42 C O N T E X T 1 3 3 : M A R C H 2 0 1 4 This first positive step was the key to ensuring a successful resolution. It enabled proper recording of what fabric remained either in its original location or as a dismembered, often charred item in the debris that might be capable of reinstatement or providing vital information for producing a replica. The careful labelling and storage of items ranging from balusters, pieces of panelling and cornices to ceiling beams and even complete dormer windows was undertaken. The importance of proper survey, examination and recording of damaged items can not be over emphasised. While the occupants, who may have lost their life’s possessions, will find it difficult to accept this concept, a fire can be looked on as the beginning of a new chapter. Damage, as occurred in Harwich, affords further opening up and a glimpse of how the building evolved, which is valuable where the list descriptions are not particularly thorough. It can suggest re-evaluation of the significance of the heritage asset.AtWest Street some early structural features such as tie beams and bridging joists were later reused in their original locations with assistance from supporting steelwork. It was felt important to salvage these elements even where they were to be hidden by internal finishes. At 30West Street the panelling in the lower rooms concealed evidence of recent rebuilding, suggesting that the panelling itself was not as old as previously thought. In the rear range of the double pile arrangement substantial timber framing on a flank wall was now visible, suggesting the presence of a frame of a similar or possibly earlier date in the front range. There was no readily justifiable reason to remove undamaged panelling, but the owner of number 30 wished to examine the extent of harm to the south flank wall that might have occurred through water penetration. Controversially he wanted to reconstruct the outer wall in brick.This stood about ten centimetres from the face of a neighbouring late-20th-century block of flats, and the narrow gap made it almost impossible to repair or maintain either the timber frame or render from the outside. Certainly the upper south gable was burned beyond repair, but the prospect of the loss of potentially historic frame lower down, that might have survived undamaged, was unacceptable from a conservation aspect, although it was considered essential by the owner.The significance of the historic features that had endured had perhaps increased after other historic fabric had been lost. Fortunately this issue was resolved when investigation revealed that the lower wall had already been rebuilt in softwood frame, probably in the 1970s as part of one of the first restoration initiatives in Harwich. A replacement brick wall was therefore accepted. Another issue that commonly arises in post-fire discussions is whether like-for-like reinstatement is in the long-term interests of the building, especially where the fire has presented an opportunity to reverse recent changes, such as the insertion of inappropriate windows, and the use of modern plaster or render. At Harwich, unfortunately, there was no extra funding available to cover enhancement rather than basic reinstatement. For the heritage advisor, as the final arbiter, empathy and practicality as well as conservation principles will often inform decisions before any reinstatement proposals can be formulated, when the necessary listed building applications are being submitted and during the progress of works. The competitive tendering process led to the appointment of a local company, Rose Builders, as contractors for most of the project, although one owner’s insurance cover was not sufficient to finance the internal work. The houses were ready for reoccupation in autumn 2013, and now present a crisp but mellow face toWest Street. Harwich has recovered a heritage asset and this part of its townscape has been revitalised. The town certainly deserves it. The challenge of handling fire and its repercussions is not simply a question of saving a damaged structure. It is also a process of re-evaluating a building, its role in the wider urban composition and addressing how again it might serve its users and the whole community. Michael Munt has worked as a conservation and urban design consultant in local authorities and in private practice. Between 2005 and 2012 he was a historic areas adviser in the East of England office of English Heritage. 30West Street: remnants of a stair balustrade informing repair and replication Repairs to joinery in the hallway at 30West Street, including a replica archway
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