Wyre Forest District Adopted Local Plan, January 2004

HERITAGE

Heritage Aim

8.1 The key aim of the Local Plan in relation to Heritage is:

“to safeguard and enhance the distinctive historic environment of the District.”

Heritage Objectives

8.2 To further this aim, the Heritage objectives of the Local Plan are:

Objective 32: Conservation Areas
To preserve and enhance conservation areas, and the District's listed buildings.

Objective 33: Local Distinctiveness
To safeguard the particular characteristics of the District's urban and rural environments that are unique, or commonly associated with the District.

Objective 34: Conservation
To promote appropriate development which secures the beneficial re-use and enhancement of historic buildings and environments.

Introduction

8.3 Wyre Forest District contains a variety of heritage interests, including buildings, areas, monuments, landscapes and archaeology.

8.4 Legal provisions and other guidance on heritage relevant to the planning process include the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990; the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979; PPG15 (Planning and the Historic Environment); PPG16 (Archaeology and Planning); and the Worcestershire County Structure Plan 1996-2011.

8.5 These provisions and guidance refer to several heritage issues local planning authorities should have regard to when preparing local plans, including the following:

- Buildings and structures
- Areas of architectural or historic interest
- Archaeological sites
- Historic landscapes
- Conservation and management of the above
- The finite nature of heritage interests

8.6 The Local Plan seeks to address these issues and to ensure that, in accordance with principles of sustainability, the heritage interest of the District is conserved and perpetuated.

Statutorily And Non-Statutorily Listed Buildings And Structures

8.7 There are two types of listing protection that may be conferred on buildings and structures, as follows:

Statutorily Listed Buildings and Structures:

8.8 Buildings and structures may be statutorily listed by the Secretary of State under the provisions of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 (Section 1). Such buildings and structures may be publicly or privately owned, and are classified into three grades depending upon their architectural or historic interest, as follows:

Grade I:	exceptional interest.
Grade II*:	particularly important.
Grade II:	special interest, warranting every effort being made for their preservation.

8.9 The District presently contains six list entries of Grade I, twenty-five of Grade II*, and six hundred and fifty five of Grade II; amounting to six hundred and eighty six list entries in total. Each list entry may relate to more than one individual building, and hence the District contains in excess of nine hundred individual listed buildings and structures. Such listed buildings vary greatly in nature and age, including for example, cottages, farm buildings, country houses, carpet manufacturing premises, bridges, canal structures and telephone boxes.

Grade 1 Listed Bewdley Bridge

8.10 Listed Building Consent is required for the demolition, alteration or extension of a statutorily listed building or structure, including those within its curtilage; together with works of repair which it is not proposed to undertake on a like-for-like basis. PPG15 advises there is a general presumption in favour of the preservation of statutorily listed buildings, except where a convincing case can be made out for demolition or alteration. PPG15 and the Worcestershire County Structure Plan 1996-2011 urge particular care in relation to considering all proposals that would affect statutorily Listed Buildings.

Non-statutorily Listed Buildings and Structures:

8.11 PPG15 advises that it is open to local planning authorities to draw up lists of locally important buildings and formulate local plan policies for their protection. In this respect, the District Council is currently in the process of compiling a Local List of Buildings and Structures and would aim for early completion, in consultation with relevant bodies, and would review the List from time to time.

8.12 Locally listed buildings and structures do not enjoy the full protection of statutory listing, because inclusion on a local list does not carry with it a requirement for Listed Building Consent. However, where feasible and appropriate, proposals for development and other works will be regulated, requested or encouraged for their conservation; including their sympathetic repair, alteration, extension or conversion. In Conservation Areas, Conservation Area Consent is required for the demolition of buildings and structures not statutorily listed; and there are limitations to normal permitted development rights. In order to help preserve locally listed buildings and structures, legal provisions exist for the District Council to make Article 4 Directions limiting permitted development rights, as appropriate.

8.13 It should be remembered old buildings and structures represent a precious and finite asset, and are powerful reminders of the work and life of earlier generations. The richness of this heritage plays an important part in our sense of national and local identity, and distinctiveness. Even where buildings and structures are classifiable by for example, style or type, they may have variations of design and detailing which make then unique. Some locally listed buildings will form part of the record of buildings associated with the carpet manufacturing industry, for which the District became internationally famous during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries; and their conservation will be considered particularly important.

Town Hall, Kidderminster

8.14 The preservation of buildings and structures in situ is generally the preferred option but where exceptionally this is not possible, relocation may be acceptable. Consent for demolition will not be given simply because redevelopment is economically more attractive than repair and reuse, or because a developer's acquisition price reflected redevelopment. The willingness of a developer to relocate a listed building, and redevelop its site, will not automatically lead to the approval of a planning application to undertake development.

Development Affecting a Listed Building

Policy LB.1

Development that would have an adverse effect on a statutorily or non-statutorily listed building or structure, its curtilage, setting, or a building or structure within its curtilage considered to have protection of listing, will not be permitted, unless it is clearly demonstrated the following criteria are met:

i) there are no reasonable alternative means of meeting the need for the development appropriate to the level of importance of the listed building or structure;

ii) the reasons for the development outweigh the individual importance of the listed building or structure, its importance as part of a group and to the local scene, and the need to safeguard the wider stock of such buildings or structures; and

iii) in the case of proposals for demolition:

a) all reasonable efforts have been made to sustain existing uses, find viable new uses for the building or structure, market it, or otherwise preserve it in charitable or community ownership;

b) it includes appropriate proposals for its relocation where physically feasible; and

c) it includes detailed and appropriate proposals for redevelopment that would produce substantial benefits to the community, together with clear evidence the redevelopment will proceed; or

d) it is wholly beyond repair and includes detailed and appropriate proposals for redevelopment, together with clear evidence the redevelopment will proceed.

Repairs, Alterations, Extensions and Conversions

8.15 Most buildings and structures will require repairs from time to time, and many will be subject to proposals for alterations, extensions or conversions. Buildings and structures vary greatly in the extent to which they are able to accommodate change without loss of interest. Repairs should attempt to retain original fabric and only introduce new fabric that matches the original. Many traditional materials and features common to the District are still readily available, such as grey slates, clay plain tiles, oak timbering, lime mortar; or can be readily made by specialists, such as sash windows, panelled doors, barge boards, and custom bricks and mouldings. Alterations and extensions should normally harmonise seamlessly with the existing building or structure, its curtilage and setting; rather than breaking with the existing design, style, materials or proportions. Conversions should fit into a building's existing character rather than adapt it; be easily and substantially reversible to its earlier state; and otherwise compatible with the fabric, interior and setting. The reuse of vacant rooms and floors over shops, and of valued redundant buildings, will be encouraged where it does not conflict with the preceding objectives or other policies in the Local Plan.

8.16 The District Council has commissioned three leaflets providing advice on the repair and maintenance of buildings and structures, as follows:

- Looking After Your Old Buildings.
- Conservation and Renewal of Timber Windows.
- Pointing With Lime Mortars.

8.17 It is anticipated that other leaflets will be commissioned or prepared in due course. Further relevant guidance is contained in the statement Conversion of Historic Farm Buildings (1993), and the leaflets Dormer Windows and Sash Windows, produced by English Heritage; BS7913 (Principles of Conservation of Historic Buildings); and guides to restoration and maintenance produced by the Georgian Group, Victorian Society, and the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings.

Tontine Buildings, Stourport-on-Severn

Repairs, Alterations, Extensions and Conversions

Policy LB.2

Repairs, alterations, extensions and conversions of statutorily and non-statutorily listed buildings and structures must meet the following criteria:

i) minimise the loss of, impact upon and be compatible with, the historic fabric;

ii) utilise materials, bonding styles and finishes similar to the original (including the reuse of existing materials) or where this is not feasible, otherwise match them as closely as possible;

iii) use traditional techniques of repair or where they would prove inadequate, use compatible and proven modern techniques;

iv) avoid artificial materials, including uPVC and plastic tiles;

v) avoid introducing features alien to the building or its period;

vi) be of similar style;

vii) not involve gutting of interiors or redevelopment behind retained facades; and

a) in the case of extensions, be complementary in proportion, plan and detailing; and

b) in the case of conversions, only involve physical works that are substantially and easily reversible, and retain the original internal and external character and fabric;

c) otherwise harmonise with the building or structure, its curtilage and setting.

Fixtures and Fittings

8.18 There are many modern fixtures and fittings that look out of place on historic buildings. They may also damage the fabric of a building or be difficult to remove. Examples include automated teller machines (cash-points), satellite antennae, CCTV cameras, burglar alarms, lighting, canopies, security shutters, advertisements, extractor fans, and flues. Particular care needs to be exercised over their design, siting and application.

Fixtures and Fittings

Policy LB.3

The application or installation of fixtures and fittings alien to the date, design or fabric of a statutorily or non-statutorily listed building or structure will not be permitted, unless they would:

i) be inconspicuously sited and proportioned;

ii) be sympathetically styled, coloured and finished;

iii) minimise the loss of and impact upon historic fabric;

iv) be easily reversible; and

v) otherwise harmonise with the building or structure, its curtilage and setting.

Parks and Gardens

8.19 PPG15 advises that parks and gardens associated with statutorily listed buildings form an important component of their character and interest. This will also be considered important in relation to non-statutorily listed buildings. It will include large and small gardens and plots; and front, side and rear gardens. Such parks and gardens should be retained substantially undeveloped. Features to be conserved will include the historic plan, topography, vegetation, structural and decorative features, boundary features, and water features.

Harvington Hall

8.20 Further matters relating to parks and gardens are dealt with in Policy HL.1.

Parks and Gardens

Policy LB.4

Parks and gardens associated with statutorily and non-statutorily listed buildings should be retained substantially undeveloped, and their special features conserved.

New Development Affecting the Setting of Listed Buildings

8.21 Where occasionally there is scope for new building next to statutorily and non-statutorily listed buildings, and in their setting, careful consideration needs be given to ensuring it fits in harmoniously. Matters of style, materials, proportion, plan and siting are considered particularly important. Limited contemporary detailing may be acceptable but care should be taken to ensure it is harmonises with and is not incongruous to the historic building, its curtilage or setting.

8.22 Issues relating to development in Conservation Areas are dealt with in Policy CA.1.

New Development Affecting the Setting of Listed Buildings

Policy LB.5

New buildings and structures affecting the setting of a statutorily or non-statutorily listed building, must:

i) relate well to them in terms of design, style, materials, proportion and plan: and

ii) otherwise harmonise with the building or structure, its curtilage and setting.

The introduction of contemporary detailing may be acceptable but must not be incongruous to the statutorily or non-statutorily building or structure, its curtilage or setting.

Conservation Areas and Other Areas

Development in Conservation Areas

8.23 Conservation Areas are designated by local authorities under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 (Section 69). They comprise "areas of special architectural or historic interest the character or appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance", and recognise the importance of conserving the wider townscape and its setting, rather than just individual listed buildings and structures, or groups of such buildings.

8.24 At present there are sixteen Conservation Areas in the District, (see Appendix 7 for detailed descriptions) :

Areley Kings (semi-rural hamlet)
Bewdley (Town Centre)
Blakebrook (suburban Kidderminster)
Broome (rural hamlet)
Chaddesley Corbett (rural settlement)
Churchill (rural hamlet)
Church Street (Kidderminster Town Centre)
Harvington (rural hamlet)
Ribbesford (rural hamlet)
Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal
Stourport-on-Severn No. 1 (Canal Basins and Town Centre)
Stourport-on-Severn No. 2 (Town Centre)
Gilgal (Stourport-on-Severn)
Upper Arley (rural hamlet)
Vicar Street and Exchange Street (Kidderminster Town Centre)
Wolverley (rural settlement)

8.25 Proposals for designating further Conservation Areas and reviewing existing boundaries, are currently being prepared and investigated.

8.26 Within Conservation Areas, development including new-build, redevelopment, extensions or alterations must preserve and enhance the special character and appearance of the area. This is also important outside Conservation Areas (PPG15, para.4.14) where proposals for development would affect the setting; views into or out of the area; and at gateway points, so as to ensure smooth transitions. Components of character which it will be considered particularly important to preserve or enhance, include the following:

i. setting and topography;
ii. historic evolution and land uses;
iii. traditional colours;
iv. reflection of climatic influences, as relevant;
v. patterns of movement, including historic street and footpath patterns;
vi. night time character and appearance;
vii. important views into, out of and within the area;
viii. patterns of building, including building plans; relationship to the street; plot shape and layout; back, front and side gardens; boundary treatment and density;
ix. types and styles of buildings, including traditional ancillary buildings;
x. size, proportions and morphology of buildings;
xi. materials, finishes and construction and the avoidance of non-traditional materials such as uPVC, perspex and mirror glass;
xii. architectural features and detailing;
xiii. landmarks, focal points and special features;
xiv. traditional ground surfaces and street furniture;
xv. open spaces, landscaping and trees;
xvi. tranquil areas; and
xvii. neutral areas and other areas identified for enhancement.

8.27 In order to assist with these requirements, Conservation Area Character Appraisals for five Conservation Areas (Bewdley, Stourport-on-Severn 1 & 2, Gilgal and Vicar Street) have been completed to date and the District Council intends to commission or prepare similar appraisals for all Conservation Areas in due course. Brief descriptions of existing Conservation areas are also included as Appendix 7. Further relevant guidance is contained in the statement Conservation Area Practice produced by English Heritage. Importantly, the personal taste of an architect or client, however distinguished, for a development that would not meet these requirements will not be considered a sufficient reason to approve development, particularly where more compatible alternatives are feasible.

Chaddesley Corbett High Street

8.28 In view of the sensitivity of Conservation Areas and the difficulty of assessing the effect of a proposal in outline, applications for development within and adjoining them should normally be in detailed form. Within Conservation Areas, Conservation Area Consent is required for the demolition of buildings and structures not statutorily listed; and there are limitations on normal permitted development rights, including those relating to extensions, and alterations to roofs. Local authorities are required from time-to-time to prepare and undertake schemes to preserve and enhance the character or appearance of Conservation Areas, and the District and County Councils will undertake such schemes as resources permit. Individual and joint schemes with landowners, developers and statutory undertakers, will be encouraged where feasible and appropriate.

Mart Lane, Stourport-on-Severn

Development in Conservation Areas

Policy CA.1

Development within an existing or proposed Conservation Area, or which affects its setting, or views into or out of the area, will not be permitted unless it includes detailed plans and preserves or enhances, and otherwise harmonises with the special character and appearance of the area. In considering how development meets the above, particular regard will be paid to existing and proposed Conservation Area Character Appraisals.

Demolition in Conservation Areas

8.29 PPG15 (para.4.27) advises there is a general presumption in favour of retaining buildings that make a positive contribution to the character or appearance of a Conservation Area. Conservation Area Consent is required for the demolition of buildings and certain structures not statutorily listed. In considering proposals for demolition, careful consideration will be given to the condition of the building; any special interest it may have in itself or by association; its value to the character or appearance of the Conservation Area; and whether its demolition or replacement would benefit the character and appearance of the Conservation Area. In order for the latter to be properly assessed, such proposals must include detailed plans for redevelopment or other after-use of the site. It will generally be unacceptable to demolish old outbuildings and boundary features such as walls.

8.30 Further matters relating to demolition of statutorily and non-statutorily listed buildings are dealt with in Policy LB.1.

Demolition in Conservation Areas

Policy CA.2

Proposals for the demolition of a building or structure in a Conservation Area will not be permitted unless it is clearly demonstrated that:

i) it has no recognised interest in itself or by association, and no value to the character or appearance of the Conservation Area;

ii) its demolition or replacement would benefit the character or appearance of the Conservation Area; and

iii) they include detailed and appropriate proposals for redevelopment, together with clear evidence such redevelopment will proceed; or

iv) it is wholly beyond repair and they include detailed and appropriate proposals for redevelopment, together with clear evidence the redevelopment will proceed.

Shop Fronts in Conservation Areas and in Relation to Listed Buildings

8.31 Many old buildings have been spoilt by the insertion of inappropriate modern shop fronts, or by the crude repair of their original fronts. The replacement of a shop front requires planning permission and if shop premises are statutorily listed, the replacement or alteration of the shop front will require Listed Building Consent. Where traditional shop fronts exist, repair will be considered preferable to replacement. If repair is not possible, new components and shop fronts should be designed in sympathy with the original shop front design; the period of the building; harmoniously proportioned; and incorporate appropriate traditional design elements. The latter will generally include stall rises, sills, transoms, mullions, a fascia board, console brackets, a cornice, canvas roller blind (free from advertising) and a recessed doorway. Wood will be the preferred traditional material, with painted surfacing, and painted lettering on the fascia. Varnished, stained or shiny finishes should be avoided, as should materials such as perspex and mirror glass. Large areas of plate glass, and internally illuminated fascias and signage will be inappropriate, as will externally mounted swan neck lighting and advertisements. Natural light or light from street lamps is generally to be preferred. Security shutters should not be located externally or be incongruously coloured. Shopfronts or fascias should not spread across individual adjoining buildings, but be designed to relate to the individual buildings. The insertion of new shop fronts into statutorily and non-statutorily listed buildings that do not presently have such features will be not be appropriate. Modern off the peg doors and fittings should be avoided. Shopfronts for new buildings in Conservation Areas should use traditional designs and materials appropriate to the vicinity. Traditional shop fronts should be reinstated to statutorily or non-statutorily listed buildings, and incongruous features removed, where traditional shop fronts have been replaced unsympathetically. In order to assist with the preceding requirements, the Council is preparing Shop Front Design Guidance. Further relevant guidance is contained in the leaflet Shopfronts produced by English Heritage.

York Street, Stourport-on-Severn

8.32 Further issues relating to repairs and alterations, and alien fixtures and fittings, are dealt with in Policies LB.2. and LB.3.

Shop Fronts in Conservation Areas and in Relation to Listed Buildings

Policy CA.3

Within Conservation Areas and in relation to statutorily and non-statutorily Listed Buildings, shop fronts and their repair must:

i) minimise the loss of, impact upon and be compatible with, historic fabric;

ii) be of traditional design, materials and surface finish;

iii) be of appropriate proportions;

iv) avoid internally illuminated fascias and other internally illuminated signage, and externally mounted lighting and advertisements;

v) avoid externally mounted, opaque or incompatibly coloured security shuttering;

vi) not spread across individual adjoining buildings; and

vii) otherwise harmonise with the building or structure, its curtilage and setting.

Trees and Hedgerows in Conservation Areas

8.33 Trees and hedgerows can make a significant contribution to the special character and appearance of Conservation Areas. The Council will seek to preserve such trees and hedgerows, having regard to their health and condition, their effect on buildings or land, the importance of maintaining root systems, and perpetuation through replanting. Importantly (PPG15, para.4.39) where it is proposed to fell, top or lop a tree not protected by a Tree Preservation Order in a Conservation Area, six weeks advance notice must be given to the District Council. If such works appear to be unjustified or otherwise unreasonable, or the Council learns of other potential adverse effects, it will consider making a Tree Preservation Order.

8.34 Further matters relating to trees are contained in paragraph 8.26 (xv) and Policies D.3 (iii) and D.4 of the Local Plan.

Trees and Hedgerows in Conservation Areas

Policy CA.4

Trees and hedgerows that contribute to the special character, appearance or amenity of Conservation Areas must be retained and not directly or indirectly adversely affected. Appropriate topping, lopping or felling of trees will usually be acceptable if it is essential:

i) to their health or stability;

ii) to the safety or condition of buildings, structures or land; or

iii) would otherwise benefit the character or appearance of a Conservation Area.

Care should be taken to conserve root systems. Proposals for felling must be clearly justified and exceptional, and accompanied by appropriate proposals for replanting. Consideration will be given to making Tree Preservation Orders, as appropriate.

Highways Works in Conservation Areas

8.35 PPG15 (para.1.6) advises that highway works should reflect the need to protect the historic environment. This includes road building and maintenance, and the quality of street furniture and surfaces. It will also be considered to encompass parking areas and standards, footpaths and pavements, and hard landscaping. Particular regard will be paid to the following:

i. retention of historic street patterns, surface materials and traditional street furniture;
ii. sympathetic highway design and surface treatment, including the scale, bond and type of materials; carriageway markings; and hard landscaping;
iii. sympathetic design, position and size of signage, lighting and other street furniture; and the avoidance of clutter: iv. appropriate reinstatement and repairs of traditional or other compatible materials and street furniture; and
v. sympathetic parking standards, locations and design.

8.36 Further relevant guidance is provided in Street Improvements in Historic Areas (1993) produced by English Heritage, and Traffic Measures in Historic Towns (1993) produced by the Civic Trust.

Highways Works in Conservation Areas

Policy CA.5

Within and adjoining Conservation Areas, highway works must preserve or enhance the special character and appearance of the area.

Other Areas of Special Character and Appearance

8.37 There are many areas other than Conservation Areas that have a special character and appearance that is of value to built heritage and local distinctiveness. Many nineteenth and early twentieth century areas and streets have a particularly coherent and dignified character, and utilise materials and detailing that is rare today, for example, stained glass, specially moulded bricks and detailing, terracotta, Flemish bonding, gauged voussoirs, rusticated headers, elaborate woodwork and sash windows. They exist in many parts of Kidderminster, along the main roads of Wribbenhall, in Stourport-on-Severn, and in smaller settlements such as Blakedown and Cookley. These areas do not enjoy the full protection of Conservation Areas, however, proposals for development will be subject to careful scrutiny to ensure high quality and sensitive design is maintained.

8.38 Other relevant policies are contained in the Design Chapter.

Other Areas of Special Character and Appearance

Policy CA.6

Development should preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the older parts of towns and villages outside Conservation Areas, particularly those with buildings dating from the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Demolition of buildings and structures that contribute positively to the character or appearance of these areas will be resisted.

Archaeology

Archaeological Sites of National Importance

8.39 Sites of national importance to archaeology relevant to the District, include the following:

Scheduled Ancient Monuments (SAM's):

8.40 SAM's are sites and structures legally protected under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act (1979). They are assessed against published criteria, may be publicly or privately owned, and English Heritage will encourage and advise upon their management. There are presently nine SAM's in the District, as follows:

Arley Wood camp (Upper Arley)
Baches Forge (Churchill)
Barrow Hill (Chaddesley Corbett)
Bowercourt Farm moated site and ponds (Rock)
Drakelow hill fort (Wolverley)
Harvington Hall moated site, ponds and quarries (Chaddesley Corbett)
Pickards Farm moated site (Upper Arley)
Rock Farm moated site (Rock)
Wassell Wood moated site (Kidderminster Foreign)

Other areas of national importance to archaeology:

8.41 PPG16 (paras.16-18) advises that many archaeological sites of national importance are not scheduled. In Wyre Forest District, such sites will normally be identified on the County Sites and Monuments Record maintained by the County Archaeological Officer of Worcestershire County Council. In such cases, particular regard will be paid to the advice of English Heritage and the County Archaeological Officer, in considering proposals for development.

8.42 PPG16 (paras.8 & 27) advises that where nationally important archaeological remains and their settings, whether scheduled or unscheduled, are affected by proposals for development, there should be a presumption in favour of their physical preservation in situ. The Worcestershire County Structure Plan 1996-2011 adds that preservation should also include the amenity value of such sites.

Archaeological Sites of National Importance

Policy AR.1

Development that would have a direct or indirect adverse effect on the site, setting or amenity value of a Scheduled Ancient Monument, or other archaeological remains of national importance, will not be permitted. There will be a presumption in favour of the physical preservation of such remains and settings in situ.

Sites of Regional, County and Local Importance

8.43 PPG16 (paras.16 & 18) advises that many unscheduled archaeological remains of sub-national importance may be worthy of preservation. In Wyre Forest District, such sites will normally be identified on the County Sites and Monuments Record maintained by the County Archaeological Officer of Worcestershire County Council. In such cases (PPG16, paras.8, 17 & 28) particular regard will be paid to the need to weigh the relative importance of the archaeology against other factors, together with the advice of the County Archaeological Officer, in considering proposals for development.

Archaeological Sites of Regional, County or Local Importance

Policy AR.2

Development that would have a direct or indirect adverse effect on the site or setting of archaeological remains of regional, county, or local importance will not be permitted unless it is clearly demonstrated two criteria are met, as follows:

i) there are no reasonable alternative means of meeting the need for the development appropriate to the level of importance of the archaeological site and its setting; and

ii) the reasons for the development outweigh the archaeological importance of the site and its setting, and the need to safeguard the wider stock of such sites.

Archaeological Evaluations and Mitigation Measures

8.44 Sites and areas of archaeological interest are known or may potentially occur, in many locations throughout the District. In such cases, PPG16 (paras.19 & 20) advises it is in the interests of prospective developers to undertake an initial archaeological assessment before submitting a planning application. This will usually involve a desk-top examination of the County Sites and Monuments Record maintained by the County Archaeological Officer of Worcestershire County Council, which presently includes in excess of nine hundred entries for the District and is constantly updated. If important remains are known or thought to exist, English Heritage and the District Council will wish to discuss the proposal at an early stage.

8.45 In cases where research or advice indicates important archaeological remains may exist and a developer still wishes to proceed (PPG16, paras.21 & 22) the developer will be required to commission an archaeological field evaluation. This should be submitted with a planning application, or otherwise carried out and submitted before any decision on a planning application is taken. It must include details of the nature, extent and significance of the remains; and the extent to which the proposed development would affect the remains and setting.

8.46 Where important archaeological remains are known or thought to exist (PPG.16, para.12) developers should prepare designs that preserve the remains in situ. Such designs should use, for example, foundations that avoid disturbing the remains altogether, raised floor levels, careful siting of landscaped and open areas, and special methods of sealing and preserving remains under such schemes.

8.47 Where preservation in situ is not required and development would have an adverse effect on important remains (PPG16, paras.24-26) developers may be required to allow for the adequate excavation and recording of remains before development commences. In cases where a site is of minor importance or disturbance will be minor, developers may be required to allow for an adequate watching brief to be undertaken during the process of development. This should allow for observation and recording. Importantly (PPG16, para.13) preservation of important archaeological remains in situ will nearly always be preferred to preservation by record. In addition, the willingness of a developer to allow the excavation and recording of remains prior to development, or a watching brief during development, will not automatically lead to the approval of a planning application to undertake development.

8.48 All evaluations, excavations, records, briefs and works should be carried out by accredited individuals in accordance with appropriate standards and procedures; for example, Members of the Institute of Field Archaeologists, and the British Archaeologist's and Developer's Code of Practice.

8.49 Where appropriate (PPG16, paras.26 & 28) planning conditions, obligations or exceptionally voluntary agreements, will be used to secure implementation of the above provisions.

Archaeological Evaluations and Mitigation Measures

Policy AR.3

Where development is proposed that would affect a site of national or sub-national archaeological importance, including its setting, planning applications must be accompanied by the following:-

i) an archaeological field evaluation; and

ii) mitigation measures, as appropriate, as follows:

a) to protect, preserve, enhance, manage, and interpret remains and the site in good condition in situ;

b) to utilise building designs, and positioning of open areas and landscaped areas so as to avoid disturbance or otherwise minimise any adverse effect;

c) where exceptionally preservation in situ is not feasible or appropriate and before development commences, to allow an appropriate archaeological excavation and record, the removal of remains and their suitable preservation elsewhere; or a watching brief during development.

Planning conditions and obligations will be used as appropriate.

Discovery Of Archaeological Remains During Development

8.50 There may be instances where archaeological remains are only discovered once a development has begun. In such cases, the District Council may wish to take steps for the conservation of such remains and will depend upon advice from the County Archaeological Officer. To this end the Council endorses the Code of Practice produced by the British Archaeologist's and Developers' Liaison Group. It is hoped, however, that pre-planning in accordance with Policy AR.3 will usually render this unnecessary.

Discovery Of Archaeological Remains During Development

Policy AR.4

Where archaeological remains are discovered as a result of development commencing, the developer should notify the find to the District Council before proceeding further. A planning condition will be used as appropriate to implement this policy.

Historic Landscapes

8.51 The whole of the landscape, to varying degrees and in different ways, is a historic and archaeological artefact, the product of complex historical processes and past land uses. The importance of protecting, retaining and managing historic landscapes is referred to in PPG's 15 (paras.2.26 & 6.40) and 16 (para.14), and the Worcestershire County Structure Plan 1996-2011. Much of the value of the historic landscape lies in its complexity, diversity and local distinctiveness.

8.52 The Countryside Agency and English Heritage are presently developing approaches to the identification of components and character of the landscape. At present, the Worcestershire County Structure Plan 1996-2011 identifies a number of features and types of area particularly significant to the historic landscape of Worcestershire, as follows:

Parks and Gardens

Registered Parks and Gardens

8.53 A non-statutory Register of Parks and Gardens is maintained by English Heritage (PPG15, para.2.24). These parks and gardens are considered to be of national importance. There is currently one such park and garden in the District, at Arley House (Upper Arley).

Arley Arboretum

Other Parks and Gardens

8.54 The Hereford and Worcestershire Gardens Trust have commissioned and published A Survey of Historic Parks and Gardens in Worcestershire (1997) which identifies thirty-two parks and gardens throughout the District, in addition to the one above. These areas are considered to be of sub-national importance. They are listed in Appendix 8.

8.55 The above survey is not comprehensive. The District may therefore contain other parks and gardens of interest both in urban and rural areas, and of varying age and size. This will include small gardens associated with statutorily and non-statutorily listed buildings, both within and outside Conservation Areas.

8.56 Historic parks and gardens should be retained substantially undeveloped. The features to be conserved will include the plan and topography; vegetation; structural and decorative features; boundary features; and water features.

8.57 Further issues relating to parks, gardens, curtilages and settings associated with statutorily and non-statutorily listed buildings, are dealt with in Policies LB.4 and LB.5.

Common Land

8.58 There are seven areas of Common Land in the District, as follows:

Abberley Avenue (Areley Common)
Dry Mill Lane (Bewdley)
Hartlebury Common
Hillary Road (Summerfield)
Pound Green
Rock Common
Trimpley Common

Village Greens
Relic agricultural landscapes
Areas of archaeological sites and monuments throughout the District.

Industrial landscapes, e.g. the buildings, stream and pool systems in the east of the District and in the Wyre Forest associated with metal working; carpet manufacturing premises in Kidderminster and Stourport-on-Severn, and the landscape and buildings associated with the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal.

Historic settlements and their environments.
The settings of both individual monuments and historic settlements in the wider landscape.
Orchards, e.g. within and around the Wyre Forest.
Ponds throughout the district.
Localised features, such as walls, boundary treatments and street furniture.

8.59 Many of the above features and areas will be recorded on the County Sites and Monuments Record maintained by the County Archaeological Officer of Worcestershire County Council. Some of these features and areas will also be referred to elsewhere in Landscape, Nature Conservation and Archaeology Sections and Sub-Sections of the Local Plan. Further guidance is contained in the statement Golf Course Proposals in Historic Landscapes produced by English Heritage.

Historic Landscapes

Policy HL.1

Historic landscapes should be conserved and development that would have a direct or indirect adverse effect on a feature or area of particular significance to the historic landscape, its setting or view to it, will not be permitted.

Enabling Development

8.60 Enabling development refers to development that is contrary to established planning policy, which is occasionally permitted because it brings public benefits that are demonstrated clearly to outweigh the harm that would be caused, for example, by securing the restoration of a listed building, or the enhancement of a street scene. The English Heritage policy statement entitled Enabling Development and the Conservation of Historic assets (2001) includes strict guidelines which applications for enabling development must demonstrate they meet, and which the District Council will take into account, together with any other material considerations, when considering such proposals.

Enabling Development

Policy ED.1

Applications for enabling development must be in Full form and accompanied by information demonstrating the following:

a) The enabling development will not materially detract from the archaeological, architectural, historic, landscape, nature conservation (including biodiversity) interest of the historic asset, or materially harm its setting; and

b) The proposal avoids detrimental fragmentation of the management of the heritage asset; and

c) The enabling development will secure the long term future of the heritage asset, and where applicable, its continued use for a sympathetic purpose; and

d) The justification arises from the inherent needs of the heritage asset, rather than the circumstances of the present owner or the purchase price paid; and

e) Sufficient financial assistance is not available from any other source; and

f) The amount of enabling development is the minimum necessary to secure the future of the heritage asset, and that itÕs form minimises disbenefits; and

g) The value of the survival or enhancement of the heritage asset outweighs the long-term cost to the community (i.e. disbenefits) of providing the enabling development; and

h) The proposal includes details of repairs to the heritage asset to an agreed standard, or the funds to do so are proposed to be made available as early as possible before commencement of, or during the course of, the enabling development; and

i) The need for enabling development has not arisen from deliberate neglect of the heritage asset.

Planning conditions and obligations will be used as appropriate to secure implementation of this policy.

Heritage Assets

8.61 The conservation, enhancement and management of heritage assets is important to ensure they survive in good condition. Interpretation of these assets by means such as the provision of information boards may assist with educational, leisure and tourism activities. These measures will be encouraged or required where compatible, feasible and appropriate.

Heritage Assets

Policy HA.1

The conservation, enhancement, management and interpretation of heritage assets, including buildings, structures, areas, archaeological sites and remains, and historic landscapes and features, will be encouraged or required where compatible, feasible and appropriate. Planning conditions, obligations, legal and voluntary agreements will be used as appropriate.