News Have your say on protecting Maidstone’s heritage

Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) would like feedback on the draft overarching Conservation Area Management Plan 2024 before a final version is adopted. The council wants to hear from local residents and anyone who works in or visits the Maidstone borough.

Conservation Areas help to manage and protect the special architectural and historic interest of a place and the features that make it unique, making sure there is high quality building and good development. Maidstone has 41 conservation areas across the borough and there are around 10,000 in England.

Come along to a public meeting to find out more. Officers will be available to discuss the draft plan and receive feedback.

Attend one of the following public drop-in sessions:

Tuesday 23 April - Detling Village Hall – 3.30pm to 6.30pm

Wednesday 24 April - Maidstone Town Hall – 3.30pm to 6.30pm

Wednesday 1 May - Staplehurst Community Centre – 3.30pm to 6pm

MBC has a duty under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 to designate areas they believe are of special architectural or historic interest, where it is desirable to preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the area.

Conservation Areas in Maidstone have special value for communities and for the whole of the borough. They form visible links with the past and offer beautiful surroundings, so it is important to make sure the special characteristics of these areas are protected and that appropriate enhancements are encouraged.

The Heritage, Landscape and Trees team within the Council is also required under the same Act to review the designated conservation areas from time to time to see whether there is a case for extending or amending the boundary or, in exceptional circumstances, for de-designation.

When a Conservation Area is designated, the Council has a duty to consider it when deciding on planning proposals. It is important to note that designation is not intended to preclude all change or development, only those which would be harmful to the special character of an area.

Give feedback to the consultation here:

https://letstalkmaidstone.uk.engagementhq.com/caa-management-plan-2024

The consultation closes 21 May 2024.

All responses to the consultation will be analysed and feedback will be used to shape the final plan.

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