The Hampshire Chronicle Project - TrustNews Summer 1998
Introductory Meeting: Friday 19 June 5.30 pm to 6.30 pm The Local Studies Library, Jewry Street, Winchester
Led by Robin Merton and Phillipa Stevens
The Winchester Preservation Trust, together with the Countryside Commission, Hampshire County Council, Winchester City Council, the Hampshire Gardens Trust and the Hampshire Wildlife Trust have recently commissioned Landscape Design Associates to carry out an important study, The Townscape and Landscape Assessment of Winchester City, its Setting and Approaches.
The purpose of the Study is to provide a strategic, objective database of information on the environmental capital. This means the archaeological, built, social, cultural, industrial and natural heritage and environmental assets. All these elements contribute to the character of the City and its setting. The boundary of the study area is currently being determined by research and survey work but it is approximately the bowl formed by the valley and hill in which the City is set.
An important part of the Study is to determine those historic and contemporary elements of the environmental capital within the study area that are of particular importance to the people of Winchester. One objective way of finding this information is to research the letter pages of The Hampshire Chronicle over the last ten years. If local people have been concerned enough about their local heritage to write to the paper and the Editor has considered the topic to be of sufficient concern to publish it, that is a measure of public interest. This research will not only inform the Study but also be of lasting value to the Winchester Preservation Trust in their work to conserve the character of the City.
At the meeting on 19th June, Robin will explain the importance of the project. Copies of the plan for the study area will be available. Mrs Phillipa Stevens, County Local Studies Librarian, will explain the research method and the use of the the Studies Library. It is hoped to find a number of volunteers prepared to help when it would be convenient for them to do so. Library staff are always on hand to give advice so the work should not be too daunting and it will be a major asset to the Preservation Trust.
Do come on 19th June. If you are able to attend, please ring Robin on 01962 853690, preferably by 15th June as it would be most helpful to know numbers in advance.