The Umbrella Shop - Trust Annual Report 1972
Many Winchester citizens regarded the demolition of the attractive Umbrella Shop in the Square as the most deplorable act of the year.
It gives rise to the thought "What is the use of Conservation areas?" Those of us who thought that protection would be afforded to such charming examples of Winchester's past, were greatly mistaken.
The irony of the situation is that under the Town and Country Planning (Amendment) Act which received the Royal Assent on July 27th, this would have had more protection.
The third (and very welcome) innovation contained in the new Act is a power enabling local planning authorities in England and Wales (subject to the approval of the Secretary of State) to control the demolition of unlisted buildings in conservation areas. Previously, demolition did not need planning consent except in the case of listed buildings. Many conservation areas contain buildings such as those on the old Grade III lists, groups of buildings or whole streets which, although not of listing quality nevertheless contribute a great deal to the area. Some areas will have a preponderence of such buildings whose protection is essential to the appearance and character of the area. Planning Authorities will now need to identify those buildings, groups or streets in conservation areas, which should be made subject to demolition control. In many conservation areas it will be appropriate to seek Direction to control the demolition of all buildings.