Improving the conservation of Bushey High Street

The council is proposing a number of changes and improvements to the Bushey High Street Conservation Area and we want to know what you think.

One of the main recommendations is to change the boundaries of the area and split it into two separate conservation areas which would mean certain parts would be added and removed from the existing conservation area.  For example, it is proposed that Bushey Golf and Country Club, Kemp Place and Montague Hall Place be removed from the conservation area.  Properties along the north side of the High Street, from Congregation Church to Pearl House would form part of the new Melbourne Road Conservation Area as well as properties on Melbourne Road itself.  This would include the main buildings and landscapes associated with the Bushey School of Art and Sir Hubert von Herkomer.
 
Other recommendations include:

• the production of generic design guidance to help steer development
• tightened enforcement controls to better manage adverts on shop fronts
• the introduction of a controlled parking zone for the High Street, subject to the support of local residents and businesses
• reducing the amount of street clutter i.e. unnecessary signs
• a shop front and upper floor improvement grants scheme
• protecting the trees within the grounds of Bushey Hall School with a tree preservation order. 

These suggestions follow a formal appraisal of the area last year.  This involved a comprehensive survey of the area, detailed research into the history of the area and consultation with local residents and other interested parties.  The report is 140 pages and includes over 100 photos which reflects the fact that Bushey High Street Conservation Area is one of the largest in the borough and possibly the most diverse in character.

• See the full document - Bushey High Street Conservation Area Appraisal: Suggested boundary changes and management proposals

Please send your comments to us by Monday 24 November - email planning@hertsmere.gov.uk or write to:

Policy and Transport Team - Bushey CA
Hertsmere Borough Council
Civic Offices
Elstree Way
Borehamwood
Herts
WD6 1WA
 
The council is also currently working on a formal appraisal of the Radlett Conservation Area - the findings are expected early next year.