Buildings Appraisal at Beaford Mill, Beaford, Torridge, Devon

The historic building appraisal site visit was conducted by E. Wapshott on Monday 31st October 2022. This work follows the guidelines in CIfA's Standard and Guidance for the Archaeological Investigation and Recording of Standing Buildings or Structures (2020) and Historic England's Understanding Historic Buildings: A Guide to Good Recording Processes (2016). The discussion of the setting follows the approach outlined in the appropriate guidance (DoT guidance and Historic England 2015). The building range can be both converted and enhanced with the right scheme, and a more sympathetic, conservation led approach is preferred by the current owners. The principle of development was set as a precedent in 2005 when an earlier scheme was approved. Key developmental 'guidelines', however, should be established straight away, i.e., minimising opening in historic facades unless necessary and ensuring the character of those openings echoes the working heritage of the building. This building must always maintain its visual narrative as a 'Mill', rather than a 'house'. Another guideline would be the preservation in situ of the mill stones on the first floor and surviving timber frame on the ground floor and wheel and pulley system in the attic of Building 1. There is flexibility in introducing partitions in the loft space, particularly in Building 2, but also in Building 1 and some careful partitions or zoning of spaces may also be possible in other areas; consultation with the conservation officer would be required. Once an agreed scheme has been determined, a considered impact assessment can highlight what detailed further work may be needed to mitigate and facilitate works. It is envisaged that with a building of this quality and age and with high archaeological potential some further valuable information may be gathered by monitoring and to undertake more targeted building recording, as has been done successfully on the wider property in the past.