Agenda item

(a)       That the content of the report be noted and the Built Conservation service outcomes listed in paragraph 3.16 be endorsed; and

(b)       That the development of a Local Heritage Strategy for Flintshire be supported.

The Planning Strategy Manager introduced a report to raise awareness of the issues, options and approaches involved in the management and protection of heritage assets by the Council’s Built Conservation team and to endorse the principle of the development of a Local Heritage Strategy.

As part of the background detail, information was provided on the different types of heritage assets and the classification of listed buildings/ structures.  A survey utilising funding from Cadw had determined which listed buildings were at risk and to what extent.  The last survey undertaken in 2011 had identified 133 buildings/structures in Flintshire to be at risk, some of which posed more significant concern than others, together with a further 136 which were deemed ‘vulnerable’.

As reflected in the mid-year performance report, the Planning Strategy Manager referred to concerns around the implications of the Heritage Bill in respect of additional responsibilities for Local Authorities, with no clarity given on resources and funding.  Despite the financial challenges, the report reflected positive elements in terms of resources and the proactive approach being taken by the Built Conservation team towards the protection and preservation of buildings at risk.  The departure of one employee following acceptance of a voluntary redundancy request meant that two qualified conservation officers remained in the team: this level of expertise was considered sufficient in comparison to other North Wales Authorities.  Within the aims of the service, the development of a Local Heritage Strategy would bring together components which were already in place.

The Senior Planner delivered a presentation showing photographs of the case study ‘at risk’ examples listed in the report and describing actions taken.

In referring to the challenges around funding, Councillor Mike Peers suggested alternative routes such as charging for services/expertise and seeking contributions from Town and Community Councils who may consider these local assets to be of importance.  He added that the listed buildings/ structures could be categorised according to their importance within the county to target funding where it was most needed.

In recognition of the pressures on Local Authorities, the Planning Strategy Manager stated the intention was to look at charging options as well as continuing to pursue funding bids and identify innovative ways of exploring other sources of funding, eg  Cadwyn Clwyd and building preservation trusts.  He went on to say that a pragmatic approach would need to be taken to the possible de-listing of some buildings and that there was potential for discussions with Town and Community Councils on contributions or community working initiatives.

Councillor Peter Curtis felt it was important to allocate the limited funding on projects which were considered viable.

In response to queries raised by Councillor Haydn Bateman on the Bathhouse in Cilcain, the Planning Strategy Manager explained that there was no economical viable use for conversion and that Section 106 monies could not be utilised in this case.  On a further query, he advised that different legislation covered the protection of ancient hedgerows.

The Chair said it was important to recognise the amount of heritage assets within Flintshire.

RESOLVED:

(a)       That the content of the report be noted and the Built Conservation service outcomes listed in paragraph 3.16 be endorsed; and

(b)       That the development of a Local Heritage Strategy for Flintshire be supported.