Cherwell District Council is reappraising the conservation area and presented its proposals at an exhibition and public meeting in Hethe on Tuesday, 27 March. The appraisal document is available here.
In addition to the proposed changes to the Conservation Area, you should be aware that the council are seeking agreement to the designation of many none listed buildings as Local Heritage Assets or Article 4 Directions (Appendix 3 & 4 of the appraisal). These both have an impact on changes to houses within the Conservation Area. Houses which are currently listed are shown here.
The Appraisal Questionnaire must be returned to the District Council before Friday 27 April.
The conservation area aims to protect and improve the special historic character of the village, but has not been consulted on for over 20 years. The appraisal proposes to designate further buildings for protection and introduces a new management plan. The consultation ensures that residents’ views are reflected in the conservation area’s provisions.
Cllr Colin Clarke, Cherwell’s lead member for planning, said: “It is important that we continue to re-evaluate conservation areas to ensure they are properly looked after, and that significant elements are recognised and preserved correctly.
Our officers will work closely with residents to make sure the villagers of Hethe have their voices heard, and their opinions considered. It is important that people have a say on these changes before they become a reality.
The consultation will give villagers the opportunity to comment on the proposed changes, which so far include an analysis of the special character and appearance of the village, and an assessment of buildings for inclusion on the Local List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Importance.
The conservation area was first designated in 1988 but has not been appraised since 1993. Those unable to attend the exhibition and public meeting will be able to view the draft appraisal online and people are invited to submit any comments before Friday, 27 April.
The leaflet below gives further detail.
Hethe advertisement leaflet final
