My attention has been drawn to a recent case in Wiltshire where a cottage has been demolished in order for it to be replaced with a modern house.
By all accounts the cottage was very old with some describing it as Victorian whilst others say it dates back to the 1700s. Whatever the age it was apparently an attractive cottage and a well know landmark- that is until it was bought by an estate agent wanting to develop the site. The cottage allegedly continued to be occupied for a year after purchase by the estate agent but then he allowed the cottage to fall into disrepair.
All of the procedures have been followed with the necessary consents for demolition being granted by the Council, despite contrary advice from their officers, and challenges to the process being decided in the estate agent’s favour by the High Court. The end result has been the demolition of a cottage much loved by a section of the local community to the detriment of a conservation area.
For me the case raises a number of interesting issues. I note that the processes and procedures were followed and a decision reached in a democratic way that was eventually upheld by the courts. So what is the problem I can hear people asking?
Well, for one I would question the extent to which the process leading to the decision to demolish and replace with a new dwelling was truly democratic. I note with some concern that officers’ advice was disregarded and would love to know if this advice included conservation officer advice.
I do not know if a case was put forward to have the building listed. Certainly if it dated from the 1700s and was as attractive and interesting as indicated in the press reports, I am surprised that it didn’t receive the protection that being listed would have afforded it. This raises the whole issue as to what factors are taken into consideration when buildings etc. are considered for listing. Surely if a pedestrian crossing in Abbey Road can be listed because of its historic interest, beautiful buildings that are 300 years old should be protected?
Also in terms of what might come out in the National Planning Policy Framework final version shortly, what do decisions and decisions like this presage for other non-statutorily protected buildings and land?
The various standpoints and quite often outspoken views are very interesting and can be viewed on the following link:-
http://www.gazetteandherald.co.uk/news/towns/devizesheadlines/9442979.Little_Cheverell_cottage_crushed/
I would urge you to read the web page and I would be interested to hear your views and be advised of any similar instances in your area.
Navigation