Poole residents can have their say on heritage plans

Planning and heritage specialist James Edwards, from commercial property firm Colliers International, is calling on residents, occupiers and property owners in Poole to comment on proposals being drawn up by Borough of Poole.

The council is seeking to consolidate conservation areas in the Old Town, Quay and High Street, extending them into adjoining areas to protect several historic sites considered of significant architectural value, such as old buildings like Scaplens Court and the Guildhall.

“Protecting our heritage and historic townscape is vitally important as once it has gone or been irrevocably altered it cannot be reinstated,” said Mr Edwards.

“Conservation areas form the backbone of a great many town centres and their protection and expansion can be seen as a considerable benefit to those who live and own property within them.”

Mr Edwards, who advises property owners on the implications of conservation area status, said the council’s aim to extend the designation would support property values by protecting key areas from development.

“Conservation area designation provides a bonus selling point as well as generating additional interest from potential purchasers and occupiers,” he said.

He warned it could carry implications for change of use or the redevelopment of premises around the Dolphin Shopping Centre, Lighthouse and also the Quay.

The proposals also aim to improve the network of ancient alleys and lanes in the town centre, which the Rotary Club of Poole Bay has recently surveyed.

“Poole has a large number of characterful buildings but they are somewhat scattered around different areas of the town rather than being concentrated in one area.

“Extending the conservation status around the main axis of the town will hopefully improve and conserve Poole’s heritage, as well as enhancing the vitality of the town as a whole.”

Residents have until February 13 to comment on the proposals, which can be found on the website boroughofpoole.com