Councillors back Long Crendon conservation area changes
Archived press release
Date Published: 06/03/09
A number of boundary changes to the Long Crendon conservation area have been approved by Aylesbury Vale District Council.
The amendments include additions to the conservation area and also some locations that have been removed.
The changes went through a thorough process of public consultation – including an exhibition at the Village Centre – before being adopted at the full council meeting on 25 February.
Areas which have been added to the conservation area include the verges, trees and hedges along Bicester Road, a section of late 19th and early 20th century housing along Chearsley Road, and the grounds of the Manor House and Game Keep next to St. Mary’s Church.
Some modern properties which are of a different architectural character to the historic core of Long Crendon have been removed from the conservation area.
Although the inclusion of new sites into the conservation area does not prevent development work taking place, it does ensure that any future proposals would have to be in keeping with the character and appearance of the area and not detract from it.
The original boundaries were drawn up 40 years ago to help preserve and enhance sites of special architectural or historic interest.
Councillor Sue Polhill, Cabinet Member for Planned Development, said: “English Heritage has advised local authorities that all conservation areas should be reviewed and character assessments produced for each one. These assessments identify and record the special features that give the area
its architectural and historic interest, so that they can be preserved and enhanced for the benefit of everyone.
“This does not mean we will not be allowing changes to the buildings in these areas. But it does mean that any changes will be carefully considered for their potential impact on the conservation area before planning permission is granted. The preservation of an area’s character is an important factor when making these decisions.”
Plans of the revised conservation area boundaries in Long Crendon are available to view on the council’s website.