Decision details

Michael Tsoukaris, Design and Conservation Manager,  introduced the report which contained additional information, specific to the West Square proposals, clarifying the purpose of a conservation area appraisal and the position of the ‘House Extensions in the Albert Triangle’ document 1986 which had been superseded by planning guidance on permitted development and new legislation. There was a discussion around mansard extensions and Michael explained that conservation area status does not preclude development and that any application for listed building consent would be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Residents from the Albert Square Triangle, situated within the West Square conservation area, raised concerns that officers considered the 1986 guidance issued was no longer relevant, which had been important in establishing the conservation area. There was also a discussion about the group listing of buildings and what the design aims for the entire block would be. Michael clarified that the listing of buildings in the Albert Triangle was as a result of a borough wide review in the 1970s and did not relate to the leaflet produced.

Councillors asked why a conservation area appraisal and a management plan were not considered together and if there was scope to do this. Michael explained that the two elements needed to be considered separately as the appraisal was about establishing the significance historical characteristics of an area and the management plan followed, as that addressed specific issues such as traffic management and public realm.

Local councillors suggested that in relation to the West Square Area appraisals the following paragraphs of the report were deleted: 1.8.1; 5.7.8; and 5.7.11.Councillors also questioned whether the level of detail in paragraph 5.7.17 was required in the appraisal or if this would be better suited to the conservation area management plan.

In relation the Thrale Street Conservation Area owners of the Menier Chocolate Factory Theatre expressed concerns about the impact of the conservation area on their plans to develop the theatre. Michael reassured the meeting that a conservation area does not preclude development but the aim is to manage change in an area with important historical features.

RESOLVED

That the comments made by Cathedrals Ward councillors, in relation to the West Square area appraisal, are put forward to planning committee by the community council as set out above.