Heritage Assessment at Land at Chesterfield Royal Hospital

Desk based Assessment Having considered both the impact of the proposed development on the surrounding heritage assets, and their setting; the significance of impact is assessed as slight. The GRP's are the most intrusive element of the proposals, due to their size. They will mostly be masked from heritage assets by intervening foliage. It may be beneficial to add some planting to surround the installations, to soften their effect on the surrounding landscape, providing that this does not interfere with the operation of the solar array. Further discussion around the chosen colour may also be beneficial. The GRP's will mostly be visible from the rear of Chesterfield Hospital, particularly from the rear car park and landscaped areas, and also from the upper storeys of the hospital. This would of course draw attention to these installations, rather than masking them. However, installing art that represents the nature of the area on these installations, specifically those elevations facing the hospital, might provide points of interest to hospital patients and those employed at the hospital. It is advised that the 'Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire Joint Arts Development Strategy' should be consulted if this course is taken. Further discussion with Planning Officer's is also suggested.