Hebden Bridge Civic Trust 3rd March 2009 Conservation Areas, Appraisals & the Historic Environment Chris Edwards & Kate Peach Conservation Section Calderdale MBC

Conservation What?  The historic environment - buildings, areas, structures and spaces Why?  Important finite resource, local history, distinctiveness, special places How?  The local Council - using legislation & guidance - often via the planning process - PP, LBC, CAC

WHAT IS A CONSERVATION AREA ?...defined in the legislation as an ‘area of special architectural or historic interest the character or appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance’ Section 69 of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act Each conservation area is an interaction of buildings, spaces and the living environment.

TYPES OF CONSERVATION AREAS Dense workers’ terraces and mills - Hebden Bridge, Sowerby Bridge, Todmorden

Model settlements - Akroydon, Copley, People’s Park

Historic town centres - Halifax, Hebden Bridge, Todmorden, Elland, Mytholmroyd, Sowerby Bridge

Farmsteads and villages - Lumbutts & Mankinholes, Heptonstall, Luddenden, Millbank & Cottonstones, Stainland, Warley

What Extra Protection do Conservation Areas Have ? Gives greater control in relation to development and design Increases our ability to resist inappropriate development - required to preserve or enhance the character or appearance Introduces control over the demolition of unlisted buildings Protects trees from felling and pruning without consent

So Giving….. Better protection for historically important buildings, townscapes and landscapes

More certainty that the special character and qualities of the area will be taken into account when planning applications are under consideration

ADDITIONAL RESTRICTIONS IN CONSERVATION AREAS Consent required for: demolition of buildings larger than 115 cubic metres certain works which would be classed as permitted development elsewhere, eg. demolition of boundary walls dormer windows external cladding certain sizes of extension illuminated advertisements satellite dishes on the front of properties felling or lopping of trees

... But Conservation Area Legislation has Limitations... It does not mean that there will be no change It does not automatically introduce controls over replacement windows and doors, and paint colours It does not give controls over works by statutory undertakers - but may influence outcomes

Although windows and doors in unlisted houses may be altered without consent, we would encourage using traditional designs and materials.

Hebden Bridge Conservation Area A town of unique character & history Many important buildings A vibrant community

Some Key Characteristics Historic town centre Dense terraces - over and under dwellings - response to topography River, road, canal, rail - all influencing development over time Recent history & rebirth

CONSERVATION AREA CHARACTER APPRAISALS A Conservation Area Character Appraisal will: –define and analyse the special character of an area –provide a basis for decisions on planning applications –assist in the development of local plan policies –help local people to understand, appreciate and protect the special character of their area.

A Conservation Area Character Appraisal will identify: important historic buildings and features important townscape features important landscape features important qualities of the area such as views distinctive character zones and their special characteristics positive and negative attributes of an area and opportunities for enhancement - the Management Plan.

BOUNDARY REVIEW An important part of the Appraisal process Are there areas which should be in the Conservation Area? Are there areas which should not be in?

The Management Plan proposals for the preservation and enhancement of the Conservation Area required by legislation supported and promoted by English Heritage a key part of the Appraisal process an important tool for the future of the Conservation Area.

We Need You ! Civic Trust Local history groups Local historians Residents Community groups Businesses

Listed Buildings What are they?

Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest As defined in the Act.

Grades of Listed Buildings Grade I - about 4% Grade II* - about 4% Grade II- about 92% But All Are Special !

What is Listed Building Consent? The Act states : –LBC required for the demolition of a listed building; –for any works for its alteration or extension in a manner which would affect its character as a building of special architectural or historic interest; Applies to all works - internal and external.

Architectural Interest Characteristic of a school of design Outstanding composition Link in chain of architectural development - including landmark buildings of the mechanical and industrial revolution Accidental or designed group

Historic Interest Sociological interest - cottages, farm houses, great houses - regional styles - not just individual building but the context - planned architectural groups, showing how society functioned as well as history of architecture. Linked to individuals or events

Group Value May be greater than the individual parts! Note - Sentimental interest is not a reason for listing

“A dog is for life not just for Christmas” - RSPCA A listed building is for the benefit and enjoyment of people in the future - not just for its current owner !

Any Questions ?