A “Conservation Area” is “an area of special
architectural or historic interest, the character or appearance of
which it is desirable to preserve or enhance”. Such areas are
designated by the District Council on the advice of English
Heritage.
Rattlesden was designated a Conservation Area in
1975. The aim of this is to ensure that any alterations or
innovations are in keeping. This not only affects building, but
trees and open spaces too, and even street
furnitur
e or commercial
premises.
At present, the area is essentially the heart of
the village, reaching from Orwell Cottage on the Stowmarket Road,
over the Sports field, to Birds Green, up the hill to Glebe House,
round St Nicholas’ Close and a ¼ mile or so along the Felsham Road,
the school up to Old Mill House and over the top to Rattlesden
Hall.
As can be seen from this description, it does
not mean that new style buildings are prohibited, but rather that
their visual impact on the area is carefully assessed before
planning permission is given. With this in mind a committee
was formed in 2003 to produce a Village Design Statement. This has
now been published and a copy was delivered to each household in
Rattlesden. Further copies can be obtained from the Parish
Council.
How does this affect you?
Firstly, all of us can anticipate living in or near an “unspoilt”
village for many years to come. Secondly, if you live in the
Conservation Area it will be as well to check with the Conservation
Officer at the District Council before making any alterations to
your home or garden, as there may be restrictions on the types of
building materials you are allowed to use. If you wish to remove or
cut back a tree or hedge, the District Council requires six weeks’
notice. During this time they will send their Tree Officer to visit
you and on his recommendation, will either do nothing at all or
impose a tree preservation order.
Contacts
Mid Suffolk District Council
Rattlesden Parish Council