WILDLIFE HABITATS CONSERVATION

SPECIES

 

EXHIBITS    FRIENDS    HERITAGE    HOME    LIME PARK    OPEN DAYS    PARKING    TECHNOLOGY

 

 

In Wealden 47% of CO2 comes from transport, with another 35% from housing. Yet, despite declaring a Climate Emergency, sustainable timber flatpacks are non existent in the District, as are charging points for EVs on newbuilds or along the high streets and in car parks. Two obvious ways of lowering carbon footprints. To many councils, conservation laws and protection of wildlife, human rights, etc., are not sacrosanct, but something they look to overcome. It should of course be the other way around. Conservation, wildlife and human rights should come first!

 

 

 

 

 

The developers of the field at Lime Cross in Herstmonceux have applied for a pipe to drain the field of natural surface water, through a pipe (presumably) under Church Road or Chapel Row, into a field on the opposite side of the road, into Lime End Farm.

 

This will have the effect of starving the two long established ponds in Lime Park of water, eventually starving those ponds that are reliant on the water from the adjacent field to keep: Ducks, Moorhens, Toads, Herons, Fish and Great Crested Newts alive. We wonder if a proper study has been carried out, where Southern Water demolished Badger Sets, claiming to have conducted a study. But in fact that study was defective, and the company have refused (so far) to provide a copy for inspection.

 

We would urge residents of Herstmonceux Village, who might be concerned as to over development, the loss of dog walking and most of all, the threat to wildlife, to write to Wealden District Council in the following (suggested) terms:

 

We are off to a running start in January 2025, where the developers of the field at Lime Cross in Herstmonceux have applied for a pipe to drain the field of natural surface water, through a pipe (presumably) under Church Road or Chapel Row, into a field on the opposite side of the road, into Lime End Farm.

 

 

 

   

 

 

A pond habitat has to be mature to support Herons and Ducks. This picture is of a Heron in Lime Park. In the second pond, there are Great Crested Newts. The area also features Toads, Fish and Moorhens. A Heron was seen on ice this (January) when the pond froze over. Our conservationist was too slow to get a picture.

 

 

 

   

 

 

These pictures were taken of a toad in Lime Park in September 2022. They are a regular feature in Lime Park, somehow finding their way into an outbuilding at the Museum every year, and they are most welcome.

 

Toads spend most of their adult lives on land, only returning to ponds to breed. It's natural for them to explore and inhabit terrestrial habitats, including areas near human dwellings.

Toads have permeable skin and are prone to drying out. Outbuildings, especially those with damp areas, crevices, or shaded spots, provide ideal refuge from the sun and dry air. They offer a cool, humid environment that helps toads retain moisture.

During the colder months, toads seek safe and frost-free places to hibernate. Outbuildings, such as sheds, garages, and cellars, can offer suitable overwintering sites, with spaces under floorboards, in piles of wood, or within cracks in walls. The field and Museum building is also home to Bumble Bees, and the surrounding trees; Bats.

 

 

 

 

Latimer Homes and Clarion Housing Group applied in October 2024, their application was held to be valid on the 18th of December 2024. At time of writing we are thus in the 'Consultation' period, ending on the 7th February 2025. After which any objections will not be considered. Time is thus of the essence, if you want your views to be counted!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This will have the effect of starving the two long established ponds in Lime Park of water, eventually starving those ponds that are reliant on the water from the adjacent field to keep: Ducks, Moorhens, Toads, Herons, Fish and Great Crested Newts alive. We wonder if a proper study has been carried out, where Southern Water demolished Badger Sets, claiming to have conducted a study. But in fat that study was defective, and the company have refused (so far) to provide a copy for inspection.

 

We would urge residents of Herstmonceux Village, who might be concerned as to over development, the loss of dog walking and most of all, the threat to wildlife, to write to Wealden District Council in the following (suggested) terms:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Official government advice is to refuse applications with the potential to harm protected species, but if nobody objects, proposals that are defective in terms of surveys, etc., are likely to be passed. So, please, if you like the local ecology and would prefer that the wildlife presently enjoyed is conserved for future generations, write to your local member, and/or Wealden District Council's planning department to have your say.

 

 

 

 

Dear Councillors Planning Officers & Chief Executive,

 

 

FORMAL LETTER OF OBJECTION: PLANNING APPLICATION NUMBER: WD/2024/2257/MAJ


I/we am/are writing to express our strongest possible objections to the proposed diversion of surface water from the field adjacent to the pond network at Lime Park. This proposal poses a severe threat to the established ecosystem, local heritage, and amenity value of this unique site.

This network of ponds has been sustained for over 40 years by surface water runoff from the adjacent field. This established flow of water has become a prescriptive right under the Prescription Act 1832, meaning that the continued flow of water cannot be legally obstructed after such a long period of uninterrupted use.

 

The same prescriptive right applies to dog walkers, who use, and have carved out additional paths circumnavigating and criss-crossing the field, about which the Footpath Warden appears to have been unwilling to update your Council's records. Such footpaths being enjoyed for over 40 years.

 

Diverting this water source will have a devastating impact on the ponds, likely leading to their desiccation and the destruction of the established ecosystem.

We are deeply concerned about the impact on protected species, including ducks, toads, moorhens, herons, and great crested newts, which are known to inhabit the ponds.  The proposed development could be in breach of the following legislation, and potentially illegal, with those involved in any grant of permission, becoming accessories to any wildlife crime, as per the Abettors Act of 1861:

- Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended)

 

- Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 

Furthermore, we believe the proposed diversion infringes upon the rights of those affected under the Human Rights Act 1998:

- Article 8 (Right to respect for private and family life, home and correspondence): The ponds and surrounding environment form an integral part of the local community's enjoyment of the area, impacting their private and family life.

- Protocol 1, Article 1 (Protection of property): The established ecosystem and the amenity value of the ponds contribute to the value of surrounding properties and represent a form of "possession" that should be protected.

Critically, the pond network is an integral part of the setting of a unique local heritage asset: the only surviving early electricity generating station from circa 1896. This building is a significant historical landmark, and its setting, including the ponds and surrounding landscape, contributes significantly to its historical and architectural significance. Also, a potential future UNESCO world heritage site. The rural setting and surrounding countryside are part of the charm of the technology that nestles in this estate, as a time capsule. This historical and environmental context may well be protected by other conservation law, and that is now under threat. The proposed diversion would severely compromise this historical setting and diminish the heritage value of the site.

We urge you to immediately reconsider the proposed surface water diversion and conduct a thorough and independent ecological and heritage impact assessment. This assessment must consider the long-term impact on the pond ecosystem, protected species, the established water flow rights under the Prescription Act, human rights considerations, and the impact on the setting of the historic generating station.

We demand a full consultation with all stakeholders, including local residents, heritage organizations, and environmental groups, to find a solution that protects this invaluable natural and historical asset. We are prepared to pursue all available legal avenues to protect this important site.

Yours sincerely,


Concerned of Herstmonceux
[Your name and address]

 

 

 

 

 

THE TWO ENDANGERED PONDS - ALREADY SUFFERING FROM A LOSS OF WATER FLOW DUE TO CLIMATE CHANGE, THE PROPOSAL TO DIVERT SURFACE WATER FROM THE ADJACENT FIELD IS TANTAMOUNT TO A DEATH SENTENCE FOR THE FLORA AND FAUNA THAT PRESENTLY ENJOYS THE HABITAT. YOU CAN WALK THE FIELDS AND SEE POND NUMBER ONE, THAT FEEDS POND NUMBER TWO - WHICH IS NOT VISIBLE FROM PUBLIC FOOTPATHS. BUT AS YOU CAN SEE, GOOGLE MAPS SHOWS THESE BODIES OF WATER - WHICH YOU CAN CHECK FOR YOURSELVES. THESE ARE THE SAME GEOGRAPHICAL AREA, IN DIFFERENT VIEWS: MAPS & SATELLITE.

 

 

THE TWO ENDANGERED PONDS - ALREADY SUFFERING FROM A LOSS OF WATER FLOW DUE TO CLIMATE CHANGE, THE PROPOSAL TO DIVERT SURFACE WATER FROM THE ADJACENT FIELD IS TANTAMOUNT TO A DEATH SENTENCE FOR THE FLORA AND FAUNA THAT PRESENTLY ENJOYS THE HABITAT. YOU CAN WALK THE FIELDS AND SEE POND NUMBER ONE, THAT FEEDS POND NUMBER TWO - WHICH IS NOT VISIBLE FROM PUBLIC FOOTPATHS. BUT AS YOU CAN SEE, GOOGLE MAPS SHOWS THESE BODIES OF WATER - WHICH YOU CAN CHECK FOR YOURSELVES. THESE ARE THE SAME GEOGRAPHICAL AREA, IN DIFFERENT VIEWS: MAPS & SATELLITE.

 

 

 

 

POISON WATER SUPPLY - THEN THERE IS THE MATTER OF THE ANCIENT WELL THAT IS THE ONLY SOURCE OF WATER FOR HERSTMONCEUX MUSEUM, THE PROPOSED HOUSES, CONTAMINATION FROM HERBICIDES, PESTICIDES AND HYDROCARBONS IS A CRIMINAL VIOLATION OF THE 'OFFENCES AGAINST THE PERSON ACT OF 1861' SECTIONS 23 AND 24 - IN THE MAKING. ALL THOSE HELPING THE OWNERS OF THE FIELD SUPPLYING THE WELL, MIGHT WELL BE GUILTY OF A CONSPIRACY IN THE MATTER.

 

 

POISON WATER SUPPLY - THEN THERE IS THE MATTER OF THE ANCIENT WELL THAT IS THE ONLY SOURCE OF WATER FOR HERSTMONCEUX MUSEUM, THE PROPOSED HOUSES, CONTAMINATION FROM HERBICIDES, PESTICIDES AND HYDROCARBONS IS A CRIMINAL VIOLATION OF THE 'OFFENCES AGAINST THE PERSON ACT OF 1861' SECTIONS 23 AND 24 - IN THE MAKING. ALL THOSE HELPING THE OWNERS OF THE FIELD SUPPLYING THE WELL, MIGHT WELL BE GUILTY OF A CONSPIRACY IN THE MATTER.

 

 

 

 

Please copy and paste this draft into your word processing document, and modify as you see fit, so as to be comfortable with the language used. Please see the links below to the applicable law (statute & regulations). And be warned, both Statutes and Regulations are very long and complicated. Reading will take some time, thus try to look only at the applicable sections.

 

Thank you all in advance, for your time looking at this extremely important local issue. : )

 

 

 

 

 

 

Now that is what we call rewilding. The oak tree in the middle of this field, and others dotted around the perimeter have been seeding rather well. The tall grass and other shrubs are providing homes for much wildlife. The hope is that, apart from footpaths and historic rights of way, that this becomes a focal point for family walks, ramblers, hikers and dog walkers in the village of Herstmonceux.

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE WILDLIFE AND COUNTRYSIDE ACT 1981

 

1981 CHAPTER 69

 

An Act to repeal and re-enact with amendments the Protection of Birds Acts 1954 to 1967 and the Conservation of Wild Creatures and Wild Plants Act 1975; to prohibit certain methods of killing or taking wild animals; to amend the law relating to protection of certain mammals; to restrict the introduction of certain animals and plants; to amend the Endangered Species (Import and Export) Act 1976; to amend the law relating to nature conservation, the countryside and National Parks and to make provision with respect to the Countryside Commission; to amend the law relating to public rights of way; and for connected purposes.

[30th October 1981]

Be it enacted by the Queen's most Excellent Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Lords Spiritual and Temporal, and Commons, in this present Parliament assembled, and by the authority of the same, as follows: —

 

PART I Wildlife

Protection of birds

1. Protection of wild birds, their nests and eggs

2. Exceptions to s. 1

3. Areas of special protection

4.Exceptions to ss. 1 and 3

5. Prohibition of certain methods of killing or taking wild birds

6. Sale etc. of live or dead wild birds, eggs etc.

7. Registration etc. of certain captive wild birds

8. Protection of captive birds

Protection of other animals

9. Protection of certain wild animals

10.Exceptions to s. 9

11.Prohibition of certain methods of killing or taking wild animals

12. Protection of certain mammals

Protection of plants

13. Protection of wild plants

Miscellaneous

14. Introduction of new species etc.

15. Endangered species (import and export)

Supplemental

16. Power to grant licences

17. False statements made for obtaining registration or licence etc.

18. Attempts to commit offences etc.

19. Enforcement

20. Summary prosecutions

21. Penalties, forfeitures etc.

22. Power to vary Schedules

23. Advisory bodies and their functions

24. Functions of Nature Conservancy Council

25. Functions of local authorities

26. Regulations, orders, notices etc.

27. Interpretation of Part I

 

PART II Nature Conservation, Countryside and National Parks

Nature conservation

28. Areas of special scientific interest

29. Special protection for certain areas of special scientific interest

30. Compensation where order is made under s. 29

31. Restoration where order under s. 29 is contravened

32. Duties of agriculture Ministers with respect to areas of special scientific interest

33. Ministerial guidance as respects areas of special scientific interest

34. Limestone pavement orders

35. National nature reserves

36. Marine nature reserves

37. Byelaws for protection of marine nature reserves

38. Grants and loans by Nature Conservancy Council

Countryside

39. Management agreements with owners and occupiers of land

40. Experimental schemes

41. Duties of agriculture Ministers with respect to the countryside

National Parks

42. Notification of agricultural operations on moor and heath in National Parks

43. Maps of National Parks showing certain areas of moor or heath

44. Grants and loans for purposes of National Parks

45. Power to vary order designating National Park

46. Membership of National Park authorities

Miscellaneous and supplemental

47. Provisions with respect to the Countryside Commission

48. Duties of water authorities etc. with respect to nature conservation and the countryside

49. Extension of power to appoint wardens

50. Payments under certain agreements offered by authorities

51. Powers of entry

52. Interpretation of Part II

PART III Public Rights of Way

Ascertainment of public rights of way

53. Duty to keep definitive map and statement under continuous review

54. Duty to reclassify roads used as public paths

55. No further surveys or reviews under the 1949 Act

56. Effect of definitive map and statement

57. Supplementary provisions as to definitive maps and statements

58. Application of ss. 53 to 57 to inner London

Miscellaneous and supplemental

59. Prohibition on keeping bulls on land crossed by public rights of way

60. Regulation of traffic on public rights of way

61. Ploughing of public rights of way

62. Appointment of wardens for public rights of way

63. Orders creating, extinguishing or diverting footpaths and bridleways

64. Publication of dedication of footpaths and bridleways

65. Signposting of byways open to all traffic

66. Interpretation of Part III

PART IV Miscellaneous and General

67. Application to Crown

68. Application to the Isles of Scilly

69. Offences by bodies corporate etc.

70. Financial provisions

71. General interpretation

72. Minor amendments

73. Repeals and savings

74. Short title, commencement and extent

SCHEDULES

SCHEDULE 1 Birds which are Protected by Special Penalties
SCHEDULE 2 Birds Which May Be Killed or Taken
SCHEDULE 3 Birds which may be Sold
SCHEDULE 4 Birds Which Must Be Registered and Ringed if Kept in Captivity
SCHEDULE 5 Animals which are Protected
SCHEDULE 6 Animals which may not be Killed or Taken by Certain Methods
SCHEDULE 7 PROTECTION OF CERTAIN MAMMALS
SCHEDULE 8 Plants which are Protected
SCHEDULE 9 Animals and plants to which section 14 applies
SCHEDULE 10 Amendments of the Endangered Species (Import and Export) Act 1976
SCHEDULE 11 Procedure in connection with Certain Orders under Part II
SCHEDULE 12 Procedure in Connection With Orders Under Section 36
SCHEDULE 13 Provisions With Respect to the Countryside Commission
SCHEDULE 14 Applications for Certain Orders Under Part III
SCHEDULE 15 Procedure in Connection with Certain Orders Under Part III
SCHEDULE 16 Orders Creating, Extinguishing or Diverting Footpaths or Bridleways
SCHEDULE 17 Enactments Repealed

 

 

 

 

 

THE CONSERVATION OF SPECIES AND HABITATS REGULATIONS 2017

 

Statutory Instruments

2017 No. 1012


Wildlife

Countryside

 

Made 30th October 2017
Laid before Parliament 31st October 2017
Laid before the National Assembly for Wales 31st October 2017
Coming into force 30th November 2017

 

 

The Secretary of State is designated (1) for the purposes of section 2(2) of the European Communities Act 1972 (2) in relation to the environment, and the Welsh Ministers are designated (3) for those purposes in relation to the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora.

The Secretary of State and the Welsh Ministers make these Regulations in exercise of the powers conferred on them by section 2(2) of the European Communities Act 1972 and paragraph 1A of Schedule 2 to that Act (4), and by section 307 (3) and (5) of the Criminal Justice Act 2003 (5).

These Regulations make provision for a purpose mentioned in section 2(2) of the European Communities Act 1972 and it appears to the Secretary of State and to the Welsh Ministers that it is expedient for any reference in these Regulations to an Annex to Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora (6) to be construed as a reference to that Annex as amended from time to time.

 

PART 1 Introductory and General Provisions

1. Citation and commencement

2. Extent

3. Interpretation

4. Plans or projects relating to offshore marine area or offshore marine installations

5. Nature conservation bodies

6. Relevant authorities in relation to marine areas and European marine sites

7. Competent authorities

8. European sites and European marine sites

9. Duties relating to compliance with the Directives

10. Duties in relation to wild bird habitat

 

11. Review by appropriate nature conservation body


PART 2 Conservation of Natural Habitats and Habitats of Species

European sites

12. Selection of sites eligible for identification as of Community importance

13. Designation of special areas of conservation

14. Consultation as to inclusion of site omitted from the list

15. Classification of sites as special protection areas

16. Notification of a proposal to classify a special protection area

Register of European sites

17. Register of European sites

18. Notification of changes to the register

19. Notice to landowners and other bodies

Management agreements

20. Management agreements

21. Existing agreements

22. Certain payments under management agreements

Control of potentially damaging operations

23. Notification of potentially damaging operations

24. Assessment of implications for European sites

25. Sites of special scientific interest which become European sites: duty to review

26. Farm capital grants

Special nature conservation orders

27. Power to make special nature conservation order

28. Restriction on carrying out operations specified in order

29. Assessment of implications for European sites after service of stop notice

30. Compensation for effect of stop notice

31. Restoration orders

Byelaws

32. Power to make byelaws

33. Byelaws: supplementary provisions

34. Compensation for effect of byelaws

35. Continuation in force of existing byelaws

Powers of compulsory acquisition

36. Powers of compulsory acquisition

European marine sites

37. Marking of site and advice by nature conservation bodies

38. Management scheme for European marine site

39. Direction to establish or amend management scheme

40. European marine sites: byelaws and orders

Nature conservation policy in planning contexts

41. Nature conservation policy in planning contexts


PART 3 Protection of species

Protection of animals

42. European protected species of animals

43. Protection of certain wild animals: offences

44. Protection of certain wild animals: defences

45. Prohibition of certain methods of capturing or killing wild animals

Protection of plants

46. European protected species of plants

47. Protection of certain wild plants: offences

48. Protection of certain wild plants: defences

Interpretation of Part 3

49. Interpretation of Part 3


PART 4 Additional protection of habitats and wild animals and plants

Surveillance and monitoring

50. Surveillance of conservation status of habitats and species

51. Protection of certain animals and plants from exploitation

52. Monitoring of incidental capture and killing

53. Protection from incidental capture and killing

Introduction of new species

54. Introduction of new species from ships


PART 5 Licences

Grant of licences

55. Licences for certain activities relating to animals or plants

56. Licences for the introduction of new species

57. Licences: general provisions

Relevant licensing body

58. Relevant licensing body

Offences

59. False statements made for obtaining licence

60. Offence of breaching licence condition


PART 6 Assessment of plans and projects

CHAPTER 1 General provisions


Introductory provisions

61. Interpretation of Part 6

62. Application of provisions of Chapter 1

General provisions for protection of European sites and European offshore marine sites

63. Assessment of implications for European sites and European offshore marine sites

64. Considerations of overriding public interest

65. Review of existing decisions and consents

66. Consideration on review

67. Co-ordination where more than one competent authority involved

68. Compensatory measures

69. Modifications of regulations 63 to 68 in certain cases

CHAPTER 2 Planning

Planning permission

70. Grant of planning permission

71. Planning permission: duty to review

72. Planning permission: consideration on review

73. Planning permission: effect of orders made on review

74. Planning permission: compensation

General development orders

75. General development orders

76. General development orders: opinion of appropriate nature conservation body

77. General development orders: approval of local planning authority

78. General development orders: supplementary

Special development orders

79. Special development orders

Local development orders

80. Local development orders

Neighbourhood development orders


81. Neighbourhood development orders

Simplified planning zones and enterprise zones

82.Simplified planning zones

83. Enterprise zones

Development consent under Planning Act 2008

84. Grant of development consent

85. Development consent: review

Interpretation of Chapter 2

86. Interpretation of Chapter 2

CHAPTER 3 Highways and roads

87. Construction or improvement of highways or roads

88. Cycle tracks and other ancillary works

CHAPTER 4 Electricity

89. Consents under Electricity Act 1989: application of assessment and review provisions

90. Consents under Electricity Act 1989: procedure on review

91. Consents under Electricity Act 1989: effect of review

92. Consents under Electricity Act 1989: compensation

CHAPTER 5 Pipe-lines

93. Authorisations under Pipe-lines Act 1962: application of assessment and review provisions

94. Authorisations under Pipe-lines Act 1962: procedure on review

95. Authorisations under Pipe-lines Act 1962: effect of review

96. Authorisations under Pipe-lines Act 1962: compensation

CHAPTER 6 Transport and Works

97. Orders under Transport and Works Act 1992: application of assessment and review provisions

98. Orders under Transport and Works Act 1992: procedure on review

99. Orders under Transport and Works Act 1992: effect of review

100. Orders under Transport and Works Act 1992: compensation

CHAPTER 7 Environmental Controls
 

101. Environmental permits

102. Abstraction and works authorised under water legislation

103. Marine works

104. Derogations in relation to nitrate pollution prevention legislation

CHAPTER 8 Land Use Plans

Land use plans

105. Assessment of implications for European sites and European offshore marine sites

106. Assessment of implications for European site: neighbourhood development plans

107. Considerations of overriding public interest

108. Co-ordination for land use plan prepared by more than one authority

109. Compensatory measures

Planning Act 2008

110. National policy statements

Interpretation of Chapter 8

111. Interpretation of Chapter 8

 

CHAPTER 9 MARINE POLICY STATEMENTS AND MARINE PLANS

112. Marine policy statement

113. Marine plan


PART 7 Enforcement

Wildlife inspectors

114. Wildlife inspectors

Powers of entry

115. Powers of entry: constables

116. Powers of entry: wildlife inspectors

117. Powers of entry: other authorised persons

Powers of search etc.

118. Constables’ powers of search, etc.

Powers in relation to specimens and samples

119. Powers in relation to samples: constables

120. Powers in relation to specimens and samples: wildlife inspectors

121. Restrictions on taking samples from live specimens

Offences

122. Attempts and possession of means of committing offence

123. Obstruction of persons exercising powers of entry under regulation 117

124. Obstruction in connection with constables’ powers to take samples

125. Offences in connection with wildlife inspectors’ enforcement powers

Codes of practice

126. Codes of practice

Miscellaneous

127. Advice and assistance from nature conservation bodies

128. Forfeiture

129. Proceedings for offences: venue and time limits

130. Offences by bodies corporate etc.

131. Application of criminal offences to the Crown

Interpretation of Part 7

132. Interpretation of Part 7


PART 8 Final Provisions

133. Powers of drainage authorities

134. Advisory role of the Joint Nature Conservation Committee

135. Advisory role of Natural England, the Natural Resources Body for Wales and Scottish Natural Heritage

136. Research

137. Local inquiries

138. Notices

139. Consequential Amendments

140. Revocations

141. Transitional provisions

142. Review: England

Signature

SCHEDULE 1 Special Nature Conservation Orders: Procedure
SCHEDULE 2 European Protected Species of animals
SCHEDULE 3 Excluded populations of certain species
SCHEDULE 4 Animals which may not be captured or killed in certain ways.
SCHEDULE 5 European Protected Species of plants
SCHEDULE 6 Consequential Amendments
SCHEDULE 7 Revocations

Explanatory Note

 

 

PERCENTAGE OF CONSERVATION AREAS IN ENGLAND

 

As of 2019, 2.2% of England making up 2,938 km2 (1,134 sq mi) is a conservation area, 59% of which are rural, and 41% are in urban areas.

The current legislation in England and Wales, the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 (sections 69 and 70), defines the quality of a conservation area as being: "the character or appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance". 

TYPES

Conservation areas can be found across a wide a range of urban and rural UK locations. For example, in the historic centres of town and cities such as Alexandra Palace and Park; model housing estates; historic mining, fishing and transport areas e.g. Crosby Garrett; and rural villages such as Osmotherley.

It is the role of the listed building process to protect individual buildings, and it is common for many listed buildings to also be located within designated conservation areas where those individual buildings make a contribution to the special architectural or historic character of the area.

Current Government planning policy on conservation areas is laid down (for England) mainly in section 12 'Conserving and enhancing the historic environment' of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and (for Wales) in Welsh Office Circular 61/96 – Planning and the Historic Environment: Historic Buildings and Conservation Areas.

There are additional planning controls over certain works carried out within the conservation area. For example, demolition within conservation areas requires consent. The designation does not preclude development from taking place, but does require that developments preserve or enhance the historic character of the area, for example by ensuring that newly constructed buildings are of a high quality design. Conservation area status also removes some permitted development rights that apply in undesignated areas.

In England, conservation area consent was abolished by the ERR Act (1) and replaced with a requirement for planning permission for demolition of a building in a conservation area (1). In Wales, the requirement for conservation area consent remains. The circumstances in which such planning permission is required and the consequences of failing to apply for it when it is needed are the same as applied to conservation area consent.

 

 

 

 

Who has ever heard of a Bakery with electric machinery when horse drawn deliveries were the norm? Herstmonceux had electricity well before most large towns, because of Major Charles de Roemer, who also manufactured seaplanes for the British Admiralty (Royal Navy) in Eastbourne, from 1911 to 1924. Lime Park had the benefit of a stables, coach house and forge for a farrier. A farrier is a specialised blacksmith who makes shoes for horses, out of wrought iron or steel.

 

 


DESIGNATION

Local authorities are chiefly responsible for designating conservation areas. They can designate any area of 'special architectural or historic interest' whose character or appearance is worth protecting or enhancing. Local and regional criteria are used, rather than any national standard. In exceptional circumstances, Historic England can designate conservation areas in London, but it has to consult the relevant Borough Council and obtain the consent of the Secretary of State for Culture Media and Sport. The Secretary of State can also designate in exceptional circumstances – usually where the area is of more than local interest.

Local authorities have additional powers under planning legislation to control changes to buildings in a conservation area that might usually be allowed without planning permission in other locations, for example changing the appearance of windows, adding external cladding or putting up satellite dishes.

Large conservation areas are sometimes subdivided into identity areas, which cover groups of buildings and features having similar character and appearance.

Enforcement of conservation areas varies, dependent on the resources and priorities of the local authority, and many fail to meet expectations. A conservation area may have a conservation area advisory committee, a non-elected body of people, some of whom may be expert, who are concerned about the conservation in the particular area. Historic England maintains an "at risk" register which includes conservation areas.

 

 

 

 

In the King’s speech on the 17th July 2024, important first steps were taken to deliver the new UK Government’s agenda for nature and climate. Advanced renewable energy provision and tackling the cavalier, profit-maximalist approach by water companies that has resulted in four in five of our waterways not being in good ecological condition are front and centre of the plans. And yet, with no nature-focused bill, there is an almost complete lack of priority given to the vital role of nature’s restoration at scale in our nation’s future.

 

 

KING CHARLES - PRO CONSERVATION & RENEWABLES

 

 




PETITION TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR CONSERVATION AREA DESIGNATION


To the Right Honourable [Secretary of State's Name]

Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities

We, the undersigned, respectfully petition for the designation of Lime Park, Herstmonceux, and the adjacent field(s), as Conservation Areas.

Lime Park, with its historic manor house, converted stables, and early electricity generating station, represents a unique and valuable heritage asset. The estate's rich history, coupled with its contribution to technological advancements, makes it a site of significant cultural, scientific and historical importance.

The designation of a Conservation Area would provide essential protection for Lime Park and its surrounding environment. It would help to preserve the character and appearance of the area, ensuring that its unique qualities are maintained for future generations.

We believe that the designation of Lime Park Estate and the adjacent field as a Conservation Area would help to protect these important historic and natural assets. By preserving the character and appearance of the area, we can ensure that future generations can enjoy and benefit from its unique qualities.

 

Key reasons for Conservation Area designation include:

Historical Significance: The early electricity generating station at Lime Park played a pioneering role in the development of electrical power. Its presence contributes to the area's historical and technological heritage.

Architectural Interest: The manor house and converted stables offer examples of architectural styles that reflect the history and evolution of the estate and the transition from horses and carriages, to mechanically propelled vehicles.

Environmental Value: The adjacent field, despite approved planning consent for housing development, is undergoing a successful rewilding process. This contributes to the area's biodiversity and ecological value.

 

Tourism Potential: The designation of Lime Park as a Conservation Area and/or UNESCO World Heritage Site would significantly enhance its tourism appeal. Visitors could explore the historic estate, learn about its technological innovations, and experience the unique character of the area. This would boost the local economy and create jobs.

 

By designating Lime Park as a Conservation Area, we can safeguard its unique character, promote sustainable development, and ensure that this valuable heritage asset remains a cherished part of our community.

We urge you to consider our petition and take the necessary steps to protect Lime Park and its surrounding environment.

Thank you for your time and attention to this important matter.

Yours faithfully,

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Contact Information]

[Signatures of Supporting Individuals and Organizations]

 

 

Our water is drawn fresh from the only working (fully functional) well in Herstmonceux village. We are planting and growing trees from acorns on site.

 

We hope that these guiding principles as to restorative rewilding, coupled with our technological exhibits might inspire generations of young scientists, and conservationists to think outside the box.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EXHIBITS   FRIENDS   HERITAGE   HOME   LIME PARK   OPEN DAYS   PARKING   TECHNOLOGY   UNESCO

 

Copyright © 2025 Lime Park Heritage Trust. A not for profit organisation with charitable objects.

 

 

 

 

 

CONSERVATION AREAS ARE DESIGNED TO ENHANCE AND PRESERVE SPECIAL HISTORIC, SCIENTIFIC AND ARCHITECTURAL INTEREST - WORLD HERITAGE SITE - HERSTMONCEUX MUSEUM