Gilgal Conservation Area Character Appraisal

1.1 Lower Mitton was originally a small settlement set in farmland. Much of the setting has been altered over the years and has several components, as follows:

1.2 The River Stour forms the boundary immediately to the south-east. The associated River corridor has much vegetation and some adjoining open space, which give this aspect of the setting a green feel and helps buffer it visually from industrial and business development further to the south-east.

1.3 To the south is the site of former industrial nineteenth century carpet factories which have been demolished, the land being redeveloped for housing and commercial uses.

1.4 Immediately to the east, at the junction of Worcester Road and Gilgal, a modern petrol station adjoins the boundary. This is a particularly incongruous feature and the subject of further comments elsewhere in this document (refer Neutral Areas).

1.5 To the north-west, west and south-west is residential development. Adjoining the northern part of the Area, older properties (Nos. 44-50, Gilgal), plots, a footpath, and a sandstone wall adjoining the canal, are harmonious and continuous with the Area. A number of properties in Severn Road, to the south-west; and No. 19, Mitton Gardens, are similarly harmonious.

 

Topography

2.1 The topography of the Area has influenced its character. Mitton was built around a small hillside that leads down to the River Stour, which in turn runs around its base. The two main streets, Mitton Street and Gilgal, were laid out in a continuous semi-circle around the hillside but running broadly diagonal to the contours and converging at the lowest point to join the crossing point of the river.

2.2 A network of steep pre-nineteenth century footpaths leads from an area to the west of Gilgal, down into the Area and particularly into Gilgal and the north-east end of Mitton Street. Although steep, these footpaths have “elbows” in places that follow the contours and historic plot boundaries and provide short breaks from the gradient.

2.3 The rooflines of properties in Mitton Street and Gilgal, particularly those of dwellings, are stepped with the gradient. Properties on the up-slope side of Mitton Street tend to have conspicuous brick or red sandstone revetments to their elevated front gardens; whilst those on the down-slope side have low walls visible from the street.

2.4 The main concentration of historic residential development along Mitton Street and the southern end of Gilgal is set back from the River Stour, which is likely to have been a precaution against flooding.

Historic Evolution

3.1 The Area encompasses the old settlement of Lower Mitton that predates the adjoining Georgian town of Stourport-on-Severn. Mitton was probably established in association with a historic crossing point of the River Stour, immediately to the east, on a route leading north-west from the city of Worcester. This crossing point is still in use today as the Town’s principal crossing point of the river.

3.2 The oldest surviving building in the Area (No. 41, Mitton Street) may date from the early seventeenth century, and remnants of old fabric (timber framing) survive in other buildings in the vicinity (for example No. 4, Mitton Street). A medieval or Saxon church is said to have existed on the site of the current churchyard immediately to the north of the Area. A map of 1802 indicates a distribution of buildings, streets, paths and plots, which survive in whole or part today, albeit with subsequent nineteenth century infilling. As such, it is possible the origins of the settlement and its street, and broader plot layout, are of considerable age.

Land Uses

4.1 The predominant land use is residential, which sits comfortably with its historic role as a small settlement.

4.2 A former public house, now Indian Restaurant (No. 18, Gilgal) is a period building, which provides a social and visual focal point at the junction of Gilgal, Mitton Street and the Worcester Road.

4.3 A former coal and coke yard in Gilgal, which survives and represents an important documentation of a specialised building type and historic use, though it is noted that this has seen some alteration in recent years.

4.4 Retail and office uses, which currently occupy nineteenth century factory buildings located at the corner of Mitton Street and Worcester Road. Although these uses are non-traditional, they are assisting in the worthwhile retention of important period buildings in the Area.

4.5 On the edge of the Area, at the junction of Gilgal and Worcester Road, is a petrol filling station, which detracts from the area.

Colours

5.1 The colours in the area stem from ground surfaces, building materials, and vegetation, as detailed below:

5.2 Non-traditional black tarmac has been used for the roads and footpaths, replacing older materials and diminishing the area’s character.

5.3 Buildings showcase a range of colours, from the classic black and white of timber framing and the red-orange bricks of the oldest structures to more recent colour-washed renders, which detract from the area's overall aesthetic.

5.4 The roofs are covered with grey slate and red-brown tiles.

5.5 Some walls are constructed from red sandstone, notably those that line the southern side of the canal towpath (Gilgal) and a few front garden walls and revetments along Mitton Street.

5.6 Woodwork, including window and door frames, may have originally been painted white but has since received various treatments and colours, many of which are incongruent with the character of the area and its buildings.

5.7 Natural hues in the area are provided by deciduous trees and shrubs, particularly along the sloping footpaths and in residential gardens. This greenery is prominently visible from higher vantage points within and around the area, serving as a pleasant backdrop to the buildings' colours.

5.8 A similar array of vegetation extends beyond the area, with seasonal changes that connect it to the surrounding environment. Despite the residential nature of the area, grass lawns are not commonly found. Roadside trees are not a typical feature of the area.

Climate

6.1 Climate exerts a number of influences in the Area.

6.2 There is little evidence to suggest that buildings are intentionally oriented towards sunlight; instead, they generally align with the back of the pavement. However, at the junction of Gilgal, Mitton Street, and Worcester Road, the road widens, creating a spacious and well-lit intersection where the largest homes are situated. These homes typically face the back of the pavement, except for No. 15 Gilgal, which faces south.

6.3 All buildings in the area feature sloping roofs rather than flat ones, a design choice aimed at facilitating rainwater drainage. Additionally, semicircular coping on free-standing walls helps mitigate frost damage. Some front doorways are adorned with pediments and simple pointed or flat canopies that not only add decorative appeal but also deflect rainwater.

6.4 The windows are adequately sized, reflecting the temperate climate, with traditional sash mechanisms that allow the lower panes to open upwards for ventilation.

6.5 While the risk of flooding from the River Stour is mostly mitigated by the natural rise of the land away from the river and the historic placement of buildings on these slopes, the lower areas around the central road junction remain susceptible to frequent and severe flooding.

Trees

7.1 Roadside trees are not a typical feature of the street frontages in this area. However, there is a notable presence of trees and shrubs in other locations, including:

• In domestic gardens along the footpaths west of Gilgal,
• In gardens to the east of Gilgal and around properties on Mitton Street and Stour Lane,
• Adjacent to the footpath between the northeastern side of Gilgal and the Canal, and
• Along the banks of the River Stour.

7.2 These trees, predominantly deciduous, have a changing visual impact throughout the seasons. They enhance the area’s visual depth by obscuring and revealing views at different times of the year and bring in natural, vibrant colour. This greenery also gives the impression that this part of town is less densely developed compared to other areas. Notably, none of these trees are currently protected by Tree Preservation Orders.

Historic Street Pattern and Movement

8.1 The primary historic roads in the area include Mitton Street, Gilgal, Worcester Road, Stour Lane, and Severn Road. These routes, established before 1800, remain in use today as the area's main vehicular corridors, although Stour Lane may have originally extended further to the bank of the River Stour.

8.2 Mitton Street and Gilgal are laid out in a semi-circular formation, with Worcester Road intersecting them roughly midway along the arc. Mitton Street likely dates back to before the 17th century, whereas the age of Gilgal is uncertain, possibly predating or postdating the late 18th-century canal that runs along its northern side.

8.3 Historical footpaths, still visible on an 1802 map, connect Gilgal and the eastern end of Mitton Street to an area now occupied by 20th-century residential developments, such as Mitton Close and Mitton Gardens, as well as the canal towpath.

8.4 The road layout has heavily influenced the area's development, with most buildings aligned linearly along Gilgal and Mitton Street. Some houses to the west of Gilgal are only accessible through a network of narrow footpaths, adding to the area's distinctiveness.

8.5 Vehicular traffic dominates movement in the area, particularly along Mitton Street, Gilgal, and Worcester Road. Mitton Street and Gilgal are one-way roads, directing traffic from north to south, which has increased traffic flow but has severely impacted the area's character. This high volume of traffic contributes to visual intrusion, noise, pollution, and safety concerns. There have been several vehicular accidents, damaging the historic brick wall at the corner of Mitton Street and Worcester Road, leading to a loss of original historic fabric.

8.6 At night, vehicular traffic continues to dominate, though with slightly reduced volume. Unfortunately, many traditional windows in nearby homes have been replaced, most likely due to residents seeking relief from traffic noise and dust.

8.7 Pedestrian activity along the roadside pavements is minimal, probably because the constant flow of traffic, particularly on the narrow lower end of Gilgal, makes the area feel unsafe for pedestrians. This, combined with the volume and speed of vehicles, creates an intimidating environment.

8.8 In contrast, the footpaths behind Gilgal, though infrequently used, offer a completely different experience, providing a "hidden world" that contributes to the area’s unique character.

Illumination and Night-time Appearance

9.1 The night-time character of the Area remains largely unchanged from the day, as few establishments remain open after dark.

9.2 Streetlights are mounted on unsympathetic concrete poles, evenly spaced along both sides of Gilgal and Mitton Street. They emit a uniform orange glow, which casts an even light at ground level but creates a somewhat surreal and unsympathetic atmosphere.

9.3 These streetlights softly illuminate the facades of buildings in the Area. However, a petrol station at the eastern edge of the Area, near the central junction, produces a harsh, wide glare of light that dramatically and detrimentally impacts the Area’s appearance and character.

9.4 The footpaths on the bank to the west of Gilgal are less well-lit. Here, lamps—again on unsympathetic concrete poles—are placed only at key points or corners, making the paths feel unwelcoming and potentially hazardous. Better lighting management could address this issue.

9.5 At night, Mitton Street and Gilgal are still dominated by heavy vehicular traffic. The significant traffic on these roads strengthens the case for improving lighting on the bankside footpaths, offering residents a safer alternative to walking along the roadside pavements.

Views Into the Area

10.1 The principal views into the Area are from the three major roads entering it, from a footbridge crossing the canal to its immediate north, and from footpaths to the west of Gilgal. From all but the Worcester Road approach, these views are obtained at levels near or at the top of the embankment.

10.2 Views into the Area when entering from Mitton Street and Gilgal, are channelled into short vistas by the curving nature of the highway, the linear pattern of adjoining development, and a substantial and important sandstone wall adjoining the north side of Gilgal. From the Worcester Road approach, Zains Restaurant (No. 18, Gilgal) stands ahead as a very prominent and important landmark and focal point at the foot of the embankment, with street vistas to the left and right. Upon crossing the bridge to the River Stour, the view to the left reveals a stretch of river embankment and flowing water, and an adjacent factory building of red brick. At this point, the view to the right reveals particularly large houses (Nos. 15, and 19 & 27, Gilgal) terminating the southern end of more humble development on either side of Gilgal. These features form part of the eastern boundary of the Area.

10.3 The footbridge over the canal provides a view of roofscapes to the south and south-west; and a seasonal opportunity to glimpse the fronts of the late nineteenth century houses to the east of Mitton Close. The footpaths to the west of Gilgal provide glimpses into and between the private domestic gardens to those properties in the vicinity.

10.4 The urban nature of the surroundings to the Area prevents inward views of the Conservation Area from distant vantage points. This is undoubtedly a visually introverted Area.

Views Out of the Area

10.5 Views out of the Area are generally confined due to the surrounding urban environment. From a few points along the network of rising footpaths, it is possible to take views outward over the roofs of buildings. Where these footpaths emerge from the Area looking west into Mitton Gardens, the views are of unsympathetic late twentieth century bungalows and flats. The view from the Worcester Road junction is dominated by an unsympathetic petrol filling station. On the northern side of the latter, however, is a range of older buildings that just catch the eye. The view along Mitton Street is completely harmonious, with the Church spire on the corner of Mitton Street and Vale Road being a visible landmark.

10.6 To the south of Mitton Street, between the junctions with Severn Road and Stour Lane, extends a large supermarket and extensive parking area. This area is visible from Severn Road, Mitton Street and Stour Lane, does not contribute positively to the character of the Conservation Area

10.7 Adjoining the northern part of Gilgal beyond the Area, older properties (Nos. 44-50, Gilgal), plots, a rear footpath, and a continuation of the sandstone wall adjoining the canal, are harmonious and continuous with the Area. A number of properties in Severn Road are similarly harmonious.

Views Within the Area

10.8 Within the Area, views are largely restricted to the short-distance along the major streets, the curving nature of Gilgal and Mitton Street coupled with the closeness of the associated development, confine views to one main visual corridor. At the centre, in relation to the Worcester Road junction, the vista opens out and larger buildings (Nos. 15, 18, 19 & 27, Gilgal) provide landmarks, focal points and terminating features. The petrol filling station at the central road junction features strongly and unsympathetically in these views, even though it is not within the Area. The narrow footpaths to the west of Gilgal, with their high sides of walls, fences and trees, and sharp changes in direction, create more confined vistas; but with occasional glimpses of adjoining buildings and the private world of domestic gardens. Period buildings within the Area, at the end of the view lines leading from these footpaths, are Nos. 13 & 14, Gilgal.

Pattern and Density of Building

11.1 The buildings mainly face directly onto roads or footpaths in a near linear pattern. The majority of buildings are set against the back of the pavement or immediately against the edge of the path, but a few have shallow front gardens which are never more than 3 metres in depth in Mitton Street, and less in Gilgal.

11.2 The density of buildings is quite high and they are generally arranged in short terraced groups, which portrays a close knit appearance. In Gilgal, a few larger dwellings wrap around smaller ones.

11.3 Many buildings appear to have been constructed with only small communal rear gardens or small communal yards, although there appears to have been some recent demarcation to create privacy. Generally, these garden plots or yards still survive.

 

Type of Buildings

12.1 The predominant type of building is the small, terraced dwelling, with a few larger dwellings (presumably built for once better-off residents) in the vicinity of the Worcester Road junction, where the vista widens out. Many dwellings have rear wings and outbuildings, including privies and washhouses.

12.2 No. 18, Gilgal, was the only public house in the Area, occupying a period building at the junction of Mitton Street, Gilgal and the Worcester Road. This has since been converted to an Indian Restaurant.

12.3 No. 3, Mitton Street (Currently flats) was originally a public house and retains an old former brew house with a louvered roof to the rear.

12.4 The group of small buildings and enclosed space between Nos. 18 & 19 Gilgal (west side) was originally a coal yard dating from the nineteenth century; the only known surviving example of its type in the District. There has been some loss of buildings on the entrance to the area but the overall form is still legible.

12.5 Nos. 28, 29, 30, & 31, Gilgal (west side) are former combined shops and houses dating from the early to mid. nineteenth century. These buildings originally had simple rectangular shop fronts (without wooden stall risers) in the front elevations that were removed during the late twentieth century in a visually detrimental refurbishment exclusively for residential use; hence the current rectangular ground floor window openings.

12.6 No. 8A Gilgal (north side) was originally a combined shop and dwelling dating from circa.1900 that had a substantial single-pane shop front in its front elevation removed around 1990 during a conversion to flats, to the detriment to its character and that of the vicinity.

12.7 No. 28, Gilgal, may have originally been constructed as a house but also had a shop in the building from the late nineteenth century until the late twentieth century, with a substantial period shop front. The latter was a bakery until the 1990’s.

12.8 No. 29, Mitton Street, was originally a house that was unsympathetically extended during the late twentieth century to be used as a food take away, which closed during the 1990’s.

12.9 No. 35 Mitton Street (south-east side) is a former shop dating from circa. 1900 and significantly, retains the only period shop front on the Area. This has seen some alteration but still retains its general form, contributing positively to the character of the Conservation Area.

12.10 A nineteenth century factory building, Anglo House, is located at the corner of Mitton Street and Worcester Road. This is now occupied by retail and office uses.

12.11 Mitton Street previously contained within it two areas which detracted from the character of the Conservation Area, these being the former builders yard and hire premises (Mitton Street, east side) and the former vacant builders yard (Mitton Street, north-west side). Happily, these have been developed sympathetically and now contain modern residential dwellings which cause no harm to the character of the Conservation Areas.

 

Style of Buildings

13.1 The predominant styles are Georgian and Victorian, reflected in the older terraced cottages and larger Georgian houses. In addition, mid. nineteenth century terraced cottages in the Area draw significantly on the Georgian influence.

13.2 Classical influences in Victorian industrial buildings, located at the junction of Worcester Road and Mitton Street.

13.3 Vernacular influences, in the seventeenth century square timber framing of No. 41, Mitton Street; which is the only such surviving building the Area.

13.5 Mid to late twentieth century council housing is evident in Nos. 11-15, Mitton Street; which are not harmonious with the Area.

 

Size of Buildings

14.1 Dwellings are predominantly of two storeys, with a small number in the vicinity of the Worcester Road junction having three storeys (plus cellars). The latter were presumably built for more affluent residents and take advantage of the wider vista to the fore.

14.2 Dwellings generally have narrow frontages, often being only one or two bays wide, with the front door opening directly into a front room. The larger dwellings in the vicinity of the Worcester Road junction are three bays wide.

14.3 The industrial buildings (Anglo Works) at the junction of Mitton Street and Worcester Road are of larger size and massing than the dwellings. The principle building on this site appears to have been extended at an early stage, using some of the architectural themes and details of the original.

Morphology of Buildings

15.1 The predominantly small, terraced dwellings can be described as being of two storeys, of domestic scale, height to eaves is less than the width of the street which helps give a perception of space between the facing buildings (except at the "pinch-point" at the foot of Gilgal).

15.2 Plots are of a regularly narrow width. The buildings are of similar heights along the street and their collective massing creates a degree of unity to the views.

15.3 They have been built to the pattern of the road layout, which has curves along much of its length, but they do not flow gently with that curvature. Instead, their frontages tend to be staggered, often quite erratically to conform to it.

15.4 (The above factors combine to make the buildings of the Area feel compatible and comfortable with the human scale).

15.5 Windows and doors are rectangular and because of the terracing there is an overall sense of rhythm to the wider street scene.

15.6 Building profiles can be seen due to frontage gaps and subtle changes in street massing and these reveal plan depths greater than the widths of the plots. Facades to double fronted buildings are symmetrical.

Materials and Construction

Roofs:

16.1 The roofs are pitched at around 40 degrees, with ridgelines running parallel to the street and unhipped gable ends. They are typically covered with small rectangular red-brown plain clay tiles or rectangular natural grey slate. However, some roofs have been re-covered in recent years with machine-made or modern interlocking concrete tiles, which has negatively impacted their character and that of the surrounding area.

16.2 Ridges feature semi-circular tile capping, typically without any additional decoration, and follow the roof's slope. Verges are set close to the gable wall and finished with a mortar fillet, lacking timber barge boards, overhangs, or fascias. Eaves are detailed with either brick dentiling or a continuous brick course that is arranged either squarely or diagonally to the wall.

16.3 The traditional flashing material is lead, stepped to align with the brickwork joints. Chimney stacks are typically made of brick, rectangular in shape, and proportionately tall. On smaller older houses, they are usually mounted on the ridge of side walls, while on larger older and late 19th-century houses, they are placed on or just below the ridge of side walls or internal bay walls. They generally lack decorative capping but most still have their chimney pots. Overall, these chimneys contribute to a robust and visually interesting roofscape.

16.4 No. 15, Gilgal, has a mansard roof but this is the only such example in the Area and not therefore generally characteristic.

 

Walls:

16.5 Buildings are primarily constructed with reddish-orange or reddish-brown bricks arranged in Flemish bond. Victorian cottages typically feature smoother, machine-made bricks compared to the rougher texture of older Georgian properties.

16.6 It is important to note that a Flemish bond appearance on the exterior of a modern cavity wall can be easily replicated using stretchers and half or third “snap” bricks, rather than using fully cross-jointed bricks arranged as headers.

16.7 Free-standing brick walls are traditionally capped with semi-circular blue coping bricks.

Windows and doors

17.1 The window and door openings are rectangular, emphasising a vertical design. Window openings feature either flat or cambered heads. Flat heads are adorned with decorative elements such as rusticated headers or rubbed gauged brick voussoirs. Cambered heads are constructed using single or double courses of bricks that match the wall's bricks.

17.2 At the Worcester Road junction, two of the larger houses include semi-circular windows facing the front of the attic or top floor (Nos. 18, 19, & 27, Gilgal), while one of these houses also boasts a Palladian window, highlighting its quality. Additionally, one of these dwellings features canted bay windows on the ground floor.

17.3 Smaller houses feature only one window per floor on the front elevation. Some mid-nineteenth century windows have decorative projecting stone lintels and brackets, painted white. Many windows also have stone sills. The traditional window design is the vertically sliding sash, divided by glazing bars. Dormers and rooflights are not traditional to the area.

17.4 All front doors are single and traditionally panelled, without any glass. Some doorways feature pointed or flat canopies, fanlights, or box lights, as well as decorative door cases. Larger properties typically have pedimented heads, while most smaller properties have a flat-headed canopy. Each door is accompanied by a stone step. Wood is the traditional material for door and window joinery, and it is usually painted rather than stained.

17.5 Terraces often include a shared tunnel passageway that extends from the front to the rear of the buildings.

 

Survival of Architectural Features

18.1 Gilgal has experienced a significant loss of original features. In recent years, its character and appearance have been notably diminished by inappropriate, though legally permissible, modifications. One of the most significant issues is the replacement of original timber windows with various styles and designs in uPVC, aluminium, and stained "stormproof" timber. Additionally, in several cases, the window openings themselves have been altered, which has further disrupted the visual and historical integrity of the area. The specific alterations are as follows:

• Replacement of traditional sash windows with ones of inappropriate design, style, and construction, using uPVC, aluminium, and timber.
• Alteration of window aperture shapes to fit replacement windows.
• Removal of old shop fronts (e.g., Nos. 8A and 28, 29, 30 & 31, Gilgal). Notably, No. 35 Mitton Street (south-east side) is a former shop from around 1900 and is the only surviving period shop front in the area, making it of significant interest.
• Replacement of traditional front doors with ones of inappropriate design and style in uPVC and timber.
• Use of modern timber stains on joinery.
• Unsympathetic roof coverings.
• Painting of brickwork.
• Application of render.
• Inappropriate pointing.
• Alterations to traditional brick or sandstone front walls and revetments (e.g., loss of sandstone revetment at Nos. 11-15, Mitton Street).
• Loss of outbuildings, including privies and wash houses.
• Cluttering effect of wall-mounted satellite antennas.

18.2 Most of the unsympathetic alterations mentioned above could be reversed. Restoration should be preferred over redevelopment, and every effort should be made to preserve the built fabric from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries in the area.

Landmarks, Focal Points and Special Features

 

Landmarks:

19.1 Landmarks are buildings, structures, or features that stand out due to their size, design, or location. Their prominence requires special attention in their treatment and the preservation of their surroundings.

19.2 The topography of the area and its surroundings means that few buildings serve as landmarks from distant viewpoints. However, certain buildings stand out from vantage points when entering or within the area, as follows: 

• Nos. 18 (Zain’s Restaurant), and 15, 19, & 27, Gilgal, are relatively large buildings located near the Worcester Road junction, marking the end of the rows of development in Gilgal. However, a pole sign on the forecourt of the adjacent petrol station disrupts the view and setting of these buildings.
• The former Anglo Works on Mitton Street is a landmark due to its size and prominent position.
• Nos. 39, 40, and 41 Mitton Street form a notable group of buildings situated on the outside of a bend in the road. No. 39, a large three-storey building, anchors one end of the group, while No. 41, a timber-framed cottage, stands out for its unique design and materials compared to surrounding buildings.
• The red sandstone wall on the northeast side of Gilgal is a significant roadside feature, enclosing the pavement and directing attention toward the northern entrance to Gilgal.

Focal Points:

19.3  Focal points are buildings, structures, or areas that stand out due to their position within sightlines or because they are central to well-frequented public spaces. Special attention is required in managing focal points and their view lines, as they are highly visible to the public.

19.4 The focal points within the area include:

• No. 18 (Zain’s Restaurant), Gilgal. This building is a prominent feature in the westward view along Worcester Road and is highly visible to numerous passing vehicles each day.
• Nos. 39, 40, and 41 Mitton Street are residential buildings that serve as focal points due to their location on the outer curve of a bend in the road.
• Nos. 13 and 14, Gilgal, are modest terraced houses that form the focal point when looking east from the end of a footpath connecting to the opposite side of Gilgal

 

 

Special Features

19.5 The area includes four Statutory Listed Entries (Listed Buildings) covering five distinct structures, along with around fifty additional buildings and structures of interest. Most of these date back to the late 18th and 19th centuries, with one dating from the 17th century.

19.6 Particularly special features include the following:

• Nos. 15, 18 (Zains Restaurant), 19, and 27 Gilgal, along with No. 41 Mitton Street, including their individual architectural features (Listed Buildings).
• The former Anglo Works and the wall extending north along Mitton Street.
• The red sandstone wall on the northeast side of Gilgal.
• Small outbuildings and original retaining walls in the rear courtyards of properties throughout the area.
• The former coke yard and buildings between Nos. 18 and 19 Gilgal.
• The period shopfront at No. 35 Mitton Street.
• No. 39 Mitton Street (a former public house) and its old brew house at the rear.
• The narrow and winding layout of Gilgal and Mitton Street.
• The footpath network to the west of Gilgal, serving as the only access to several dwellings.

Open Spaces

20.1 There are no public open spaces in this area, but several privately owned spaces are visible to the public due to the area's topography, including:

• Domestic gardens on the west side of Gilgal. At the lower level, these gardens appear to have been cut into the embankment during the original construction and are supported by brick retaining walls. These features add visual interest to the street scene, and their loss (through development) or alteration (by replacing the original walls) would significantly diminish the area's character. On the higher ground, larger gardens are laid out at natural ground level.
• The former coke yard between Nos. 18 and 19 Gilgal.
• The green corridor adjacent to the River Stour and the open channel, which remains unculverted.

Ground Surfaces

21.1 The predominant ground surface in the area is modern black tarmac, found on both the roadside pavements and the footpaths west of Gilgal. Historically, rectangular blue-black paving setts existed in Gilgal but were removed by the County Council in the 1990s.

21.2 Some properties feature garden paths, tunnel passageways to the rear, and yards that still retain old paving setts of interest.

21.3 A few buildings with shallow front gardens have vibrant flower beds that enhance the area's appearance.

Tranquil and Active Areas

22.1 The peaceful, secluded footpaths to the west of Gilgal, along with the adjacent private gardens, provide a stark contrast to the busy road frontages.

22.2 Mitton Street and Gilgal experience continuous vehicular traffic day and night, negatively impacting the character of the area and making it unwelcoming for pedestrians.

22.3 The footpaths along the embankment offer residents alternative pedestrian routes, allowing them to avoid Gilgal and Mitton Street. These paths provide a safer, quieter, and cleaner environment for residents as they move to and from their homes.

Noise

23.1 The predominant sound in the Area is the near-constant vehicular traffic. It’s likely that the widespread use of unsuitable window replacements has been, in part, a response to mitigate the unwelcome noise. While the Area serves as a vital traffic corridor, it is also the historic heart of the Town. Improved traffic management could significantly enhance the character of the Area and better honour its historical significance.

Smells

24.1 The dominant smells in the Area come from passing vehicles, primarily their exhaust fumes and heated engines. Occasionally, the petrol station at the Worcester Road junction (just outside the Area) releases the odour of fuel, which can be unpleasant for residents at the southern end of Gilgal.

Unsympathetic features

25.1 Unsympathetic features in the Area, are as follows:

• Vehicle traffic.
• Substituting original sash windows with designs that are unsuitable in terms of style and construction, using materials like uPVC, aluminium, and timber; replacing traditional front doors with inappropriate designs and styles in uPVC and timber; and employing modern timber stains.
• Modifying window opening shapes to fit replacement windows, along with inappropriate front extensions.
• Installation of wall-mounted satellite dishes.
• Demolition of older shop fronts (e.g., Nos. 8A and 28, 29, 30 & 31, Gilgal). Notably, No. 35 Mitton Street (on the southeast side) is a former shop from around 1900 and is the only remaining period shop front in the area, making it of considerable interest.
• Incompatible roofing materials.
• Painting or applying render to brickwork.
• Use of unsuitable pointing materials and techniques.
• Modifications to traditional brick or sandstone on front walls and revetments (e.g., the removal of sandstone revetment at Nos. 11-15, Mitton Street).
• Traffic direction signs at the Worcester Road intersection.
• Advertisement hoarding along the roadside between Nos. 32 and 34, Gilgal.
• Advertising boards and displays at the rental premises on Mitton Street.
• Overhead wires at the intersection of Mitton Street and Severn Road.
• Inappropriate lamppost designs and lighting colours.
• Yellow road markings.

25.2 Many of the incompatible features mentioned above could be restored, and the traffic issue could be improved. It is preferable to focus on restoration rather than redeveloping buildings and old walls. Overall, every effort should be made to preserve the built heritage in the area from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.

Areas that would benefit from Enhancement

26.1 The frontage of the bungalows at 11-15 Mitton Street would benefit from a deciduous hedge above the front revetment to obscure the incompatible bungalows. Additionally, reconstructing the revetment with red sandstone—originally used before it was replaced with bricks in the 1990s—would create harmony with the sandstone boundary walls found at the western end of Mitton Street.

26.2 Footpaths leading up the embankment west of Gilgal and adjacent to the roadsides would benefit from the installation of traditional paving materials, more harmoniously designed lamp posts compared to the current ones, and, for the footpaths, the restoration of traditional boundary walls and railings.

26.3 The frontages of the salvage yard and hire yard on the east side of Mitton Street would improve with the removal of signage, the swing barrier, and a more aesthetically pleasing paint job on the red and white striped pavement bollard.

26.4 Yard between Nos. 32 & 34, Gilgal. This would benefit from landscaping or sympathetic use.

26.5 Removal of render from façades in general and reinstatement of traditional-style windows. Replacing modern lampposts with more traditionally designed lampposts that align with the character of the area.

26.6 Although not located within the area, three adjacent sites warrant attention:

• The frontage of the petrol filling station at the Worcester Road junction would benefit from a wall that features an appropriate design and scale using traditional materials, along with landscaping.
• The steps leading up to the Mitton Chapel Bridge from Gilgal would benefit from vegetation management and repairs to the ground surface.
• Reinstatement of missing sandstone blocks at the northwest end of the sandstone wall that runs along the northern end of Gilgal.

Neutral Areas

27.1 A neutral area is a small section within a larger area that does not align with the character of its surroundings. To address these mismatched spaces, any plans for their further development should follow one of two approaches:

• Be limited to parts of the site that are not visible to the public; or
• Be designed to incorporate subtle and discreet elements that reflect the dominant features of the surrounding area.

27.2 Ideally, the best solution for neutral areas would be to remove the disruptive features entirely and replace them with structures that are appropriately scaled, designed, and in harmony with their surroundings.

27.3 Neutral areas within the Area are as follows:

• The single-story extensions at the front of Nos. 21 (formerly a take-away) and 29, Mitton Street.
• Nos. 11-15, Mitton Street, which would ideally benefit from redevelopment, potentially drawing inspiration from the design of the former buildings that once stood on the site.

27.4 Located at the edge of the area, the petrol station at the junction of Gilgal and Worcester Road would benefit from sensitive redevelopment that complements the larger buildings at the southern end of Gilgal.

Future Development/Opportunities

28.1 The Gilgal conservation area holds significant architectural interest, justifying its conservation status. While the area is generally well-maintained, there are opportunities for improvement and enhancement. Efforts should be made to reverse any unsympathetic changes that have occurred, where possible. There has been positive action since the most recent appraisal, with negative or neutral sites being developed with appropriate residential facilities. Whilst these do not contribute to the historic significance of the conservation area, they no longer cause harm.

28.2 One area which is still an issue is No. 33 Gilgal, which was previously an undeveloped salvage yard. Whilst there has been development since then, the existing structure and overall site is not in-keeping with the character of the conservation area.

28.3 The principal development focus for the future should be the retention of those decreasing historic elements within the area, and the removal of unsympathetic features such as modern uPVC windows. Applications which seek to replace these with more appropriate models will be looked upon favourably.

Concluding Statement

29.1 In some respects, it can be challenging to fully appreciate the historic and architectural significance of the Gilgal Conservation Area. This is not due to a lack of historic and/or architectural interest, but rather the impact of heavy vehicular traffic and the gradual loss of traditional architectural features. Notable issues include the widespread replacement of historic windows with modern uPVC double-glazing, the installation of new doors, the rendering or painting of walls, and unsympathetic front extensions.

29.2 However, there has been positive action in the period since the previous appraisal. Two sites listed as ‘negative’ have since been redeveloped for residential purposes, with the buildings being designed in a manner that is not entirely detrimental to the Gilgal local character. These previously listed neutral sites were:

• Salvage yard on the east side of Mitton Street, adjacent to the warehouse
• Former yard on the west side of Mitton Street (site of Nos. 30 & 31, Mitton Street)

29.3 Furthermore, away from the roads, the bankside to the west of Gilgal and its footpaths have retained their historic character. These footpaths wind through private gardens, which help to mitigate the noise and fumes from traffic. Other important aspects of the area, such as its scale, massing, original layout, historic fabric, rooflines, and its relationship to the nearby Georgian town and canal, offer valuable insights into the area's evolution. With thoughtful planning, commitment, and positive action, the area has the potential to meaningfully reflect its historical heritage.

Relevant Wyre Forest Local Plan Policies

Policy SP.21 - Historic Environment 

Development proposals should protect, conserve and enhance all heritage assets and their settings, including assets of potential archaeological interest, subject to the provisions of Policy DM.23 (Safeguarding the Historic Environment). Their contribution to the character of the landscape or townscape should be safeguarded and protected in order to sustain the historic quality, sense of place, environmental quality and economic vibrancy of Wyre Forest District. In particular this applies to: 

1.  Designated heritage assets; i.e. listed buildings, conservation areas, scheduled monuments, registered parks and gardens and registered battlefields; also non-designated heritage assets (including those identified on the District’s Local Heritage List or for which a Historic Environment Record exists), and their settings. 
2. The historic landscape, including locally distinctive settlement patterns, field systems, woodlands and commons and historic farmsteads, smallholdings and their settings. 
3. Designed landscapes, including parkland, gardens, cemeteries, churchyards, public parks, urban open spaces and industrial, military or institutional landscapes, and their settings. 
4. Archaeological remains of all periods. 
5. Historic transportation networks and infrastructure including roads and track-ways, canals, river navigations, railways and their associated industries, and their settings. 
6. The market town of Bewdley with its historic street and plot patterns, buildings and open spaces along with their settings and views of the town. 
7. The historic inland port of Stourport-on-Severn with its late-18th century street pattern and buildings along with their settings and views of the town. 
8. The industrial urban landscape of the historic market town of Kidderminster with its surviving heritage assets and their settings. 
9. The rural villages within the District, including their associated Conservation Areas and buildings, along with their settings and historic views to and from the surrounding countryside. 

 

Reasoned Justification

When considering development proposals Policy SP.21 should be read in conjunction with Policy DM.23 Safeguarding the Historic Environment.

The historic environment of Wyre Forest is a valuable, finite and irreplaceable resource, which is central to the character and identity of the area. It has a crucial role in supporting sustainable development through enhancing the quality of life of those currently living in and visiting the area and should do so for generations to come as well as delivering wider economic benefits through tourism and uplift in related development benefits.

Proposals for development should have regard to the locally distinctive character of Wyre Forest District and appropriate weight will be given to those characteristics identified when determining proposals.

Development proposals should protect, conserve and enhance the significance of heritage assets, and the valuable contribution they make to the quality, sense of place, environment, economy and vibrancy of the Wyre Forest District.

Heritage assets are a powerful reminder of the work and life of earlier generations. Opportunities will also be pursued to aid the promotion, understanding and appreciation of the historic environment as a means of maximising wider public benefits, and reinforcing a strong sense of place.

The benefits of conserving and enhancing heritage assets include:

1. Potential for sustainable development, reducing carbon emissions by re-using historic structures
2. Influencing the character of an area and giving it a sense of place
3. Providing opportunities to be the catalyst for regeneration within an area and inspiring new development and imaginative design

Historic Landscape Characterisation studies have been produced for Worcestershire County Council. These provide an evidence base that can be used to inform assessments of local distinctiveness and the heritage value of historic landscapes and their associated heritage assets. The contribution that historic farmsteads make to the landscape is recognised in the guidance produced as a result of the West Midlands Farmsteads and Landscapes Project.

Designed landscapes include historic parks at Upper Arley, Ribbesford and Wribbenhall as well as Brinton Park and Kidderminster cemetery. The Policies Map will specifically identify Conservation Areas, Registered Parks and Gardens and Scheduled Monuments. Others are identified in the local heritage lists available to view on the District Council’s website and Worcestershire County Council’s Historic Environment Records. As well as landscape interest, these heritage assets have significant architectural and archaeological interest and often contain other monuments and memorials.

Archaeological remains provide crucial links to the past and can provide useful information about local heritage. In addition to those Scheduled Monuments included on the National Heritage List for England the District has many undesignated sites with archaeological potential – these are often identified on the Worcestershire Historic Environment Record.

A green infrastructure-led approach to development could aid the conservation of historic environment features, for example by allowing archaeology to remain in situ or strategically placing green space to preserve the setting of designated heritage assets. Therefore this policy has close links with Policy SP.28 (Green Infrastructure).

Policy DM.23 - Safeguarding the Historic Environment 

1. Proposals likely to affect the significance of a heritage asset (including the contribution made by its setting or any important vistas or views) should be accompanied by a description of its significance in sufficient detail to allow the potential impacts to be adequately assessed by a qualified and/or experienced heritage professional. This will usually be in the form of a Heritage Statement. Where there is potential for heritage assets with archaeological interest to be affected, this description should be informed by available evidence, desk-based assessment and, where appropriate, field evaluation to establish the significance of known or potential heritage assets.
2. Any development proposal causing harm or loss of significance to a heritage asset will be resisted unless clear and convincing justification is provided, to permit assessment against the NPPF criteria, relevant legislation and published local and national guidance.
3. Development proposals should avoid harm to or loss of heritage assets wherever possible. The highest level of harm should require very robust justification, including the demonstrable consideration of alternatives. Substantial harm to a designated heritage asset should only be allowed in exceptional circumstances.
4. The sympathetic and creative reuse and adaptation of historic buildings will be encouraged. Such proposals that provide a sustainable future for heritage assets identified as at risk, will be considered in accordance with Policy DM.24.
5. Repairs, alterations, extensions and conversions of heritage assets must be sympathetically designed to respect the significance of the form, character and materials of the original heritage asset and its setting. Fixtures and fittings should be inconspicuously sited and proportioned and be designed sympathetically to reflect the significance of the asset
6. Where a material change to a heritage asset has been agreed, recording and interpretation should be undertaken to document and understand the asset’s archaeological, architectural, artistic or historic significance. The scope of the recording should be proportionate to the asset’s significance and the impact of the development on the asset. The information and understanding gained should be made publicly available, as a minimum through the relevant Historic Environment Record and where appropriate at the asset itself through on-site interpretation.

Reasoned Justification

The various elements of the historic environment contribute to making Wyre Forest District a desirable place to live, work and attract tourism and economic investment to the area. Conservation of heritage assets must reflect a sufficient understanding of their significance, including both their setting and their wider context in the landscape/townscape. It is recognised that many heritage assets, in particular archaeological remains, are currently  unidentified and thus their significance is unknown. Appropriate information, where necessary from a field evaluation of significance, is the key to well-informed decision-making.

The sympathetic reuse, repair and adaptation of existing buildings can act as a catalyst for economic regeneration, support tourism and encourage the sustainable use of resources. It is important that any climate change mitigation / adaptation measures do not cause harm to the significance of heritage assets. Where appropriate, when opportunities for creative, contemporary and innovative architectural design arise, they will be encouraged.

In having regard for the provisions of the NPPF, the total loss of any heritage asset either by demolition or development will be resisted unless all reasonable efforts have been made to sustain existing uses, find viable new uses for the asset, or otherwise preserve it in charitable or community ownership. When considering development proposals of substantial benefit to the community and warranting consideration of total loss of a heritage asset, the District Council will require clear evidence that the redevelopment will proceed.

The District Council will from time to time identify and designate Conservation Areas where it considers those Areas to have special character warranting protection under Policy DM.23. Alongside relevant policies and guidance regard should be had to the provisions of relevant legislation, including the Planning (Listed Building and Conservation Areas) Act 1990.

APPENDIX 1 

Listed Buildings in Gilgal Conservation Area

MITTON STREET (North side) No.41
listed 05/07/50
GV II 
House. Probably early C17. Timber-framed with plain tiled roof. Two-storeyed, framed in square panels, four high, twelve in length. Axial stack, with fragments of original diagonal brick flues, and doorway to left of it. Three small casement windows contained within the panels, two upper windows having traceried glazing. Queen post and strut roof construction visible in gable wall.

GILGAL (West side) No.18 The Steps House Public House (Formerly Listed as: GILGAL No.18 (Formerly the Red Lion Public House))
listed 28/02/75
GV II
Public house, originally dwelling. Late C18, re-fronted c1820. Painted brick with plain tiled roof. 2-storeyed, 4 bays with projecting pedimented central section of 2 bays. Doorway with pedimented case with fluted shafts to right of this central section. 16-pane sash and paired 12-pane sashes above, all with segmentally arched brick heads. Semi- circular window beneath pediment. Wide lower windows in outer bays - 20-pane sashes. Lower, later addition of one bay to south with single sash window. Two axial stacks. Included for group value.

GILGAL (West side) No.27 (Formerly Listed as: GILGAL Nos.19 & 27)
listed 05/07/50
GV II
House. c1800. Rendered over brick, plain tiled roof. 3-storeyed, 3 bays with central doorway with 6 panelled door in pedimented case with traceried fanlight. This is flanked by canted bay windows to ground floor and above it is a round arched window flanked by Palladian windows. Semi-circular windows to attic storey. All windows are sashes with small panes. Gable end stacks.

GILGAL (East side) No.15
listed 23/07/79
GV II
House. c1800. Brick with plain tiled gambrel roof. 2-storeyed, 3 bays raised on a projecting basement. Central 6-panelled door in case with console brackets to pedimented head. 12-pane sashes with stuccoed flat-arched heads. Moulded brick dentilled eaves cornice, gable end stacks.

Locations marked by blue dots on map 

APPENDIX 2 

Buildings and Structures on Local Heritage List in Gilgal Conservation Area

4 Gilgal – 
Polychrome property on Gilgal. First property on eastern side of road. Brick arches to windows on ground floor, and to original doorway (now bricked up). Stone cills to all windows on front elevation. Red plain clay tiles to gabled roof. Modern Upvc windows to front elevation. Door has been moved, and resultant work is of detriment to the appearance of the property.

6-8 Gilgal –
Early-mid C19th terraced properties. 7 & 8 built as a pair, whilst 6 built as an individual property. All of similar design and construction, with red brick , now painted, plain clay tiles to roof. Archway between 6 & 7 leading to rear of properties. All front elevations have been altered, with modern windows and doors. Included for Group value, and for historic interest.

Sandstone canal wall running from bridge on junction with Vale Road. Only southern most section is included in Conservation Area. 

Old Anglo Warehouse –
Red brick building to Worcester Road. Front elevation has been rebuilt in 1950s. Side elevations can be seen, with high arched steel windows. Corrugated asbestos roof. Included for historic interest.

Stourport carpet warehouse –
Red brick factory and offices (does not include north lights to north). Gabled elevation to road, with principle elevation to car park, at right angels to road. Rubbed brick and blue brick arches to windows, with Venetian-style detail to upper floor facing Mitton Street. Slate roof.

39 Mitton Street (Mitton House) – 
3-storey property, dating to mid C19th. Originally the Crown and Anchor public house. Windows have all been replaced with top-hung casements. Building has been painted blue. Gabled slate roof. Includes brew-house to rear (although probably In different ownership). Ground floor windows to front elevation have squared rendered lintels, first floor has stone voissoirs.

40 Mitton Street –
Included for group value, considering its neighbours. Simple red brick construction. Red plain clay tiles to roof. Brick arches over window at ground floor. Simple canopy over front door. Mid C19th in date. Timber side-hung casement windows, retaining replicated historic fenestration.

Locations marked by pink dots on map