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Appeal decision protects Tweedmouth Conservation Area

Release date: 29.09.08
Ref: BBC/PR/R&D/20/08

The Planning Inspectorate has dismissed two appeals, against Berwick-upon-Tweed Borough Council for failing to determine joint applications for listed building consent and planning permission within eight weeks. This has highlighted the importance of work recently undertaken by the Council to draw up a specific Character Appraisal and Management Strategy for the Tweedmouth Conservation Area.

In dismissing both appeals, Planning Inspector Wenda Fabian concluded that the main issues were the effect of the proposals on the character and appearance of the Conservation Area and the living conditions of neighbouring and future residents of the scheme.

The Conservation Area Character Appraisal identifies the site, at Mill Strand, as an important commercial yard, and supports its sensitive development. However the Inspector concludes that the development proposed by the applicant, Mr. S. Eltringham, “would crowd the courtyard, fundamentally alter its previous proportions and seem out of balance with the single storey cottage opposite at the other end of the yard.”

Commenting on the impact of the development on neighbouring properties Ms. Fabian stated that the layout and design of the proposed buildings would lead to “a strong impression of overlooking and increase the sense of enclosure for neighbouring residents” and that “in this location, where dwellings are tightly crowded together … any sense of space, light and privacy are at a premium”. She concluded that the proposed development “would harm the character and appearance of the Tweedmouth Conservation Area and the living conditions of future residents in relation to outlook.”

Peter Rutherford, Acting Head of Development Services with Berwick-upon-Tweed Borough Council said:
“The Borough Council is pleased that the Inspector has recognised the importance of Tweedmouth’s heritage, which is documented in our Conservation Area Character Appraisal and was the subject of local consultation. This decision will help the authority and its successor to strengthen the quality of design in the Conservation Area.”