C. Preservation of Heritage Assets

cation of the results. C. Preservation of Heritage Assets The Local Planning Authority will use its statutory powers to secure the preservation of buildings and other heritage assets that are deemed to be at risk by the national and local heritage at risk registers. Policy Justification 7.3.2 South Warwickshire has a rich and diverse historic environment that makes a substantial contribution to the social, environmental and economic value of the area. 7.3.3 The importance of the historic environment to life within South Warwickshire cannot be understated. Our heritage assets provide a unique visual and cultural identity to the area that contributes to a sense of place for residents, and in many cases offer valuable opportunities for recreation and leisure, along with learning and development of people of all ages. 7.3.4 The significance and breadth of heritage assets within South Warwickshire also creates a considerable draw for visitors. World renowned assets such as Warwick Castle and William Shakespeare’s family homes, amongst others, help to sustain the visitor economy and contribute to the economic prosperity of the area. 7.3.5 In this context the importance of conserving the historic environment is clear, however there are also statutory requirements that must be adhered to. The Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 provides specific protection for buildings and areas of special architectural or historic interest, whilst the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979 provide specific protection for scheduled monuments. Proposals must be in accordance with the relevant legislation as well as policies. 7.3.6 In respect of national policy, the NPPF explains that heritage assets are an irreplaceable resource and emphasises the need to conserve them in appropriate manners so they may be enjoyed by current and future generations. As required by the NPPF this policy sets out a positive strategy for the conservation and enjoyment of the historic environment. 7.3.7 The first part of the policy supports development where it responds positively to the historic environment. In many cases new development can provide opportunities and funding streams to conserve heritage assets and may also allow assets to be better revealed, understood and enjoyed. However, the impact of new development on the significance of heritage assets must be assessed as part of any proposal to ensure that any negative impacts can be understood and balanced against the public benefits of a scheme. 7.3.8 New development affecting the historic environment will be expected to be carefully designed with particular attention paid to the principles of scale, height, massing, alignment and the use of appropriate materials. In particular, for listed buildings, traditional materials and appropriate colours and finishes will be required unless very exceptional circumstances are demonstrated. The use of uPVC windows, artificial roofing slates, plastic rainwater goods and the application of inappropriate colours are common examples of unsuitable materials. Further advice will be provided in future Technical Guidance. 7.3.9 The impact of new development, whether that be new buildings or structures, or alterations to existing ones, is not confined to physical impact on historic fabric, but also includes the impact on the setting on heritage assets. New buildings and alterations to existing buildings should be designed to respect the setting of listed buildings and other heritage assets. 7.3.10 It is acknowledged that the protection of listed buildings may not be consistent with the need to promote accessibility and inclusion. Applicants will be expected to demonstrate how they have sought to reasonably balance these competing objectives. 7.3.11 The second part of the policy considers how harm to or loss of heritage assets will be considered. The criteria identified are consistent with the NPPF requirements. Reference in the policy to other exceptional circumstances means the criteria identified in the NPPF (paragraph 214). 7.3.12 The final part of the policy deals with heritage assets that are at risk, either identified locally or nationally. The Councils have a range of powers under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 to protect historic buildings including serving repair notices and urgent works notices. The Councils will apply these powers where necessary to secure the conservation of relevant heritage assets. Policy Justification Conservation Areas 7.3.13 Conservation areas are designated historic assets and have an important role to play in maintaining the quality of the environment in South Warwickshire. The Local Planning Authorities have a duty imposed on it under Section 69 of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 to designate as conservation areas any “areas of special architectural or historic interest the character and appearance of which it is