Development Management Development Plan (DPD)

Comment

Representation ID: 962

Received: 19/10/2010

Respondent: English Heritage

There is currently no indication that any historic landscape characterisation has been done. For example, where Table 1 lists the individual zones, the zone that covers Two Tree Island, Leigh Marshes and Belton Hills also includes Hadleigh Castle Country Park. The analysis of the function of the zone should include reference to the important heritage assets of the area and their recreational value.

Support

Representation ID: 963

Received: 19/10/2010

Respondent: English Heritage

Issue DM19 - Shop Frontage Management, p70

Suggested option, p71: Row 3 of the Suggested Option table refers to 'ensuring that new shop frontages are of a high standard of design that is compatible with the architectural style and character of the building'. While we support this, the policy should also give special consideration to conservation areas.

Comment

Representation ID: 964

Received: 19/10/2010

Respondent: English Heritage

Issue DM25 - Land Instability, p88
This policy should make reference to the potential for palaeo-archaeological or environmental evidence to be discovered in areas where the cliffs are unstable. The proposed monitoring and stabilisation works could also be looked on as an opportunity to record items that might be of interest in the Borough's HER (Historic Environment Record).

Comment

Representation ID: 1233

Received: 19/10/2010

Respondent: English Heritage

GENERAL COMMENTS AND PPS5

PPS5 builds on the earlier national guidance for the historic environment and brings it up-to-date based on the principles of heritage protection reform. The following parts are of particular relevance:

Policy HE2.1 '...local planning authorities should ensure that they have evidence about the historic environment and heritage assets in their area and that this is publicly documented. The level of detail of the evidence should be proportionate and sufficient to inform adequately the plan-making process.'

Policy HE3.1: '...local development frameworks should set out a positive, proactive strategy for the conservation and enjoyment of the historic environment in their area, taking into account the variations in type and distribution of heritage asset, as well as the contribution made by the historic environment by virtue of (inter alia) its influence on the character of the environment and an area's sense of place.'

Policy HE3.2 advises that the level of detail contained in a LDF 'should reflect the scale of the area covered and the significance of the heritage assets within it'.

Policy HE3.4 states that 'At a local level, plans should consider the qualities and local distinctiveness of the historic environment and how these contribute to the spatial vision in the local development framework core strategy. Heritage assets can be used to ensure continued sustainability of an area and promote a sense of place. Plans at local level are likely to consider investment in and enhancement of historic places including the public realm, in more detail. They should include consideration of how best to conserve individual, groups or types of heritage assets that are most at risk of loss through neglect, decay or other threats'.

The emphasis on a positive, proactive approach to the historic environment in plans is especially noteworthy. We would also highlight the need to understand the significance of heritage assets within the plan area. In the context of the Southend LDF we hope that assessment of the historic environment will be pursued as an important and integral part of the evidence base.

Other points from PPS5 worth noting at this stage:
- The term 'heritage asset' is now the appropriate term to refer to those parts of the historic environment that have significance, both designated and un-designated. Paragraph 5 provides the definition.
- Paragraph 7 of the PPS recognises the positive contribution of heritage assets to local character and sense of place
- The historic environment should be integrated into planning policies promoting place-shaping (paragraph 7)
- Policy HE5 refers to the need for monitoring indicators. We recommend that heritage at risk, including grade II buildings at risk, should form part of the LDF monitoring framework.