Heritage consultants re-appointed to help review conservation areas

Date published: 26th June 2020

North Norfolk District Council has re-appointed heritage consultants Purcell to help in the continued review of a number of important conservation areas.

Purcell are highly experienced heritage consultants and the work already undertaken for North Norfolk District Council in reviewing conservation areas at Blakeney, Cley-next-the-Sea, Morston and Wiveton has been well received.

North Norfolk faces increased development pressure and it is important to undertake a review of conservation areas to make sure they remain fit for purpose in helping to preserve and enhance the character and appearance of the areas.

The next phase of reviews includes: Glandford, Letheringsett, Hempstead, Baconsthorpe and Holt (Group A) followed by Brinton with Thornage, Sharrington, Hunworth and Edgefield with a new proposed conservation area for Stody (Group B) - and then a review of the wider Glaven Valley Conservation Area, which is the biggest conservation area in the District.  

The work will ensure buildings of heritage significance, as well as key views into and out of the conservation areas, are properly understood and appropriate management plans are put in place for their future.

This will provide a clearer strategy for these areas and help shape the direction of future development in way that recognises the heritage significance of the area.

Cllr Andrew Brown, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Planning, said: "The Council are committed to involving the community in decisions whenever possible. The conservation area appraisals presents an opportunity for people to provide feedback to the Council either directly or through their Town or Parish Council representatives."

Geoff Lyon, the Major Projects Manager at North Norfolk District Council said: “We are pleased to continue working with Purcell in reviewing our conservation areas. The work already undertaken for the Glaven Ports was carried out to a high standard and this made the decision to continue working with Purcell the logical choice as we look to complete our review of conservation areas within and around the Glaven Valley.”

Sally Humphries, Senior Heritage Consultant at Purcell, said: “We are delighted at the prospect of working again with North Norfolk District Council to assess the significance and characteristics of these conservation areas.

“We know conservation areas are very special to all who live in and visit them. Being locally-based, we have a passion for Norfolk and its wonderful heritage assets. We look forward to again contributing to the sustainable future of these conservation areas.”

Work commenced on the review of conservation areas within Group A in Nov 2019 and, after a pause in recent months, has recommenced to now include a review of conservation areas within Group B. The Council would welcome input from Town and Parish Councils and other interested groups who may have important information which could help in the conservation area appraisal process. A Public consultation on the draft Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Plans will take place for Group A in Autumn 2020 and for Group B early in to 2021.

More information can be found on the dedicated Conservation Area Appraisal webpage.