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March 14, 2005
Best Value Performance Indicators
Local government is monitored in a variety of ways. Best value indicators for 2005-2006 have been published by government, and Councils have to report on how they met various targets. The following seems entirely relevant to the Crossroads project, which surprising as it may seem, is about an area that largely falls within a Conservation Area.
Character appraisals should be carried out on all new conservation areas as part of the process of designation and regularly reviewed thereafter. Retrospective appraisals for older designations should be a priority. All appraisals should be consistent with guidance published by English Heritage.
‘Up-to-date’ for the purposes of this indicator means within the last 5 years from today’s date.
Local circumstances will determine the order for retrospective appraisals and reviews (which should be at least once every five years). For example, appraisals of areas under the greatest development pressure or whose local character is being eroded by ‘local improvements’ should take precedence.
Community involvement with the designation and management of conservation areas represents best practice and provides an opportunity to develop an environment that attracts economic benefi ts such as inward investment. This should be consistent with the local authority’s statement of community involvement (SCI).
This seems a useful way forward when plans are drawn up for the area.
The full information on the best value indicator can be downloaded here (pdf).
English Heritage publishes detailed guidance on the management
of conservation areas. This is currently being updated, but is due for publication by April 2005. It will be available on English Heritage’s website at http://www.english-heritage.org.uk.
Posted by martin at March 14, 2005 08:23 AM