The boundary wall around Bushy House's courtyard is set to be repaired and replaced as the brickwork is at "risk of collapse", according to a planning proposal.

The top 0.5-1 metre of the boundary wall is said to be in poor condition with the timber lean-to structure is also said to be in a "dilapidated condition". 

The document sets out the plan to dismantle the wall, attempting to retain as many of the original bricks as possible. 

It admits where this may not be possible, "replacement bricks will be matched to the existing". 

Internal face of the courtyard wall. (Photo: Richmond Council)

The proposal, put forward by the National Physical Laboratory, states the works are "essential maintenance/ health and safety repairs to ensure the building is maintained in good conditions." 

The Grade II listed building is claimed to be one of the nation's historic assets, situated within Bushy Park (itself a Grade I listed area of Special Historical Interest).

The design document states the boundary wall is a later, modernised addition to the original building. It reads: "However the wall does contribute to the setting of the building."

The proposal states the timber lean-to structure will be completely removed to install brick buttresses to "provide retaining wall support".

It adds the alterations will have a "low impact" on the overall significance of the heritage asset.

The document cites the inclusion of Heritage consultants from the Local Authority and Historic England to supervise trial samples to ensure the works are completed to a "high-standard".

Additionally, the document says the team will adopt a "conservation ethos to retain as much of the original building fabric as possible".

The contractors selected for the projected will be asked to "demonstrate their experience and record of working o similar grade II buildings" as well as workers requiring "high degrees of sensitivity" to understand the heritage of the asset. 

It clarifies: "There will be no change to the historic significance or character of the building as a result of the works."

The document details: "An area of the wall has a noticeable bulge which has been caused by an adjacent tree. The tree has been cut down and the brickwork now needs to be made good. 

"The wall will be cleaned with superheated water system (Doff or ThermaTech), which will help remove the modern paint coverings to the internal face of the wall."

"Both sides of the wall are to be fully repointed; removing the modern cement based pointing and renewing with lime based pointing."

The application was validated 31 July and James Phillips has been assigned as officer. Neighbourhood consultation is being prepared.