B1.4 In general and where possible, loose architectural detaUswUl be re-fixed
in their original location. Where damaged masonry remains in situ it wiU
be skilfuUyrepaired by piecing in new matching stone. Where this is
impossible, masonry details wiUbe replicated and the damaged masonry
wiUbe placed in a curated store. This is of importance where statuary
from the fountains which is of a high artistic value is concerned.
BL5 There will be a presumption against any development at Witley Court
which would:
have an adverse effect on the character or appearance of the listed
braiding
dominate the Usted building in scale or situation
adversely affect the listed building by its density, form, materials or
colour
interrupt existing important open spaces or important views that
contribute to the setting of the Ustedbuilding
require removal of trees, landscape features or other curtilage
features that contribute to the character or appearance of the Usted
building (MHDLP Conservation Policy 11. The SettingofListed
Buildings).
B2 The main buildings of the Court
B2.1 Conservation wiU be designedso as not to pre-emptfuture optionsfor
works to the Court which could involve its re-roofing, fenestration or
subsequent restoration, should that prove possible.
B2.2 In conserving WitleyCourt for pubUc display, the policyof conservation
'as found' wiU be continued andthe maximum amountof plaster and
timber wiU be retained. Wherethe braiding is structurally sound,
temporary blockings to doorways etc. whichwere insertedpost 1937
wiU be removed.
B2.3 In managing and maintainingWitleyCourt as a ruin there will be no
attempt to impart anartificial atmosphere of romanticism by, for
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Witley Court
CONSERVATION PLAN Part 2: Conservation Policy ,
example clothing the ruins with ivy.
B2.4 A major element in the display of the Court wiU be the reconstruction of
its sky-line and enhancing its appearance as a landscape monument. This
will involve three specific areas of building work:
The attic storeyofthe east wall ofthe west range which was wilfully
feUed at the point in time whenthe site was beingtakeninto
compulsory guardianship, will be reconstructed in new Bath Stone
ashlar, and the recovered window cases reset and backed with
brickwork.
Thesouth and east walls ofthe damaged east tower will be rebuilt in
brick and cased above the roof line in Bath Stone, using all
undamaged, recovered detail where possible. Elsewhere any badly
damaged details will be used as a template. i \
The roofparapets will be completed. Original urns wiUbe returned
to the parapet and, where urns are missing cast stone repUcaurns wiU
be used to complete the architectural effect and rhythm of the sky
line.
B3 The kitchen court and the stable courtyard
B3.1 A plan assessing aUthe conservation work to be done wiUbe prepared,
linked to a clear strategy for the eventual use of this area.
B3.2 Seek beneficial reuse of the range braidings:
B3.1.I Repair or renew using traditional roof claddings those buildings
presently roofed with inappropriate corrugated sheets
B3.1.2 Construct roofing and flooring taken down from the cottage and
lodge K^J
B3.3 Retain the essentiaUyruined character of the space and avoid rebuilding
structures which have been totally demoUshed
B3.4 Where appropriate re-introduce coUapsedmaterial
B4 St Michael and AH Angels Church & churchyard
B4.1 Consult and work with the Parochial Church Council to ensure that
positive benefits arise for the congregation and visitors to the church.
B4.2 Work towards a balanced visitor management & site interpretation
strategyand resolveissues relatingto cas parking and access.
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C. POLICIES RELATING TO THE GARDENS
CI Generally
Cl.l A Class 6 Consent Certificate must be secured before any works are
commissioned within the parterres and other gardens areas lying within
the Scheduled Ancient Monument area. AUvariations to proposed works
must be confirmed beforehand in writing.
C1.2 EngUsh HeritagewiU endeavourto safeguard and protect the nucleus of
the historic landscape design by removingincongruous and unsightly
visitor facilities from the Court and its Gardens
C2 The Nesfield Gardens
C2,l The generalprinciple of repairwill be to reinstate or repairthe spatial
framework and layout of the parterre design, by reinstating surviving
architectural elements on site or in store. Structural planting (i.e.trees and
shrubs which delineate the designed layout, geometry and spaces) wiUbe
replanted but not the detailed planting.
C2.1.1 Paths and garden steps wiU be reconstructedafter prior
excavation or evaluation. Where possible loose architectural
material in store will be reset as appropriate, otherwise matching
materials wiU be used.
C2.1.2 Kerbs wiUbe exposed, and repaired or reset as necessary where
they are part of the 19thcentury garden layout, this includes any
edgings held in store.
C2.2 Where it is proposed to replace garden fiuniture this wiUonly be done
where it can be traced off site and definitely identified to a Witley Court
provenance. It wiUbe acquired, copied, cast, or otherwise repUcated as is
appropriate to the object in question and the replacement will be put in
the exact location of the lost original.
C2.2.1 Where missing garden furniture cannot be traced, and only
photographic evidence for its form exists, it will not be
replicated.
C2.2.2 A programme of replanting wiUbe foUowed to ensure future
replacement of specimentrees and shrubs, paying especial
attentionto their functionas spatial elements of the gardens
design.
C3 The fountains
C3.1 The fountains wiU berepaired tofull working order, sothatthey
retain their original function as focal, monumental features in the
gardens.
C3.2 Restoration of the fountains will payspecific attention to water
page 55
Witley Court
CONSERVATION PLAN
ENGLISH HERITAGE
management conservation.
C4 The balustrade & ha-ha
Thebalustrade andha-haprovided a tangible divide between theparkand
garden. In some areas it provided a stop for the eye, a role it shared with the
architectural plantingand the GoldenGates. This is particularly evidentwithin
the South Parterre.
C4.1 The long-term aim wiU be to restore the balustrade where it serves the
purpose of defining the distant views of the garden, particularlythe East
and North Parterres.
C4,2 Re-use recovered elements where possible to reformthe boundary of the
garden to ensure the safety of visitors within the garden, and help with
site security. Any reconstructed sections are to be constructed with
precisely the same detail as the original work, in matching Bath stone,
making full use of the site archive.
C4.3 Negotiate with the neighbouring landowner to provide a maintenance
strip around the balustraded walls of about 3 to 4 metres of mown grass.
This wiUreplace arable crops and a narrow belt of unmanaged taUherbs
and compensate for the loss of grassland within the restored gardens
C4.4 Obtain a record survey of the existing gates. Assess works to construct
replicas of the form of the Golden Gates, but not the detail.
C5 The garden buildings
C5.1 Carry out essential repairs and conservation works to the garden
braidings in line with the policies outlined above.
C6 The Western Gardens
C6.1 Seek to secure or influence the management of this area, which includes
Lady Rachel'sGarden, as a potentiallyvaluable visitor resourcefor those
visitingboth the Church, Witley Court and the Parterre Gardens.
C6.2 Seek to iniluence the repair of the garden to its period of greatest
significance
D. POLICIES RELATING TO THE NORTH PARK
Dl Comply with aU engineering and maintenance recommendations for the
dam structure as required by the ReservoirsAct.
D2 Fishing inFront Pool wiU be aUowed but restricted todesignated parties
under anegotiated fishing lease. The levels and activities ofanglers will
bemonitored reguiarly with a view tocontrolling the level of activity so
that it does not conflict withaccess bythevisiting pubUc, conservation
of thehistoric landscape or theecology anddiversity of wildlife.
page 56
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D3 EstabUsh a regular programme to monitor the waterquality andsilt in
Front Pool, so as to determine whetherthereis a problem withsiltation,
and its extent. It will only be possible to understandthis over a number
of years.
D4 PubUc access will be permitted around FrontPool, although it wiU be
informal. The lakeside walks wiU be managedto aUow countryside
recreation access, thereby contrasting withthe more formal nature of the
gardens around Witley Court.
D5 The landscape management plan will be implemented, with regular
annual reviews of progress. It wiU be re-assessed regularly, ona five year
rolling programme toascertain that objectives are being met and appraise
the effectiveness of bothpoUcies andpressures relating to pubUc access.
D6 Ensure that the restored views to and from the Court are fixUy
recognised and maintained, and ensure screen planting develops inthe
way it has been planned
D7 Carry outanengineering investigation ofthe underground boathouse and
undertake anyotherminorrepairs etcrequired; allowing for limited
visitor access and use.
D8 Ensure that adopted 20 year woodland management planis adhered to.
D9 Aim to manage grass paddock throughgrazing, as opposedto
mechanical means, paying attentionto the potential for increasing sward
diversity.
D10 Develop a poUcy for exhibitingand displayingsculpturepaying attention
to the needs of the historic landscape by balancing the choice and
location of sculptures and the aesthetic sensitivities of the designed
historic landscape
Dll Seek to secure appropriate management of the western and eastern
extensions of North Park in order to improve the setting of the
WUderness and lake.
E. POLICIES RELATING TO THE PARKLAND
El EngUshHeritage wiUseek to encourage restoration of parkland between
Front Pool and the A443 and the South Park where it can be seen from
the house and garden so as to re-instate the principal views to and from
Witley Court.
El.l Elsewhere to support and advise on the suitabilityof initiatives
instigatedby local landowners, the local authorityor other
agencies, with the aim of replanting the framework of structural
planting around and within the park.
E1.2 Encourage the conservation andmanagement of the numerous
pools andwater bodies in thepark, which areimportant for
page 57
Witley Court
CONSERVATION PLAN Part 2: Conservation Policy . )
ecological diversity as well as being historic landscape features.
E2 EngUsh Heritage wiU seek toresolve issues relating tothe management
of thecarriage drive with local residents and users, soastomanage
visitortraffic withan awareness of the security measures desirable for
the conservation of the site.
E2.1 English Heritage wiU encourage restoration of theimposing
presence of the entrance lodges
E2.2 EngUshHeritage wiUseek to reinstate the character of the
carriage drive avenues
E3 Promote and sustain good relationships with the landowners and
occupiers of the former Witley CourtParkbykeeping themfully
informed ofEngUsh Heritage's activities, liaising fuUy over shared I J
faciUties such as the carriageways and by offering advice and support for
their own conservation activities.
E4 Support and encourage the adoption of agri-environmental schemes by
the agricultural landowners, with the aimof returning arable fields in
critical locations to pasture or non productivegrassland in permanent
set-aside, establishing conservation headlands around arable margins,
with set-aside strips in key landscape locations and replanting woodland
belts and parkland trees. AUof these elements might be incorporated in a
whole farm countryside stewardship scheme.
E5 Encourage the owners and angling tenants of the pools to adopt active
conservation measures under the advice of Environment Agency staff or
professional ecologists.
E6 Support rural access initiatives and the estabUshment of walking or
cycling routes passing through the park.
E7 Offer support to any associations of landowners who wish to
commission conservation and maintenance work jointly and to
landowners to help themmaintainand restorehistoric structures within
the parkland.
E8 Encourage the management of post 1938 field boundaries to reduce
visual impact andto helprecreate parkland character. (MHDC
Landscape Policy 10Landscape Features)
F. POLICIES RELATING TO ECOLOGY ANDWILDLIFE
Inaddition English Heritage recognises itsresponsibiUties toa considered and
careful ecological management ofthe wildlife resources at Witley Court. In
particular:
Fl Manage the existing variety ofhabitats so as to retain the variety ofbat
roosts andtheir food sources, whichmakeWitleyCourt one of the
outstanding habitats in Worcestershire for alarge number of bat species. V, )
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( ) CONSERVATION PLAN Part 2: Conservation Policy
F2 Retain and enhance the Special WildUfe Sites identified at Witley Court
F3 Mitigate against any long-term effects on wildlife through consideration
of the effects of conservation works before they are implemented.
F4 Enhance the general wildlife habitat value of the surrounding landscape
by encouraging and supporting schemes whichwiU help to restore the
ecological diversity of the former deer park.
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CONSERVATION PLAN
ENGLISH HERITAGE
Appendix 1
APPENDIX 1
BIBLIOGRAPHY AND SOURCES
This appendix lists the major references relating to WitleyCourt. Sources quoted
in individual HAS Reports such as museumand Record Office references are not
repeated here. A list of maps mentioned in the text is also included.
Maps and Plans
1732 C. Price
1772 I. Taylor
1793 G.Young
1817 R Holland
1832
1837
1839
1884
1890
1938
Survey of Great Witley Manor
Worcestershire (1 inch to 1 mile)
Plan of the Farms in Great Witley of the Hon Thomas,
Lord Foley
Map of Witley Park belonging to the Rt Hon Lord Foley
Ordnance Survey (1 inch to 1 mile)
Parish of Great Witley (6 chains to an inch)
Tithe map
Ordnance Survey (1st Ed. 1:2500)
Estate Plan
Map included with sale particulars
Published sources
Brown, M. and Stansfield, G., TheFountains of Witley Court, 1992
Colvin H., A Biographical dictionary ofBritishArchitects 1600-1840, A1995
"Evans, S., Nesfield's Monster Work, 1994
^Gray, R., Witley Court, (EngUsh Heritage Guide, 1997)
Harris, J., 'CR CockeriU's 'Ichnographica Domestica', Architectural Hist, xiv, 28
^Hewlings, R., Witley Court, Great Witley (typescript)
Jenkins, S.J., Witley Court: Aninterpretation of its interior arrangements, 1996
-Pardoe, B., Witley Court, 1986
Summerson, J., The Lifeand Works ofJohn Nash, Architect, 1980
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CONSERVATION PLAN Appendix 1
^ Thorn, F & C, Domesday Book: Vol 16, Worcestershire, 1982.
Walker, R O, Witley, Worcestershire, 1985; reprint 1990.
Country Life Articles: 17 Aug 1897, 126-8;
' 8June 1945, 992-5;
15 June 1945, 1036-39
ResearchReports commissioned by EngUsh Heritage:
Archaeology
HerefordArchaeology Series preparedby the Cityof HerefordArchaeology
Unit.
f/0mt\ HAS 87 The medieval undercroft: Adetailed analytical survey ofthe
undercroft and the loose stones associated with the structure. (October 1990)
HAS 92 Assessment: An assessment of research, survey and analysis
work to date and suggestionsfor further work. It includes a gazetteer of
previously publishedworkon Witley. (November 1990)
HAS 172 West wing: A survey and detailed report on the development and
datingof the various stages of development of the west wing. (April 1993)
HAS 214 South-west wing : A survey and detailed report on the
development and dating of the various stages of development of the south-west
wing. (September 1994)
^ HAS 215 Landscape survey-north : An archaeological landscape survey of
the area to the north of Witley Court. (July 1994)
HAS 232 The link block : A survey and detailed report on the link block
f^^) between the main Court building and the church. (January 1995)
HAS 235 Assessment of the architectural stonework : Phase 1 of a fidl
examination of the loose stonework at Witley Court. (January 1995)
HAS 255 Recording the loose architectural stone : Phase 2, providing a
record of aUthe loose stone and its position on paUets. (September 1995)
HAS 269 The stables and western gatehouse : A survey and detailed report
on the development and dating of the south wing of the stable court and the
western gatehouse. (January 1996)
HAS 271 The proposed roofs of 1837 : Plans, specifications, and an
estimate for roofing work in 1837 - A brief report. (February 1996)
^HAS 275 Landscape survey - south ofthe Court (February 1996)
v HAS 316 The Boathouse - a survey and description of the rusticated
J*0**) boathouse (May 1997)
ENGLISH HERITAGE
Witley Court
CONSERVATION PLAN Appendix 1 , ]
ENGLISH HERITAGE
u
HAS 350 Archaeological excavation of the bathroom in the east wing
basement (February 1998)
HAS 354 Archaeological Excavation in veterinarv's room in the stable
range (March 1998)
Heritage Research : Nottingham University
Heald, S.P., & McGee, C.A., Witley Court: the excavations 1996
Heald, S.P., & McGee, C.A., Witley Court: the excavations 1997
^Bartlett, A., Witley Court: Report on archaeogeophysical survey 1997
Historical Research
Hughes, P., Witley Court Gardens, Apictorial history, 1997 I J
Hughes, P., Witley Court Gardens, The Conservatory, Winter Garden&
Michaelangelo Pavilion, 1997
HadweU, C.P, Turret clock in Great Witley Court Church, Proposed
Restoration
Landscape and conservation
^ Donald W. InsaU and Associates, Witley Court Ruins - Their conservation and
display to thepublic, 1980
Hereford & Worcester County Council, Access to Witley Court: Feasibility
Study, 1994
Nicol, Jones & Lomax, Witley Court, NorthPark&Parterre Gardens:
LandscapeRepair&Management Plan, 1998
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