Draft Shenley Conservation Area Appraisal

The Council has undertaken a Conservation Area Appraisal of the Shenley Conservation Area.

Where did these plans come from?

The plans for improvements have come about as a result of the council’s statutory responsibility to review its conservation areas from time to time. Our conservation consultants, Built Environment Advisory and Management Service (BEAMS) carried out an assessment of the conservation area in 2010. This assessment looked at the reasons why the area should be protected as a historically important part of the borough and the ways in which its historic character could be preserved and enhanced for future generations.

What boundary change is planned?

It is proposed to extend the conservation area to the south from London Road towards Silver Hill. The extension would include buildings at Pursleys Farm, Tomten at 15 London Road, and other buildings between. The council is also considering changing the boundary of the Conservation Area around Porters Park Drive.

Why do we want to extend the boundary on London Road?

There is a good case for extending the boundary further south along London Road towards Silver Hill. This is an attractive, transitional approach from the countryside into the village. It would take in buildings of traditional forms and scale, which are part of the village rather than detached from it – these include buildings at Pursleys Farm such as the timber barn which is listed, Tomten at 15 London Road and others spaced along the road.

Before we decide on the extension of the conservation area boundary we would like to know your opinion. Is the area that we are planning to extend worthy of protection? Are there any areas adjoining the conservation area that should also be included? Or are you happy with the Shenley Conservation Area as it is at present?

Boundary review around Porters Park Drive:

This part of Shenley Conservation Area was designated in 1988, and some of these roads to the west of the village were only created when the former hospital site was redeveloped in the 1990s.

There are several buildings within this area that have been demolished, or have consent to be redeveloped, like the clubhouse at the cricket centre. However, other buildings have an additional level of protection, such as locally and statutorily listed buildings and there are a significant number of trees protected by an area wide Tree Preservation Order. 

The dwellings in Mulberry Gardens, Rowan Close and Juniper Gardens are new and do not have any special architectural or historic benefit. Regardless of whether these roads or buildings are taken out of the Conservation Area, the council are also considering 'tidying up' the boundary so that it is clear when buildings are included or not within the area.

The map enclosed in the leaflet shows where the changes could be made.

We feel that the Shenley Conservation Area has the potential to remain an attractive and well-preserved area but there is always room for improvement and we feel that we can achieve this by carrying out changes to the boundary. But before we make any changes we would like your input.
 
Are there any scenarios in the map that would not be an effective way of managing the areas historic environment? Are there any scenarios that you would prefer, or any that you do not agree with? Do you think there are areas that we have missed for inclusion or exclusion from this part of the Conservation Area?

What management changes are planned?

In addition to the boundary change, the appraisal also recommends some improvements to the area that would be considered by Hertsmere Borough Council – working in conjunction with Hertfordshire Highways – and Shenley Parish Council. These could include:

• Measures to protect and enhance the character of the historic triangular core in and around the Cage Pond; and
• The use of Article 4 directions, which protect particular buildings by requiring planning permission for small-scale changes such as replacement windows.

Are you aware of any other important areas for improvement? Do you have any innovative ideas for managing the area?

Where can I see the Conservation Area Appraisal?

The consultation documents can be viewed at Civic Offices. You can also download the document here:

Shenley Conservation Area Report 

Additional consultation documents are available to download here:

Leaflet 
Frequently Asked Questions 

How can I give my views?

Council planning officers will be at Shenley Village Hall to answer questions and discuss plans on 9 December 2011 from 10am to 6pm.

You can also give your views in writing. Please write to us at:

Policy and Transport Team, Planning and Building Control Unit
Hertsmere Borough Council
Civic Offices, Elstree Way
Borehamwood, Herts. WD6 1WA

Or email us on:
local.plan@hertsmere.gov.uk

Please note that the closing date for responses is Monday 9th January 2012 at 5pm.

What will happen after consultation?

Once we have received all your comments we will carefully consider these and make any adjustments considered necessary. We will notify you of any boundary changes that affect your property, and our response to any suggestions will be reported to the council’s Executive Committee. A decision is expected in early 2012.