The developer who has replaced all the timber sash windows to the front of 43 Surrey Street with plastic (see June/July issue of The Whistler ) has learned a very expensive lesson. He failed to apply for planning permission in the first instance, but then when Council officers caught up with him, his retrospective application was refused as the loss of timber sash windows was considered unacceptable in a Conservation Area. Continue reading Jim Gowans’ West Hill Watch, Oct 18→
Whilst the loss of a retail unit at No.23 might be regretted in a location so near to Brighton station, the proposal to convert this redundant shop to a studio flat is to be welcomed because it would greatly improve the appearance of this part of the West Hill conservation area. According to the Council’s West Hill character statement, Surrey Street was laid out (as a thoroughfare) between 1836 and 1841. The two storey houses on each side of the street are unlisted but probably date from the 1840s, and with their bow fronts and roofs hidden behind parapets and accentuated by moulded cornices, they give the terraces a strong architectural character. Continue reading West Hill Watch, June 18→
Most residents of the West Hill will know that they live in a conservation area but may not be aware of the ‘Character Statement’ that the Council adopted for it in 2005. The purpose of the 9 page document is to describe the history and character of the area and to provide a context for policies contained in the City’s Development Plan. The City’s latest Development Plan (Part 1) has been revised and adopted this year, whilst Part 2 (more policy detail) is being discussed now, with a view to adoption in 2019. Continue reading West Hill’s ‘Character Statement’→
The City Plan Part One was adopted in March this year and sets out a vision for the development and growth of Brighton and Hove to the year 2030. It identifies the broad locations for development and employment; outlines policies that will guide decisions on planning applications and lists the infrastructure that will be required. Continue reading City Plan Part Two Consultation→
In February Councillor Lizzie Deane, together with a senior Projects Manager from the City Council and local residents, spent a morning walking the West Hill. The group identified a range of problems: damaged trees, blocked roadside drains, incorrectly positioned satellite dishes and illegal estate agents boards, all of which detract from the character of the conservation area. Sites for communal bins which have minimal impact on those living nearby were also considered, whilst it was also noted, with some dismay, that some residents continue to dump rubbish and unwanted furniture on pavements rather than disposing of such items more thoughtfully. Continue reading West Hill Watch→
Everything you ever wanted to know about life in Brighton (OK, and Hove)
The Whistler 