The Principal Conservation Officer explained that the re-establishment of a programme for the preparation of conservation area appraisals and management plans was proposed for a two-year period.  There were 41 designated Conservation Areas in Maidstone Borough, of which 13 had an appraisal, management plan, or both.  A prioritised list for producing appraisals and management plans had been compiled, including high priority actions from existing management plans.

The Committee commented that it was beneficial for Officers to proactively share a framework with parties who were interested in assisting with the development of Conservation Area appraisals.  Furthermore, it was suggested that Officers consider whether the rationale for work, such as the proposal for Yalding, was still applicable and reprioritise the allocation of resource if appropriate.

RESOLVED: That:

1.  The work programme and priorities for conservation area appraisal and management plans for the period 2019 to 2021, set out in paragraph 2.10, be agreed.

2.  Delegated authority be granted to the Head of Planning and Development to effect proposed boundary alterations to Boughton Monchelsea The Green and The Quarries Conservation Areas, following consultation with affected bodies and landowners.

3.  Early work be undertaken to issue a framework/template to interested parties who are able to assist in developing Conservation Area appraisal plans.

4.  Officers are asked to consider opportunities to vary priorities where events have overtaken them.

Voting: Unanimous