Cllr Geoffrey Theobald

Brighton & Hove City Council has drawn up detailed planning guidance on the need to retain and restore the appearance of the city’s Regency, Victorian and Edwardian buildings, covering everything from bay windows and balconies, to paths, porches, roofs and railings.
 
The new ‘Architectural Features’ supplementary planning document is aimed at owners of listed buildings and other historic buildings situated in the city’s numerous conservation areas.
 
Representatives from city heritage groups were invited to comment on the initial proposals along with local architects and surveyors, and many of their comments have been incorporated in the final draft.
 
English Heritage described the document as ‘ambitious’ and ‘worthwhile’, and the Brighton and Kemp Town Societies, Rottingdean Preservation Society and Save Hove Group have all welcomed the proposals, subject to various comments.
 
The document focuses on the original external architectural features of buildings that give them historic character and add to the attractiveness of the street scene, from roofs and walls to doors and windows.
 
It clearly sets out the designs and materials likely to be acceptable to council planners when considering plans to repair and restore historic buildings in the city. The advice should provide building owners with a smoother transition through the planning process and reduce the risk of mistakes being made and work having to be rectified.
 
Councillor  Geoffrey Theobald, Cabinet Member for Environment, said:
“Historic buildings give Brighton & Hove its distinct character and appearance, and are part of the city’s cultural heritage. They also attract visitors to the city, making an important contribution to the local economy.
 
“It is essential that owners of these buildings get the proper advice and information when restoring and repairing their properties to help preserve them for future generations.”
 
The document was considered by Cllr Theobald at his Environment Cabinet meeting on December 17 and, if approved, will be available on the council’s website early in the New Year.

For more information about Brighton and Hove Council view:
www.brighton-hove.gov.uk