Planning to Save Our Heritage
A Talk by Paul Jackson and Liz Mayle of SHDC
As Head of the department, Paul Jackson opened the talk by explaining the role of Development Control and the rules which govern their work. Design should be of good quality, reflect local character and protect buildings which are deemed to be of historic interest. At the same time, the aim is to promote economic vitality: finding a balance is often a challenge.
A significant part of Development Control is to protect the character and appearance of Conservation Areas and Historic Buildings - not just Listed Buildings. Inappropriate advertisements are not permitted, however, the rules are quite complex. Enforcement is quite cumbersome and is a very lengthy process, with the right of attention of the Development Control Team. They rely upon local people to be their eyes and ears and to let them know where changes have been made without consent.
Many of us have complained about the number of food take-aways coming to the town. However, planning permission must be granted unless there is "material reason to refuse". So we must show that these food outlets would be harmful to the vitality of the town centre or the local amenity. This is where we need to design the Parish Plan. Taking London's Oxford Street and Regent Street as examples, Paul explained that by simply determining that these would remain primarily as retail areas, no new food outlets have been permitted. These are all tucked away in side streets. So we need to help the Parish Council determine our Parish Plan and all future decisions will be determined by this structure. It is in our own best interests to formulate a design which suits our purposes, so please consider volunteering your services.
Paul handed over to Conservation Expert, Liz Mayle, who gave a delightful overview of our once "smart little town". Sadly, our historic environment is in poor condition and compares badly with the rest of the district. A great deal survives and can be restored to its former glory. Holbeach has 29 listed buildings which comprise some 40 houses, as a terrace is counted as one building. We have one listed telephone box and two milestones. All Saints Church is Grade I listed and features in "One Thousand Best Churches" by Simon Jenkins.
We have many good examples of Georgian properties and, all in all, the town could be really attractive. Liz has put in a bid for funds from the PSICA (Partnership Schemes in Conservation Areas) which could release £120,000 over the next 3 years. Lets hope she is successful! This could be our big chance to make a difference and turn things around for Holbeach. But remember, it is our voice which matters; if we want it badly enough and shout loudly enough, we can make it happen.