Stourport Conservation Area No. 2 Appraisal and Management Recommendations

Appendices

Stourport Conservation Area Appraisal No.2 Consultation Draft

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Contact Information

Helen Ensor IHBC (Director) E: helen.ensor@insall-architects.co.uk

Robert Ayton IHBC MRTPI (Senior Historic Buildings Advisor) E: robert.ayton@insall-architects.co.uk

Oxford Office

www.insall-architects.co.uk

Image plates referenced in the text can be view by downloading the full character appraisal, images will be available on the page soon.

Appendix I: Gazetteer of Buildings in the Conservation Area

Note: The buildings discussed generally make a positive contribution to the character and appearance of the conservation area unless otherwise stated.

High Street – North End

Nos. 1 to 2a. These lie on the north side of the north end of High Street which at this point runs east-west.

A three storey, two bay 19th century building facing on to High Street with a single bay return on Lombard Street. The facade is rendered. The recessed windows are single pane sashes. There is a good 19th century shopfront with heavy cornice, which returns on Lombard Street. At the east end is a four panelled entrance door, which is separate from the shopfront.

2 and 2a (Grade II)

A three storey, three bay early 19th century building with symmetrical brick facade in Flemish bond. The window openings have gauged brick arches over. There are original 6 pane sashes (without horns) at first floor and 3 pane at second floor level. They are all recessed. There are a pair of identical modern but traditional shopfronts, with bow windows and part glazed doors. The east facade faces the canal, and is in brick with windows as on the front facade (although these are modern replacements). There is a render cornice at roof level. There is a parapet on the front facade but the eastern part of the hipped roof has an eaves. The roof is pantiled.

3, 3a and 4

A three storey, three bay late 18th century building on the south side of the street. It has a painted Flemish bond brick facade, with three window openings per floor. The window openings have gauged brick arches. The windows are recessed and are all modern. There is a fourth, blind opening at first floor level. There are three shopfronts. The small, simple, but attractive, shopfront at the east end is 19th century. The other two appear to be modern. There is brick dentil course at eaves level. The roof is shallow pitched and hipped.

High Street – East Side (North to South)

A three storey, three bay early 19th century Georgian building with a curved façade. The Flemish bond brick facade is painted. The first floor window openings have rendered voussoirs arches, with decorated keystones. The shopfront windows have lintels over. The first floor windows are replacement 2 pane sashes; the second floor windows are original 4 pane sashes. The windows are flush with the facade. There is a modillion cornice at eaves level. The shallow pitched roof has a gable at its south end. The shopfront is modern.

A three storey one bay early 19th century Georgian building, with painted Flemish bond brick facade. The first floor windows are modern, with a segmental brick arch over. The second floor windows are also modern, with a lintel over. There is a modillion cornice at eaves level. The shopfront is modern but there are remnants of a 19th century (?) fascia. There is a large sign at first floor level.

7 and 8

A three storey, two bay 20th century building with painted brick facade. This is probably a post-war rebuild. The windows openings have soldier courses over. The windows and shopfront are modern. The building is not of interest.

A tall three storey, three bay 19th century building with an unpainted Flemish bond brick facade, with decorative brick stringcourse at second floor level. The first floor window openings have segmental brick arches with keystones and imposts. The shopfront openings have lintels over. The recessed sash windows are all two pane, (except the lower sashes at first floor level which are single pane) with horns. There is a modillion cornice at eaves level. There are gables at the north and south ends. The shopfront is modern.

10 (Grade II)

A two storey, four bay Georgian building (altered), with painted rendered facades. The windows at first floor level are flush with the facade and comprise 6 pane sashes with horns. There are no projecting cills. There is a long, modern, shopfront with small pane windows, which extends into no. 11. Brick dentil course at eaves level. Gable at north end.

11 (Grade II)

A three storey, two bay Georgian building with rendered asymmetrical facade. The windows are flush with the facade. At first floor the north window has 8 pane sashes; the south has six pane sashes. The modern shopfront continues from no.10.

12 (Grade II)

A three storey one bay Georgian building with unpainted Flemish bond brick facade. The window at first floor level has a voussoir arch with decorated keystone over. The sashes are 6 pane, without horns and are probably original. The second floor window has three pane sashes which are also probably original. The windows are flush with the facade. There is a good late 19th century shopfront. with carved heads as console brackets to the fascia and carved spandrels in the angles of the large window panes. The facade is capped with a brick modillion cornice at eaves level.

13 and 14 (Grade II)

A three storey, two bay Georgian building with details similar to no.12. The sashes are later replacements as they have horns but they match the original pattern. The symmetrical shopfront is modern. The southern end of the facade is toothed, because this is at the ned of an unfinished terrace. South of the building is a passageway leading to the Wesley Methodist Chapel

15, 16 and 17 (Grade II)

A three storey six bay Georgian building. The facade is in Flemish bond brickwork. The bays are wider at the north end than the south. The first floor windows have rendered voussoirs arches, with decorated keystones. The second floor windows have lintels brick over. There is brick modillion cornice at eaves level. The first floor windows are 8 pane sashes; the shopfront are four pane sashes; all without horns, so probably original. The shopfront at 15/16 is modern. The shopfront at 17 is early 20th century with moulded wood pilasters supporting fascia and forming architrave of central doorway. There is an opening to a passageway between the shopfronts with a semi-circular arch over. There is a shallow pitched slate roof.

18 (Grade II)

A three storey, two bay Georgian building with unpainted Flemish bond brick facade. The first floor openings have rendered voussoirs arches, with keystones. The windows are flush with the façade. There are 8 pane sashes at first floor and four pane sashes at second floor. These do not have horns and could be original. The shopfront is early 20th century. There is a brick modillion cornice at eaves level.

19 and 19A (Grade II)

A pair of Georgian buildings, with details similar to no.18. The sash windows appear to be original, except for second floor level in 19. At ground floor there are two original pedimented entrances and two small (24) pane shopfront windows. There are two projecting hanging sign boards.

20 (Grade II)

A three storey, three bay Georgian building slightly taller than 19-19A but of similar design. Most of the sash windows appear to be original. The facade is symmetrical. At ground floor are a pair of impressive Classical (Doric) shopfronts, with the original entrance framed in the centre but now used as a shop window. The shopfront windows (early 20th century?) are later than the Classical framework (which could be early 19th century).

21 (Grade II)

A three storey, three bay Georgian building. The facade is in Flemish bond brickwork using dark headers. This is unusual in the High Street. The facade details are similar to no.20, but there is a brick dentil course rather than a brick modillion cornice. The two northern windows at first floor level have been replaced with single pane sashes. The rest are original 8 pane and 4 pane sashes. The recessed shopfront is modern. There is a passageway entrance at the northern end.

22 (Grade II)

A two storey, two bay Georgian building with channelled render facade. There are quoins at the north end. The windows are flush with the facade. There are single pane sashes at first floor level and original 3 pane sashes at shopfront. There is a brick dentil course at eaves level. The shopfront is 19th century shopfront, with paired console brackets, although the large window is modern.

23 (Grade II)

A three storey, two bay Georgian building with channelled render facades. It appears to have original sash windows. These are 6 pane at first floor level and 3 and 6 pane at second floor. The shopfront is probably early 20th century. The fascia with its paired brackets matches that at 22. There are quoins at the south end of the four centred arch. There is a passageway entrance at the north end. The facade is capped with a brick dentil course at eaves level, slightly lower than that at 22.

Nos. 24-25 (Grade II)

A three storey, two bay Georgian building with channelled render facades. It is similar to 23 except there are two 19th century canted bays at first floor. The shopfront sash windows are later replacements but in the Georgian pattern. The shopfront matches that at 23. At the south end is a pedimented entrance with a 19th century four panelled (flush panelled) door. (The Historic England list description refers to this building as 23A).

26 and 27

A modern three storey, five bay building in a Georgian style. The facade is unpainted stretcher bond brickwork. The windows are single pane sashes. The first floor openings have voussoir arches. There is brick dentil course at eaves level. The two shopfronts are modern, and there is a recessed entrance at the south end. (Although not of architectural distinction the buildings have a good architectural relationship with their listed neighbours and sit comfortably in the terrace).

28 (Grade II)

A three storey, three bay Georgian building with Flemish bond brick facade. The first floor window openings are unusually tall, with 9 pane and 6 pane sashes. The cill is likely to have been lowered. There are rendered voussoirs arches, with keystones. The second floor windows comprise three pane and six pane sashes. The symmetrical shopfront comprises two large bays with heavily moulded, rendered, segmental arches, and a narrower entrance bay with segmental arch. There is a brick dentil course at eaves level.

29 (Grade II)

A three storey, three bay Georgian building. with Flemish bond brick facade. The first floor windows are unusual four pane sashes, which are probably not Georgian. The second floor windows are also not original 3 pane sashes. The central window openings are blind. There is a god 19th century shopfront. At the south end is 19th century four panelled door. There is brick modillion cornice at eaves level.

30 (Grade II)

A three storey single bay Georgian building with Flemish bond brickwork facade. The facade is asymmetrical; the windows are off centre. The windows appear to be original; 6 pane sashes at first floor and a 3 pane sash and a 6 pane sash at second floor. The first floor openings have rendered voussoirs arches, with keystones. The shopfront is modern. The roof is of medium pitch.

31 (Grade II)

A three storey three bay Georgian building with Flemish bond brickwork facade. The first floor openings have rendered voussoirs arches, with decorated keystones. The windows appear to be Georgian; 6 pane sashes at first floor and 3 pane at second floor. There is a brick modillion cornice at eaves level. The roof is shallow pitched. The shopfront is modern.

32 (Grade II)

A three storey single bay Georgian building with Flemish bond brickwork façade, similar to 31. However the central windows are blind. The shopfront is modern.

33 (Grade II)

A three storey single bay Georgian building with Flemish bond brickwork façade, similar to 31 but of smaller scale. The central windows are blind. The shopfront is modern but traditional design.

High Street – West Side (South to North)

A three storey building on the corner of High Street and New Street, designed in a neo-Georgian style. It has 6 pane sashes at first floor level and 3 pane sashes at second floor level. It has four bays on High Street and four on New Street, with a single bay splayed corner. The facade is in Flemish bond brickwork, with a projecting string course at second floor and brick cornice at eaves level. At first floor level are flat gauged red brick arches. The shopfront is modern but there is an original cornice above. At the north end is a passageway entrance, with a semi-circular brick arch over. On the splayed corner is a street light and a CCTV camera. The roof is shallow pitched.

35 (Listed Grade II)

A three storey, two bay Georgian building with brick facade in Flemish bond, recently repointed. There are 8 pane sashes at first floor level and 4 pane sashes at second floor level. These sashes do not have horns and could be Georgian. The first floor windows have rendered voussoirs arches, with keystones. There is a brick modillion cornice at eaves level. The shopfront is an attractive and is 19th century in style. The slate roof is shallow pitched.

36 (Listed Grade II)

Similar to no.35. The windows are modern replacements, but similar to no. 35 except they feature horns. The shopfront is similar to no.35. At the south end of the facade is a four panelled door, with semi-circular arch over.

A post war post office, two storeys high, set back from the historic building line. Designed in a modernist style. The facade is brickwork, with windows in the central section at ground floor level, with flanking dark brick panels, with high level horizontal windows. At first floor there are high level windows the full length of the facade, and larger windows at each end, above the brick panels at ground floor level. It has a flat roof. There is a modern access ramp and steps up to the entrance. At the north end of the frontage is a modern shelter for pedestrians, in a 19th century style.

This is a neo-Georgian bank (HSBC (formerly Midland) Bank), designed in 1937 by Whinney and Austen Hall. The entrance is within a single storey, stone faced wing on the south side. The main building is in Flemish bond brickwork, with stone quoins on the corners. The High Street facade features a large Venetian/Palladian window. The north and south facades have timber sash windows under gauged brick arches with keystones. Above the windows is a band of plain brickwork. The facade is capped with a large projecting stone cornice. The steep hipped roof is tiled. On the north side is a single storey wing in brickwork with a stone framed window of 3 bays. This has a concave north return wall. At the north end of the facade are two ATMs. The north facade on Sion Gardens is two storeys and relatively plain, with rectangular openings with soldier course arches over at ground floor and first floor, with casement windows.

39 (Listed Grade II)

A Georgian public house, probably purpose-built. [English Heritage, Stourport-on-Severn: Pioneer Town of the Canal Age (Swindon, 2007)] It is three storeys high, two bays wide, with a Flemish bond brick facade. The first floor openings have segmental brick arches. The sash windows are 8 pane at first floor level and 4 pane at second floor level. The sash boxes are exposed. The sashes have horns and so are later replacements. There is a brick modillion cornice at eaves level. The roof is relatively steep, with gable ends north and south. The ground floor features a Georgian shopfront with two shallow curved bay windows. The door is four panelled with a semi-circular fanlight over. There is a window opening at the north end, with 8 pane sashes. There is a projecting hanging sign board at first floor level and a light at ground floor level. .

At the south end is a later (20th century?) single storey wing in painted stretcher bond brickwork, with brick dentil course at eaves level and a steep tile roof, with gable end at the south. There are two window openings on the facade, with 4 and 8 pane sashes. The south facade has two similar windows and the gable end is boarded, horizontally. At the rear of this wing is a two storey extension with a single picture rail, also in stretcher bond

A two storey, four bay 19th century building with a painted Flemish bond facade, with a brick dentil course at eaves level. The three openings at first floor level have lintels over and the windows are modern casements. The shopfront is also modern. At the south end is an opening to the passageway, with a semi-circular arch over. There is a projecting hanging sign board at first floor level.

A two storey, two bay 19th century building with asymmetric brick facade. The two window openings have gauged brick arches over. The windows are modern casements. The shopfront and entrance door at the south end are modern.

Former Barclays bank, was built in 1939, designed by E.C. Aldridge. A symmetrical painted render neo-Georgian facade with three windows at first floor level. The windows are 6 pane sashes. There is a very good neo-Georgian shopfront with shallow curved bay window. At the north end is an alleyway with an ugly metal gate.

A five bay two storey post-war building with brick and render facade. It has a flat roof and modern shopfront. It makes a neutral contribution to the conservation area at best.

43a and 44

A two storey, four bay building which is a modern rebuilding in a Georgian style. The Flemish bond brick facade is unpainted. The window openings have render voussoirs arches. The sash windows are 8 pane at first floor level and 4 pane at second floor level. They are flush with the facade. There is a modillion cornice at eaves level. The roof is shallow pitched. The shopfronts are modern. There is no shopfront fascia panel.

45, 46 and 47

A three storey, four bay Georgian (?) building with brick facade, painted at the south and north ends only. The window openings at first floor level have rendered arches with keystones. The sashes are 8 pane at first floor and 4 pane at second floor level. There is a brick modillion cornice at eaves level. The roof is tiled and medium pitched, with gabled ends,. The ground floor appears to have benefit rebuilt as part of no. 43 and 44. The shopfronts are modern.

48 and 49

A 20th century building with Flemish bond brick facade. The three horizontal windows at first floor level are modern casements. The shopfront is modern. The roof is concealed behind a parapet.

50 and 51

A three storey, two bay 19th century building with Flemish bond brick facade. There are gauged brick arches at first floor and second floor level. The windows are 8 pane sliding sashes at first floor and modern 8 pane casements at second floor level. The shopfront is modern. There is a projecting hanging sign board at first floor. The roof is concealed behind a parapet.

52 and 53

A three storey, three bay building, contemporary with nos. 50-51. The detailing of the symmetrical facade is the same, except there are 4 pane sash windows at second floor level, and the central windows are narrower – 6 pane sashes at first floor and 3 pane at second floor level. The shopfronts are modern, with a blind brick panel between them. The roof is concealed behind a parapet.

54 and 55

A three storey, eight bay building from the 19th century. The facade is in Flemish bond brickwork. The openings have segmental brick arches. There are bands of decorative brickwork at first floor and second floor levels. The two bays at the north and south ends are narrower than the middle four bays. The sash windows are single pane in the outer bays and 2 panes in the middle bays. At the north end is a modern shopfront. At the south is an original entrance door, with a modern window at the south end, and original opening on the north side, with modern window inserted. The building has a single bay north facade, with detailing to match the main facade. The roof is concealed behind a parapet. There is an alleyway (Swan Passage) on the west side, running behind the building.

56 – The Swan Inn public house

The Swan is a late 18th century building. The front facade is in painted Flemish bond brickwork and features two, two storey canted bays and a central Doric entrance porch in the centre. The ground floor windows are single pane sashes. At first floor level the larger windows in the bays are two pane sashes, the smaller windows are single pane. Above the porch is a modern fully glazed door leading to a small balcony with a modern metal balustrade. At shopfront there are modern casement windows; two in each of the three openings. There is a brick dentil course at eaves level. The roof is shallow pitched and hipped.

The south elevation faces onto a small forecourt, and has blind windows at its east end, at first floor and second floor. There are modern casement windows at ground floor level and to the west at first floor level.

On the south side of the Swan, set back, is a two storey wing with a rendered facade, with a canted shopfront on its south side, and a modern entrance north of this. The first floor windows have leaded lights.

The north facade, on Lickhill Road, also features original blind window openings, at all floor levels, although those to the west have been altered with the addition of modern casements. There is a large obtrusive sign advertising a car park at the rear. At the rear of the building is a two storey wing, part built in English bond brickwork, with modern windows under rendered lintels at ground floor and a single window at first floor, under a brick faced lintel. There is a brick dentil course at eaves level.

Lombard Street - West side (South to North)

A post war retail building; 2 storeys high. Brick facades. 8 bays on east side to Lombard Street. 7 bays on south side to Lickhill Road. Fully glazed shopfront at ground floor level on both frontages. Splayed corner to High Street with entrance at ground floor and large window opening at first floor. Projecting canopy at first floor level on both frontages.

Nos. 5 to 23 form a continuous terrace of Georgian houses.

5 -7

These are three storey, three bay buildings, with unpainted Flemish bond brick facades. First floor windows have 8 pane sashes; 2nd floor have 4 pane sashes. Segmental brick arches over first floor windows. There is a brick string course at first floor arch level. The second floor windows have lintels over. There is a brick band at eaves level. The ground floor is rendered with traditional symmetrical shopfront with 12 pane shop windows and a semi glazed door. Entrance to a passageway with a semi-circular arch at north end. There are several satellite dishes on the facade.

9-11

Two three storey, one bay houses similar to 5-7 but the facades have been painted. There is no brick band at first floor. Modern shopfronts.

13 – 17

A group of three, three storey, one bay houses with painted brick facades. Segmental brick arches at first floor and lintels at second floor. Brick dentil course at eaves level. Modern windows and modern shopfronts at 13 and 15. No. 17 has a traditional timber (19th century?) shopfront. Access to passageway between nos.15 and 17. Satellite dishes at first floor.

21 and 23

A pair of three storey, two bay houses; much altered. No. 19 has an unpainted façade, modern windows and satellite dish. There is a passageway at the North end. Brick dentil course at eaves level. No. 21 is more altered with painted brick facade and the window openings have been enlarged. Modern windows, shopfronts and satellite dishes on both buildings. Access to passageway between the two shopfronts.

Lombard Street - East side (South to North)

1 High Street

The west return of 1 High Street, three storey three bay façade is on the east side of Lombard Street. Early 19th century. The northern two bays are lower than the southern bay. Rendered with single pane sash windows. 19th century shopfront, which continues on High Street facade.

Baldwin House (1 to 5)

4 and 5

Two 19th century three storey buildings with rendered facades. No.5 (south) is a three storey, one bay building with 2 pane sashes at first floor and 3 pane sashes at second floor. There is a brick dentil course at eaves level. Modern shopfront, with recessed entrance. No.4 is similar but slightly taller. Northern party wall with two gable ends and tall chimney stacks.

2 and 3

Single storey 19th century building with modern rendered facade and four brick lined arched openings to ground floor arcade, with modern railings. Modern shopfront set back. Central pediment/gable with projecting hanging sign board. Brick gable end on north side with central large, window opening and entrance to arcade.

Mitton Street - North Side (West to East)

Black Star public house

Single storey building on Mitton Street with rendered facade and steep roof with carved barge boards to gable end facing the street. Canted bay at ground floor level, with window to east with pitched roof over. Modern window at first floor level under segmental decorative brick arch. Large projecting hanging sign board on west side of window. West façade to canal with doors at south and north ends and a variety of modern windows. Tiled roof with projecting eaves. Two gabled dormers at North End.

The middle building has two tall storeys, with a rendered facade and a steep pitched roof with eaves, and gable ends north and south. Ground floor openings have modern casements under segmental brick arches. First floor has multi pane Georgian style windows under semicircular stone arches. The north door has projecting pitched roof over.

The northern range (dated 1884) is probably contemporary with the tall middle building and comprises single storey buildings with brick facades to canal, with semi-circular arched openings. The northern most building has a gable end on the west side. The other building is at right angles, with a gable at the north end.

War Memorial Garden

Open lawned area with war memorials in northwest corner. Trees screen the Black Star pub on the west side. Modern single storey building with double pitched roof on the north side – the ‘Old Library’.

The War Memorials (Grade II)

A First World War memorial, designed by The Bromsgrove Guild, erected in 1922; sundial added as Second World War memorial in 1954. First World War Memorial: Portland stone and red brick. Second World War Memorial: York stone.

Former Congregational Church

The Congregational Chapel, with attached school to the north, was built in 1869-70. It has brick facades in English bond, with dark brick bands. Gable end to South. The tower in southwest corner has a stone belfry and steeple. The south facade has central entrance with boarded doors under a two centred stone and brick arch, with quoins to jambs. Narrow windows either side, with stone arches and cills. There is a tall early medieval style traceried window at first floor level.

There is a low brick wall with painted stone coping on the south side, with decorative metal gates. Taller brick wall on Vale Road frontage. The north block (the former school building) is two storeys with three bay north facade, with modern windows under pointed double brick arches. The second floor openings have lintels.

On the east side of the church are historic brick and stone walls on north side of Mitton St, with a modern brick enclosure immediately behind these. There is a large lawn area to the east of church.

3 (Grade II)

A two storey, three bay Georgian house (early 19th century), with symmetrical Flemish bond brick façade to Mitton Street. Central entrance six panelled door, with pediment and traceried fan light over. There are casement windows with 9 panes, set flush with the facade. Hipped roof at west end; east end has gable. The west facade has a six panelled entrance door with timber pediment over. The windows under shallow segmental brick arches. The south window has 6 panes; north has 9. First floor window has 6 panes. There is a brick dentil course at eaves level. Single storey rear wing with casement sashes. Brick wall to rear garden with timber boarded door. Rough sandstone front garden wall.

A single storey building with steep roof, shop window and door. Blind window in east gable end. Single story shed at rear.

4 and 5 (Grade II)

Late 18th century or early 19th century remodelling of earlier timber-framed structure; altered in the 20th century.[https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1389574?section=official-list-entry] Two storeys and cellar. Painted brick facade on sandstone block foundations. Clay plain tile roof with gabled ends and corbelled brick eaves. Brick gable-ends. Three bay front range; the east bay is probably an addition when remodelled in brick in circa late 18th century or early 19th century; northwest wing at rear and northeast outbuilding at rear now incorporated into house.

Asymmetrical 3-window south front with modern windows in original large openings, ground floor with cambered arches, first floor with early C19 wrought-iron bowed balconies. Entrance door west of centre with panelled door, semi-circular fanlight with radiating glazing bars and early C19 wrought-iron porch with tent-shaped canopy. Modern doorway on east side.

Mitton Walk (Nos. 1 to 6)

A modern development of two storey houses with brick facades and shallow pitched roofs in a landscape setting. Modern brick wall on east side.

No.7

A two storey three bay 19th century house with a symmetrical rendered façade; much altered. Modern 8 pane casement windows. Gable ends to west and east. Central door with modern porch. The brick garden wall has a semi-circular brick coping.

Mitton Street – South side (West to East)

Villeneuve-le-Roi Garden on south side, opposite the War Memorial Garden.

Hereford and Worcester Army Cadet Force Buildings

Two modern single storey brick buildings, east of the junction with Lion Hill, with double pitched roofs, set back behind tarmacadam car park. Mature trees behind metal railings on Mitton Street and Lion Hill. .

Old Fire Station

A range of early 20th century (?) brick buildings with steep double pitched roofs with post war extensions on the east side. Tarmacadam car park on west side. Makes a neutral contribution to the conservation area.

A two storey L-shaped house (early 20th century?) with painted brick facades, steep double pitched tiled roofs, with gable end at north end facing Mitton Street, with one muti pane window at ground floor level. Large multi pane windows on the west side. East facade is largely blind. Concrete (?) block wall to Mitton Street.

55 and 56

Semi-detached 19th century two storey houses. No.55 is two bay and no.56 is one bay. Modern windows. The ground floor windows have gauged brick arches; first floor have lintels over. There is a brick dentil course at eaves level, and gable ends East and West. Wall to Mitton Street is stone, with brick repairs, with modern railings on top.

54 - Holly Bush public house

Two late Georgian buildings, altered. West side - Two storeys, two bays with rendered facade. The entrance has Gothic style frame. There are original three pane casement windows under segmental brick arches with hoods. Gable ends to east and west. Double pitched roof with modern tiles. Single storey wing on west side, with blind gable end to street. Modern window at first floor level in West gable.

The eastern building is two storey, two bay but is lower than the west building. It has a shallow canted bay at the east end on ground floor, with 8 pane sashes to west window. The central entrance has a loosely Classical framework. Flush door with three pane light above. 8 pane sashes at first floor level. The central opening is blind. Modern railings on low brick wall to street.

A modern house in traditional style. Two storeys, three bays with a central entrance porch with pitched roof over. Gable ends east and west. There is a brick garden wall with low modern railings on top.

Severn Road (West side)

28, 29 and 30 Severn Road

A short terrace of two storey, two bay terraced Georgian houses, much altered with rendered facades. Modern windows and porches. Gable ends and steep pitch roof. The terrace is well set back from the road with modern brick walls along the frontage.

Lion Hill - East side (North to South)

Villeneuve Mews (Nos. 1 to 9)

A three storey modern development with rendered gabled facades. There is a wide arch opening to interior of development. The south end is two storeys high, with gables and a central entrance.

1 and 2

A pair of two storey one bay Georgian houses; much altered. Rendered facades and modern windows. No.1 has been extended by 1 bay on the north side.

A two Storey, three bay 19th century house, with symmetrical façade and canted bays at ground floor level. Three windows at first floor level. All windows and doors are modern. Flemish bond brick facade. Brick dental course at eaves level, Gable ends, North and South.

5 and 6

A pair of semi-detached 19th century houses. Two storeys, two bays, with canted bays at ground floor level. The doors have semi-circular decorative arches above. No.5 has three and two pane sash windows. No.6 has modern windows and doors. Brick dental course at eaves level.

6A and 6B

Similar to nos. 5 and 6, No. 6A has modern windows and doors. No. 6B has six panel door and single pane sashes.

A two storey, three bay house, with Flemish bond brick façade. Lintels over window openings, 2 pane sashes, and 8 panelled door with semicircular fan light. Wider tripartite windows at South end at ground floor level.

White Lion Court

A former pub divided into flats. A three storey, three bay building with rendered facade. The ground floor has canted bays with three pane sash windows, with marginal glazing bars. Voussoir arches at first floor level. Lintels at second floor. The first floor middle bay has doors and balcony with Regency metalwork. The North End gable wall has blind openings. There is a three storey rear, East, wing, with windows of various sizes. There are 3 pane, 6 pane and eight pane sashes, under segmental brick arches.

The area in front of the building is a low concrete plinth. On the pavement is a modern, unsightly railing.

10 to 14

A terrace of three storey one bay Georgian houses. Flemish bond brick facades with segmental arches with keystones. Some original 6 pane sashes at ground and first floor; 3 pane sashes at second floor. Pedimented doors; a 6 panel door at no.10. Projecting eaves. The front gardens have low modern brick walls. There are three steps up from pavement level.

1 to 4 Bell Row

A terrace of three storey two bay modern houses, in a Georgian style, with stretcher bond facades and brick dental course, at eaves level. Brick arched window openings with two rows of headers. The front are Isabelle Adamthwaite enclosed by modern brick walls with railings on top.

5 to 7 Bell Row

Similar to Nos. 1 to 4. At the rear of the former Bell public house .

The Bell public house.

A three storey, three bay Georgian building. Painted facade with voussoir arches at ground and first floor level. Ground floor windows have 8 pane sashes; first floor has 6 pane sashes; second floor has 3 pane sashes. There is a pedimented entrance with a six panel door and semicircular fan light. At first floor level there are central double doors with modern metal balcony. South façade is similar to the front façade; three storeys three bays, but without entrance door. The front area has a low modern brick wall.

18 - 19

A two storey, three bay 20th century (?) building in Georgian style. The facade is in stretcher bond brickwork. The windows are multi-pane casements. The openings have rendered lintels at ground floor, brick lintels at second floor, and brick cills. There is a central entrance on the Lion Hill facade and one on the north facade. The double pitched roof is slated. There is a low modern brick wall around the front area.

21 and 22

Two post war three storey houses, with modern alterations to facade. The facade is rendered but framed with brickwork. brick border. They are set well back from the street, behind a 19th century (?0 brick wall on the north side and a modern concrete block wall to the south. The roof is not visible, assumed flat, behind a parapet. They make a neutral contribution to the conservation area.

York Street – North side (West to East)

All buildings are unlisted except for 14 to 18.

This building is on the corner with High Street. A three storey building with Flemish bond brick facade, with painted lintels at first floor and a painted brick dentil course at eaves level. It has four bays on York Street and one bay on High Street. The latter facade is all painted. The windows are two pane sashes which are a later alteration. The ground floor is much altered with modern two shopfronts of no interest and a modern six panelled door at the east end. The first floor openings have flat gauged brick arches except for the second from the east which, oddly, is a segmental brick arch.

A three storey, two bay building which has been radically altered, with wide window openings at first floor and second floor. The Flemish bond brickwork is probably 19th century. The windows and shopfronts are all modern and not of interest. There is a string course at second floor. The roof is shallow pitched with modern tiles.

A three storey one bay building which is a post war rebuilding, in a loosely Georgian style, although the detailing is poor. The shopfront is modern and not of interest.

A three storey one bay Georgian building. The facade is in Flemish bond. There is a rendered voussoir arch at first floor level. The windows are modern and detract from the facade. The small shopfront is 19th century in style. The shallow pitched roof has a brick dentil course at eaves level. There is a satellite dish at first floor level. To the east is a passageway.

A three storey one bay Georgian building. The facade is in Flemish bond. There are rendered voussoir arches at first and second floor level. The windows are modern and detract from the facade. The shopfront is modern and not of interest. There is a steeply pitched M shaped roof, hidden behind a brick parapet. There are two satellite dishes at first floor at the east end, and a projecting box sign at the west end.

A three storey one bay Georgian building. The facade is in Flemish bond. There is rendered voussoir arches at first floor level. The shopfront opening has a lintel over. The 6 pane sash windows are later replacements. The shallow pitched roof has a fascia board at eaves level (no brick dentil course). The shopfront is traditional and could include remnants of a 19th century shopfront, such as the fascia.

A three storey, two bay Georgian building with Flemish bond brick facade. The windows are replacements but in a Georgian style; six pane sashes at first floor and one six pane and one three pane sash per opening at second floor. Red gauged brick arches at both floor levels. The shopfront is 20th century but of traditional design.

8 and 9

A three storey, three bay Georgian building with Flemish bond brickwork facade. The window openings have segmental brick arches at first floor and lintels at second floor. The windows ate six pane sashes, which are later replacements. The shallow pitched roof has a brick dentil course at eaves level. The shopfront is modern and not of interest. There is a satellite dish at first floor level.

A three storey, three bay Georgian building with rendered facade. It has been much altered at first floor level with pairs of sash windows. all sashes have 6 panes. There is a 20th century traditional shopfront. At eaves level is an unpainted brick dentil course. There is a projecting hanging sign board at first floor level. On the east side is a modern single storey brick extension, with a shopfront window. This has a return to the passageway which leads to a private car park at the rear.

A three storey one bay Georgian building, which was probably built with nos. 12 and 13. It has a Flemish bond brick facade with segmental brick arch at first floor and lintel at second floor. The first floor windows are two pane sashes. The shopfront window comprises a three pane sash and a six pane sash. There is a painted brick modillion cornice at eaves level. The shopfront is modern and not of interest. On the west side is a small extension at ground floor with a shallow pitched roof. There are alarm boxes and a projecting box sign at first floor level.

A three storey, one bay Georgian building, much altered. The windows openings are horizontally proportioned, under lintels, with modern casements. There is a painted brick modillion cornice at eaves level. The shopfront is modern but in a traditional style.

Similar to 12. A three storey, one bay Georgian building, much altered. The windows openings are horizontally proportioned, under lintels, with modern casements. There is a painted brick modillion cornice at eaves level. The shopfront is modern but in a traditional style.

14 (Grade II)

A three storey, one bay Georgian building, Flemish bond brickwork facade with rendered voussoirs arch, with keystone at first floor; lintel at second floor. Original six pane sashes at first floor and 3 and 6 pane sashes at second floor. Shopfront is an attractive traditional design, with projecting square bay, possibly 19th century (or reproduction). There is a brick modillion cornice at eaves level.

15 (Grade II)

A three storey, two bay Georgian building, built with 14 and with similar details. The windows are modern replacements at second floor. There is a large projecting hanging sign board at first floor level. The shopfront is modern but in a loosely traditional style.

16 (Grade II)

A three storey, three bay Georgian house. Flemish bond brick facade with gauged brick arches over the ground floor and first floor windows. There are quoins at each end of the facade and a heavy rendered parapet hides the roof. There are six pane sashes at ground floor and first floor and three pane/six pane sashes at second floor. It has an early 19th century porch with Doric columns and entablature. The fanlight is a three centred arch. The front door is partially glazed. There are fascia signs and a projecting hanging sign board at first floor level. East of the building is a passageway to the rear.

The Old Inspector’s House

A two storey, three bay building in a neo-Georgian style. The facade is in Flemish bond brickwork There are three windows at first floor under soldier course arches. The windows are modern. The entrance door at the west end has a segmental brick arch over. East of this is a projecting curved shopfront. The hipped roof has white painted projecting eaves with modillion brackets. There is a large, wide dormer with four windows in the front roof slope.

17 (Oakleigh House) (Grade II)

A large, detached house with attached garden boundary wall. The list description states that the original building is late C18; extended circa 1840s. The 18th century wing is in red brick, the front building is stuccoed and circa 1840s. The slate roofs have gabled ends. The front range has deep eaves and bracketed verges. The C18 garden boundary wall extends to the rear.

The front facade comprises two storeys and is three bays wide; a symmetrical composition. The first floor windows have moulded eared architraves with key blocks; the windows are modern .At ground floor level are two large, canted bay windows with cornices and single pane sashes (without glazing bars). The central doorway has a Tuscan portico and 6-panel door with overlight.

To the west is a two storey service wing with a 20th century conservatory on front. At rear the parallel brick range is the C18 house. At the centre is a tall stair window with intricate pattern of glazing bars and canted bay window on left of ground floor complete with sash windows with glazing bars. The garden at the rear has a tall red brick garden boundary wall with coping bricks; the garden has been divided into two and is now in two ownerships.

18 (Grade II)

The former canal Lock keepers cottage, now a shop, dated 1854. The facades are painted render. It is a single-storey three bay building with central slightly projecting gable with plaque over inscribed SWCC. There are shopfront windows and doors each side of the gable, which has a central casement window. The composition is slightly asymmetrical, with the gable off centre. At the east end is a 20th century bow window with plaque over inscribed AD 1854. Extension to rear. The roof is Welsh slate with a central ridge stack. The apexes of the gables have turned and pointed wooden finials. Forms a group with Toll Office adjacent to York Street Lock at the head of the canal basin.

Parkes Passage - West side (South to North)

At southern end 19th century brick boundary wall and the east gable end of 17 York Street. The wall continues north of no.17. There are two large mature trees on the east side of the garden which contribute positively to the conservation area.

1 and 2 Oakleigh Gardens

Two detached modern houses with steep double pitched roofs and projecting gabled windows on the east side. These lie behind the 19th century wall on the west side of Parkes Passage.

16 and 17

Pair of semi-detached post-war bungalows with brick facades and steep double pitched tiled roofs. Makes a neutral contribution to the conservation area.

Single storey brick building with steep double pitched roof, with long axis running east-west. Gable facade to east. Makes a neutral contribution to the conservation area.

Wesley Methodist Church (Grade II)

Largely early C19. Lined-out stucco facade over brick with slate roof. Two storeys and five bays, with one bay recessed to east, and two bays contained beneath a pediment. Doorway towards west of elevation in projecting porch with flat entablature carried on Doric columns. Lower windows, and additional doorway in east bay, have stilted shouldered architraves. Central windows contain stained glass. Upper round arched windows with keystones. Oculus with stressed voussoirs in apex of pediment. Heavy entablature and string course. Brick wing to rear links chapel to manse, a mid C19 addition.

Parkes Passage - East side (South to North)

The south end is a vehicular access leading to Parkes Quay, with a painted brick wall to the front garden of 9 Parkes Passage (Grade II). North of Parkes Quay the passage is a tarmacadamed pedestrian route.

9 and 10 (Grade II)

A pair of two storey cottages, circa 1780, built for the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal Company. Painted brick facade; slate roof with dentil brick eaves and brick stacks to gable ends and to rear. Three bay front range; northwest wing at rear extended in mid 19th century and incorporates wash house with curved plan; northeast wing at rear has parallel central two-storey wing added mid 19th century. Symmetrical south facade with three windows, with mid C20 leaded casements (after the original). Original corniced architraves to front doors.

The late 18th century brick wall extends south, along the west side of garden and is also listed Grade II.

Garages

A pair of modern garages in a single storey building with a steep double pitched roof, with large forecourt on the south side.

Hall / Sunday School

A single storey 19th century building in Gothic (early English) style. Brick facades in Flemish bond with yellow brick quoins and mullions. Lattice framed metal windows with small diamond panes. Openings have pointed stone arches. West facade has projecting gabled bay with tripartite windows. The entrance is at the north end, a projecting brick porch with pitched roof. The door opening has a pointed brick arch and the door is a vertically boarded, with decorative hinges.

A stone plaque below the main window on the west facade reads:

‘To the glory and praise of God and in loving remembrance of the Stourport Methodists of the past generation. These Wesleyan schools were erected by T. J. Baldwin AD 1875’.

8a and 8b

A pair of 19th century houses with brick facades, steep double pitched roofs, with brick dentil course at eaves level. The west facades have a canted bay at ground floor level with pitched roofs. One window each at first floor level under a lintel. Low front garden wall with semi-circular brick copings and simple metal railings. Tall central chimney stack on west side of roof.

5, 6 and 7

A terrace of three modern two storey two bay brick faced houses, built circa 2007 (?). Central house has gable end. Entrances porches with pitched roofs and gables above the doors. Makes a neutral contribution to the conservation area.

1 and 2

Two storey modern building with rendered facades. Two horizontal window openings at first floor level highly glazed shopfronts at ground floor. set back from historic building line, with tarmacadam forecourt. (Not of significance) .

Parkes Quay

1 to 10

A modern development of two and three storey terraced houses facing east over the canal. Brick facades, with timber clad projecting bays with gables on the three storey buildings. Small projecting roofs over entrances. The three storey houses have garages. Timber casement windows. Steeply pitched tiled roofs. Entered from the south under a wide arched opening.

Historic crane on the west bank of the canal just north of the modern houses. Moorings for boats on the west bank.

At the north end is a modern single storey block, facing east to the canal. Brick facades and tiled roofs. Timber boarded doors and three pane casement windows.

12 and 14 (Grade II)

Two storey 19th century Former Canal Maintenance Yard Workshop with red brick facades and steep double pitched tiled roof. Brick dentil course at eaves level. Central gable on south façade with first floor doorway below. First floor window openings have semi-circular brick arches. Metal multi-pane windows. Large arched openings at ground floor level. Modern window on east wall. North facade is blind. Small rooflights in northern pitch. On south side are single storeyed extensions with lean-to roofs, the furthest of Welsh slate with two brick stacks. Nearest to main range a round-arched cast-iron window with Gothick traceried glazing, then wide cart entry and three two-light casements and two doorways.

Severn Mews

Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, 4a, 5

A terrace of late 18th century two storey two bay houses on the west side of Parkes Passage, accessed from the north, west of the Methodist Chapel. Brick facades in English bond and steep double pitched plain tiled roof. Originally known as ‘Court, 1 High Street’. Ground floor openings have shallow segmental brick arches, comprising two brick courses. First floor openings have brick lintels. Brick dentil course at eaves level.

No. 4a is a modern infill. Stretcher bond brick façade, with similar details to the other buildings. Gabled dormers in roof.

Land at the rear of 21-22 High Street and 11 York Street

Used as a tarmacadamed car park with brick boundary walls (part 18th century/19th century) on the west side. The historic walls are of significance. On the east side a terrace of single storey flat roofed garages, with up-and-over doors. To the south of these is an early 19th century (?) brick wall with stone copings. In the southeast corner the site is bounded by a modern timber boarded fence with concrete posts. At the north end is a modern single storey building at the rear of 20 High Street .

Land at the rear of 16 York Street

Used as a surface car park. 19th century brick boundary walls with stone copings on the west, east (garden wall of 1 and 2 Oakleigh Gardens) and north sides. South gable end of 5 Severn Mews in northeast corner. The low brick wall at the rear of the buildings on the north side of York Street, on the south side. High brick wall on east side of entrance from York Street, at rear of no. 17 York Street. These historic walls are all of significance.

Appendix II. Shopfront Gazetteer

There are a number of good shopfronts which make a positive contribution to the character and appearance of the conservation area. Some shopfronts have been much altered but contain some original features. These are illustrated in the following plates:

1 High Street – Victorian [Plate 1].
2 and 2a High Street – Neo-Georgian (20th century) * [Plate 2].
3 High Street – Victorian [Plate 3].
11 High Street – Neo-Georgian (20th century) [Plate 4].
12 High Street - Victorian * [Plate 5].
17 High Street Classical – date unknown [Plate 6].
18 High Street – Victorian [Plate 7].
19 and 19a – Georgian [Plate 8].
20 and 20A – Classical (Georgian?) framework. Edwardian shopfronts * [Plates 9 and 10].
22 and 23 and 24/25High Street – remains of Victorian shopfronts – console brackets to fascia [Plates 11, 12 and 13].
28 High Street – Victorian rendered arched framework (WH Smith) [Plate 14].
29 High Street – Victorian * [Plate 15].
33 High Street – 20th century in 19th century style [Plate 16].
35 High Street – Victorian * [Plate 17].
36 High Street – Victorian * [Plate 18].
39-40 High Street – Georgian * [Plate 19].
42 High Street – Neo-Georgian * [Plate 20].
5-7 Lombard Street – Neo-Georgian [Plate 21].
15 Lombard Street – Victorian [Plate 22].
4 York Street – Victorian style [Plate 23].
6 York Street – Victorian [Plate 24].
7 York Street – Victorian style [Plate 25].
14 and 15 York Street – Victorian style [Plate 26].

* These are considered to be the shopfronts which make the greatest contribution to the character and appearance of the conservation area.

Appendix III: Listed Buildings in the Area

Note: All these buildings are listed at Grade II.

Click on the address to be taken to the list entry on the Historic England website - https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list

2 AND 2A, HIGH STREET

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1209467

10, 11 AND 12, HIGH STREET

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1210117

13 AND 14, HIGH STREET

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1209455

15, 16 AND 17, HIGH STREET

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1210122

18, HIGH STREET

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1292642

19 AND 19A, HIGH STREET

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1210126

20, HIGH STREET

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1209456

21, HIGH STREET

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1292313

22, 23 AND 23A, HIGH STREET

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1210132

28 AND 29, HIGH STREET

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1209457

30 AND 31, HIGH STREET

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1210134

32, HIGH STREET

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1292643

33, HIGH STREET

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1210136

35 AND 36, HIGH STREET

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1209458

THE WHEATSHEAF PUBLIC HOUSE AND ATTACHED OUTBUILDINGS

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1210143

STOURPORT ON SEVERN WAR MEMORIALS

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1459050

3, MITTON STREET

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1292251

4, MITTON STREET

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1389574

FORMER CANAL MAINTENANCE YARD WORKSHOP

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1209471

10-14, LION HILL

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1292647

THE BELL PUBLIC HOUSE

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1209463

THE WHITE LION PUBLIC HOUSE

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1209462

WESLEYAN CHAPEL AND ATTACHED MANSE

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1217923

9 AND 10 AND ATTACHED WALL TO SOUTH

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1088099

14, YORK STREET

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1292612

FORMER LORD NELSON PUBLIC HOUSE

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1218077

16, YORK STREET

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1218039

OAKLEIGH GUEST HOUSE INCLUDING ATTACHED GARDEN BOUNDARY WALL TO NORTH EAST

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1380943

TOLL OFFICE ADJACENT TO YORK STREET LOCK

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1292613

THE LOCK SHOP

Grade: II

List Entry Number: 1209476

Appendix IV. Extracts from the Wyre Forest District Local Plan

Wyre Forest District Local Plan (2016-2036)

25 Safeguarding the Historic Environment

Policy DM.23 - Safeguarding the Historic Environment

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

25.1 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.

25.2 Local heritage listing is a means for a community and a local authority to jointly identify heritage assets that are valued as distinctive elements of the local historic environment. The Local Heritage List identifies those heritage assets that are not protected by statutory designations. A Local Heritage List provides clarity on the location of these assets and what is significant about them. Their local interest could be related to the social and economic history of the area, individuals of local importance, settlement patterns or the age, design and style of buildings. The Local Heritage List is not restricted to buildings. It may comprise sites, places or areas such as village greens or ponds. It may include structures such as bridges and sluices, and historic street furniture such as letter boxes, signposts or telephone boxes. Local Heritage Assets are not given any protection through Law, but the use of appropriate materials and design is encouraged in schemes for their alteration. Repairs should be undertaken on a like-for-like basis. The District Council will continue to compile and maintain its Local Heritage List for those undesignated heritage assets it considers to be of local interest and significance.

25.3 Pre-application discussions are encouraged, as this will allow the early identification of heritage issues, save time, reduce risk and improve the quality of applications and thereby encourage investment in the District. These discussions should involve the relevant local planning authority, applicants, architects and agents and heritage specialists and Parish or Town Councils working on Neighbourhood Plans. Proposals involving new build, repair, alteration or extension of heritage assets can conserve the significance of the existing asset and its setting. This may be achieved by means of appropriate siting, massing, form, height, scale, design and use of local materials.

25.4 The use of local building materials or the sourcing of building materials compatible with those used historically but no longer available (such as stone from local quarries which have closed) is of great importance in maintaining the character of the built historic environment. The Building Stones Database produced by the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Earth Heritage Trust provides data on the origins of building stone used in local buildings and the District Council will use evidence contained within this database to inform its decision making.

25.5 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.

25.6 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.

25.7 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.

26 Quality Design and Local Distinctiveness

Policy DM.24 Quality Design and Local Distinctiveness

All development will be expected to be of a high design quality. It will need to integrate effectively with its surroundings, in terms of form and function, reinforce local distinctiveness and conserve, and where appropriate, enhance cultural and heritage assets, landmarks and their settings. New and innovative designs which promote high levels of inclusivity and sustainability will be encouraged and supported where they enhance the overall quality of the built environment.

Applications should demonstrate, through a Design and Access Statement or other supporting evidence, how the objectives outlined in criterion 1 have been addressed. They will also need to address the following matters:

Siting and layout

The siting and layout of a development should reflect the given characteristics of the site in terms of its appearance and function. Orientation should take advantage of passive heating and cooling systems, offer shade as appropriate and provide for the use of renewable energy.

Relationship to Surroundings and to Other Development

Development proposals must complement the character of the area. In particular, development should respond to surrounding buildings and the distinctive features or qualities that contribute to the visual and heritage interest of the townscape, frontages, streets and landscape quality of the local area, and should integrate well into the existing street scene. Development should concentrate the most active uses or entrances on main thoroughfares and focal points, maximising the use of corner plots and the street frontage, and have appropriate regard to the common building line, historic street pattern and skyline.

Neighbouring Amenity

Development should provide an adequate level of privacy, outlook, sunlight and daylight, and should not be unduly overbearing.

Settlement Character

The distinct identity and character of settlements should be safeguarded and proposals should be consistent with the relevant Conservation Area Character Appraisal or Neighbourhood Plan. Design proposals should ensure that the prominent views, vistas and skylines of Bewdley, Stourport-on-Severn, Kidderminster and the village settlements are maintained and safeguarded, particularly where they relate to heritage assets, existing landmark buildings, and ‘gateway’ sites. Development at the urban edges should respect the rural setting.

Mix of Uses

To create vitality and interest, proposals should incorporate a mix of uses where this is appropriate to the location.

Flexible Design

Development should incorporate flexible designs, addressing access to public open spaces and enabling adaption for future needs and uses in terms of internal spaces and extensions. It should avoid being prejudicial to the development of larger areas.

Scale, Height and Massing

The scale, height and massing of development must be appropriate to the setting of the site and the surrounding landscape character and townscape, including existing urban grain and density. The footprint should be appropriate for the locality and not represent over-development of the site.

Links, Connectivity and Access

Design and layouts should maximise opportunities for pedestrian and cycle linkages to the surrounding area and local services and should be generally accessible for all users, including those with disabilities. Vehicular traffic from the development should be able to access the highway safely and the road network should have the capacity to accommodate the type and volume of traffic from the development.

Detailed Design and Materials

The detailing and materials of development should be of high quality and appropriate to its context, avoiding inappropriate features and detail. Design should have regard to sustainable construction approaches and ensure adaptability to changes in the climate.

Appropriate Facilities

Development should incorporate the parking facilities required by the current Parking Standards and provision for the storage of bicycles. Satisfactory access and provision for the parking, servicing and manoeuvring of vehicles should be provided in accordance with the recognised standards. Parking solutions should provide secure parking with adequate natural surveillance without resulting in cars dominating a development.

Landscaping

Development should provide high quality hard and soft landscaping. The importance of soft landscaping, using appropriate species and incorporating arrangements for long-term management is emphasised. Existing trees should be incorporated into development or replacements provided where a tree survey demonstrates trees are not worthy of retention or retention is not possible.

Public Realm

Public realm and open spaces should be well-designed, appropriately detailed and maintained via management agreements. They should also incorporate active frontages where appropriate. Proposals should include hard and soft surfaces, public art, street furniture, shade, lighting and signage as appropriate to the development. Open space and play provision should be sited to take advantage of natural surveillance.

Creating a Safe and Secure Environment

Opportunities for creating a safe and secure environment and providing surveillance should be included, principally through the layout and positioning of buildings, spaces and uses. Where appropriate, development should incorporate measures for crime reduction that are consistent with those recommended by the Secured by Design guides. Buildings and their surrounding spaces should incorporate fire safety measures and be designed to allow rapid access by the emergency services.

New development should be inclusive and accessible for all users including those with disabilities.

Reasoned Justification

26.1 The NPPF requires Local Planning Authorities to prepare robust policies on design. Good design is a key aspect of sustainable development (NPPF paragraph 126) and excellence in design can create a sense of place, improve the attractiveness of a location and create safer places to live and work, thereby enhancing the quality of people’s lives. Much detailed advice on design issues exists at the national level but, given the importance of the issue locally, it is considered essential to have a specific development management policy at the District level.

26.2 This policy is underpinned by the Council’s Adopted Design Guidance SPD 2015. This SPD will be updated following adoption of the Local Plan.

26.3 Good design can have a number of direct and indirect advantages. Well- designed well-connected places provide safe and attractive pedestrian environments and can therefore encourage sustainable modes of transport. Well-designed buildings can also incorporate sustainable and climate change mitigation features which maximise natural heating, cooling and lighting and provide opportunities for the generation of renewable energy.

26.4 Poor design, on the other hand, has the potential to detract from people’s day-to-day lives through poor building relationships, car-dominated layouts and a sub-standard public realm, all of which add little to a sense of place and have a negative impact on land values, property prices and the environment in general.

26.5 The landscapes and townscapes of the District represent a legacy of previous developments and they frequently present a history of design styles. Whilst many aspects of this design legacy are pleasing in terms of their aesthetics and function there are other examples which neither are pleasing nor continue to function well.

26.6 Mixed use developments add to the vitality and viability of places. Residential properties within town centres extend the length of time activity takes place and create natural surveillance. Small business units and retail outlets within primarily urban areas increase the activity within those areas making places feel safer.

26.7 Good design is also a crucial element in supporting economic prosperity, and can be an important factor in attracting inward investment and promoting a vibrant tourist economy. Where some employment development proposals require the accommodation of specific processes, design solutions should strive to achieve a positive aesthetic without compromising the functionality of the development.

26.8 It is essential that full consideration is given to achieving sustainable development which counteracts anticipated climatic variations over the lifetime of a new building or development through the choice of location, design and materials. It is also important to address ecological integrity and there may be opportunities for slowing excess water through the use of green infrastructure, and use of guttering which can cope with higher-intensity rainfall. Reducing the demand for energy and improving energy efficiency is also an important starting point for achieving sustainable design. Further advice and guidance can be sought from the UK Climate Change Risk Assessment, which covers risks to infrastructure and the built environment.

26.9 Good design is also vital in protecting and enhancing the special character of Wyre Forest. The design principles contained within this policy provide a design framework for new development that is explained further in the Design Guidance Supplementary Planning Document. They may also be complemented by Neighbourhood Plans, Management Plans and Conservation Area Appraisals that can provide the ”fine grain” local design detail. In accordance with the NPPF, it is expected that pre-application discussions should include design-related matters.

26.10 Where development proposals are required to be accompanied by a Design and Access Statement, these should be used to explain how the principles of good design, including those set out in this policy’s criteria, have been incorporated into the development. This policy should be read in conjunction with other relevant policies in the WFDP and proposals will be expected to demonstrate that they have been informed by current available guidance.

Policy DM.25 - Design of Extensions and Alterations

Extensions and alterations, whether to residential or non-residential properties should not have a serious adverse effect on the amenity of neighbouring residents or occupiers.

Residential extensions and alterations should:

Accord with the 45 degree code
Be in scale and keeping with the form, materials, architectural characteristics and detailing of the original building
Be subservient to and not cumulatively, when taken with previous extensions, overwhelm the original building, which should retain its visual dominance
Harmonise with the existing landscape or townscape and not create incongruous features
Not encroach onto neighbouring land not owned by or under the control of the applicant, including highway pavements where properties are built up to the back of pavement
Unless it can be demonstrated that there is no other alternative, the development of flat roofed extensions will not be allowed.

Proposals involving the extension or alteration of an existing non-residential building should:

Accord with the 45 degree code if located next to a residential property.
Harmonise with the existing landscape or townscape and be complementary to the appearance of the existing building.
Not unduly diminish the amount of ancillary operational space.

Reasoned Justification

26.11 Extensions to dwellings constitute one of the most frequent proposals for development. A well-designed extension may add to the value of a property whereas unsympathetic design may not only reduce the value of the building but, potentially, its overall life-span.

26.12 As a general rule extensions should be subservient to and reflect the scale and character of the existing building. Extensions, both in themselves and when taken together with previous works, should not dominate the original building. A cumulative succession of modest extensions on a building could have a detrimental impact on the surrounding area, particularly sensitive open countryside and Green Belt. For this reason extensions must be in scale with the original building rather than the building at the time of the application.

26.13 This policy is underpinned by the Council’s Adopted Design Guidance SPD 2015. This SPD will be updated following adoption of the Local Plan.

26.14 Most dwelling houses in the District feature traditional pitched roofs, and in order to ensure that two storey extensions to such dwellings harmonise in general design terms, the use of flat roofs on such extensions will not normally be permitted.

26.15 The designers of extensions must consider the 45 degree code in order to protect the amenity of neighbouring residents. Proposals that do not adhere to the code will not be permitted.

26.16 Extensions and alterations to non-residential buildings must have regard to their impacts on the visual integrity of the building and local amenity. Such proposals should not seriously diminish the amount of operational space to the detriment of local amenity and safety.

26.17 Where properties have been constructed to the back of the pavement with no amenity space in front of the elevation facing the highway, extensions or alterations (including external thermal cladding) will technically fall outside the curtilage and will not be permitted in the interests of highway safety and maintenance of utility services.

Policy DM.26 - Landscaping and Boundary Treatment

Landscape Schemes and Boundary Treatments should be:

Specific to the place, recognise the context, reflect existing materials where these contribute to the character of the area and be demonstrably maintainable

Landscape schemes must demonstrate that they:

Are informed by the Landscape Character Assessment and/or Historic Landscape Characterisation, protecting existing trees, hedges and other landscape features where possible.
Provide adequate room for growth and acknowledge the importance of existing trees, hedges and plants when specifying their location
Predominantly use local native species to protect and improve biodiversity
Incorporate features to clearly mark desire lines, enhance or create views or vistas, and clearly define public and private spaces
Incorporate planting appropriate to the prevention of crime and vandalism
Provide imaginative, durable and porous hard landscaping solutions which add to a sense of place and local distinctiveness, meet policy requirements on water management integrating SUDS where possible
Utilise lighting and architectural features to give artistic effect where appropriate to the locality
Encourage walking and cycling and provide direct routes to relevant services
Have a sustainable management plan providing for maintenance and aftercare

Boundary Treatments must be designed to:

Reflect the local landscape or urban character and appearance of the area and protect existing trees, hedges or distinct landscape features to protect and improve biodiversity
Reinstate and include appropriate new vegetative boundaries wherever possible
Provide woodland planting where new development is proposed along transport corridors if this is appropriate to the existing landscape type or natural habitats

Reasoned Justification

26.18 Landscaping schemes and boundary treatments are an important aspect of design. When the topography of an area or the layout of the buildings is taken into account, a combination of good design and landscaping can dramatically reduce the impact of development.

26.19 Wyre Forest District has a wealth of native species which should be utilised in landscaping schemes to harmonise with the character of the wider area.

26.20 Insensitive landscaping schemes can harm the openness of the Green Belt and impact on historic views of the local towns and villages.

26.21 The definition of public and private spaces is important to facilitate future management of landscapes in both urban and rural settings. Landscape schemes require a clear and sustainable management plan to ensure that they do not degenerate over time into wasteland.

26.22 The use of certain plants (particularly those with spikes or thorns) can deter vandals, burglars and other criminal activity. Consideration should be given to how sensitive landscaping will contribute to a reduction in crime whilst being manageable and attractive.

26.23 The integration of Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems into hard landscaping schemes can enrich biodiversity and ecology whilst contributing to a reduction in flood risk See Policy SP32.

26.24 Architectural and lighting features can enhance and contribute to an increase activity levels in and around landscaping schemes which can make these places better integrated into an urban environment.

26.25 It is important to be able to easily identify the boundary between public and private spaces. Walls, fences, railings, gates, archways, paving and signage can all be used and should form an integral part of the design solution.

26.26 Walling with or without timber infill panels, designed as an integral part of the overall development will enhance a housing development over the longer term, particularly when used in association with well-designed landscaping. Timber fencing along boundaries with the public domain is considered inappropriate due to its limited lifespan and vulnerability to damage.

26.27 The need for a secure perimeter around industrial, commercial, business and retail premises is recognised, especially where there are external storage areas or vehicle depots. It is important, however, that the choice of fencing and screening can harmonise well with the wider setting.

26.28 Where there is a requirement for screening, this can be designed as a work of art and this will be encouraged to mitigate adverse impacts where appropriate.

26.29 Landscaping is an important element of design and should augment good design rather than screening or hiding poor design.

26.30 Landscape schemes whether for residential or non-residential properties should have regards to the design principles set out within the Council’s Adopted Design Guidance SPD (2015, and subsequent revisions).

Policy DM.27 - Advertisements

Proposals for advertisements must:

Not have a detrimental impact on the amenity of the area or building in/on which they are displayed.
Not be prejudicial to public safety by reasons of their size, location or content.
Not obstruct a highway or public right of way either directly or through maintenance requirements.
Not confuse users of highways, navigable waterways and railways.

Proposals for large advertisement hoardings or groups of small hoardings will only be permitted within towns at the following locations:

Vacant plots in large commercial or industrial areas or to provide temporary screening of those areas whilst undergoing development.
Around sites identified by the Council as long-term eyesores where alternative screening will not adequately enhance the amenity of the area.

Proposals for advertisements within, on or adjacent to heritage assets must:

Meet the criteria contained in Policies SP.21 - Historic Environment and DM.23 - Safeguarding the Historic Environment
Reflect traditional signage compatible with the design and age of the heritage asset.
Avoid the use of internally illuminated signage or box fascias.
Avoid the use of non-traditional materials such as UPVC, Perspex and Plastics.
Be in scale and proportion to the heritage asset on which they are displayed.
Advance Warning Signs that would result in harm to the amenity of the townscape or landscape will not be permitted.

Freestanding signs, in addition to meeting the criteria set out in Section 1 above, must:

Relate well to the business of the site.
Not lead to a predominance of such signage.
Be sited within the forecourt or curtilage of the building to which they relate

Reasoned Justification

26.31 The display of advertisements is subject to a separate consent process within the planning system. (47)

26.32 In assessing applications to display advertisements the Planning Authority will have regard to the desirability of preserving the character and appearance of the general locality and the architectural quality or character of buildings when considering amenity issues.

26.33 Illuminated signage will only be permitted where lighting is unobtrusive or not considered to be harmful to the character and appearance of the site or surroundings. When internal illumination is proposed individual illuminated letters are preferred.

26.34 Advertisement hoardings may harm the visual integrity of buildings if they are placed without due regard for the building’s design and fenestration pattern. Proposals for externally mounted advertisement hoardings should demonstrate that the visual amenity of the building or area will not be compromised.

26.35 The maintenance of public safety will be of paramount concern when considering applications for advertisements adjacent to railways, navigable waterways and highways.

26.36 The placing of an advertisement on or close to listed buildings is unlikely to preserve their special interest and is best avoided. Proposals affecting a Conservation Area should demonstrate that its character will be preserved or enhanced.

26.37 Consent will be granted for outdoor advertisements (including poster hoardings) provided the display will not adversely affect the amenity of the area or impact on public safety. Large hoardings in rural areas are likely to be out of place because of their urbanising effect.

Policy DM.28 - Wyre Forest Waterways

River Severn

Within the towns of Stourport-on-Severn and Bewdley developments and initiatives that make a positive contribution to the creation of a high quality riverside environment will be supported where these do not conflict or otherwise harm the character of the Conservation Areas or the wider landscape.

River Stour

The opening up and enhancement of the River Stour in Kidderminster town centre will be encouraged. Within the towns of Stourport-on-Severn and Kidderminster developments and initiatives that make a positive contribution to the creation of a high quality riverside environment will be supported where these do not conflict or otherwise harm the character of the Conservation Areas or the wider landscape.

Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal

Developments and initiatives that make a positive contribution to the creation of an attractive and high quality canal-side environment will be supported.

Development adjacent to the canal should, where appropriate, provide a strong, active frontage onto the waterside providing natural surveillance and promoting high levels of activity during the day.

Development in proximity to the canal should promote its use as a sustainable pedestrian and cycle route with towpath surfacing appropriate to the area through which the canal passes and its likely use. Canal-side landscaping should be appropriate for the location, set back to allow for future growth, allow for safe navigation and feature robust barriers to ensure vehicles do not enter the waterway.

All development proposals affecting the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal Conservation Area (a designated heritage asset) must comply with the requirements of Policy DM.23 Safeguarding the Historic Environment.

Reasoned Justification

26.38 The District’s two major rivers are fundamental to the history, heritage and future of the District.

River Severn

26.39 The River Severn shaped the historic development of Bewdley as an inland river port, later overtaken by Stourport-on-Severn, Britain’s first canal town. Although the industrial role of the river has ceased it remains an important dominant feature both culturally and economically.

26.40 Whilst the River Severn plays an important role in attracting tourism to both Stourport-on-Severn and Bewdley, the potential for tourism associated with the River Stour and the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal in Kidderminster has yet to be exploited.

River Stour

26.41 The River Stour, running north to south through the district powered medieval fulling mills and encouraged iron production at several semi-rural locations. Running through the centre of Kidderminster it was vital to the rapid industrial growth of the town, and, at a slightly later date, the industrialisation of Stourport. Unlike the navigable River Severn, the Stour ran through culverts in Kidderminster powering manufactories and serving dye-houses. Recent developments have exposed more of the river to view, however the town has yet to make the most of the opportunities this provides.

26.42 The River Stour enters the River Severn at Stourport-on-Severn. The potential of the river at this location has been largely over-looked in recent years; however, there is potential for sensitive development adjacent to the river on former industrial sites where flood risk assessment allows.

Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal - Stourport-on-Severn

26.43 Stourport-on-Severn is unique as the only town in Britain built solely as a consequence of the construction of a canal. At one time only second to Birmingham as the Midlands' busiest inland port, despite the significant decline in industry in the town the canal remains crucial to the local tourism offer.

26.44 The historic and cultural significance of the canal to the development of Stourport-on-Severn and to the industrialisation of the wider District is explained within the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal Conservation Area Appraisal.

26.45 Whilst Stourport Basins have benefited from successful restoration schemes, their potential as a visitor attraction remains secondary to that of the River Severn and the amusements lining its banks. Longer visitor stays could be encouraged by capitalising on heritage-based tourism.

Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal – Kidderminster

26.46 The canal runs through the town centre and adjacent to several large retailers as well as places to eat and drink, however the potential of the canal has yet to be fulfilled.

26.47 There is great economic potential yet to be unlocked in Kidderminster provided by canal-based tourism. Anecdotal evidence, however, suggests that a fear of anti-social behaviour and a perceived remoteness from the town centre deter all but brief stops. The canal does not benefit from much natural surveillance and litter, graffiti and poorly surfaced and signposted pedestrian routes contribute to a perception that the town does not relate well to the canal. Given the close proximity to the canal of supermarkets and restaurants easily accessible by car consideration must be given to supporting development which forges stronger links between the canal and the town, whilst providing activity throughout the day.

Nature

26.48 The District’s waterways present an opportunity to provide essential green infrastructure and biodiversity corridors and habitats. This policy should be read in conjunction with policies SP.23 - Protecting and Enhancing Biodiversity, SP.24 Protecting and Enhancing Geodiversity and SP.28 Green Infrastructure.

Relevant Supplementary Planning Documents

Historic England Publications

2024 Stourport 2 section 8

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Stourport Conservation Area No. 2 Appraisal and Management Recommendations

Appendices

Contents

Appendix I: Gazetteer of Buildings in the Conservation Area

High Street – North End

High Street – East Side (North to South)

High Street – West Side (South to North)

Lombard Street - West side (South to North)

Lombard Street - East side (South to North)

Mitton Street - North Side (West to East)

Mitton Street – South side (West to East)

Severn Road (West side)

Lion Hill - East side (North to South)

York Street – North side (West to East)

Parkes Passage - West side (South to North)

Parkes Passage - East side (South to North)

Parkes Quay

Severn Mews

Land at the rear of 21-22 High Street and 11 York Street

Land at the rear of 16 York Street

Appendix II. Shopfront Gazetteer

Appendix III: Listed Buildings in the Area

Appendix IV. Extracts from the Wyre Forest District Local Plan

Wyre Forest District Local Plan (2016-2036)

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