The Council is responsible for the designation and review of conservation areas. It is currently undertaking a rolling program of Character Appraisals for each of its 12 conservation areas. Eastbourne’s Conservation Area Appraisals are accompanied by two additional documents, 'Conservation Areas in Eastbourne Companion Document' and 'The Guidance Manual for Designation and Review of Conservation Areas'. 'Conservation Areas in Eastbourne Companion Document' sets out the general historic background of Eastbourne’s development, allowing for more specific histories to be referred to in each conservation areas appraisal. 'The Guidance Manual for Designation and Review of Conservation Areas' was produced in line with English Heritage guidance and contains a set of criteria, developed for assessing the designation of local conservation area, and the reviewing of their boundaries. These are set out in Appendix A.
Each Conservation Area Character Appraisal will consist of two sections. Section A is the Appraisal; this provides an overview of the history and development of each area and describes what it is that makes the conservation area special. They also identify specific features such as important views, historic buildings, buildings of local interest, trees, open spaces etc. which contribute towards their character. Appraisals may even include intangible qualities such as the characteristic activities, sights and smells of a place. Boundary reviews fall under this section of the appraisal and will be carried out in line with the criteria set in the 'The Guidance Manual for Designation and Review of Conservation Areas'.
The Section B of the appraisal is the Management Plan, where opportunity sites and features that could be improved are identified. This provides a useful basis to develop proposals for the preservation and enhancement of the conservation area should the opportunity arise through the planning system. Positive management is needed to allow for change and this section of the text will identify areas, where national planning policy and guidance, as well as local authorities and residents can help to ensure preservation and enhancement of the conservation area’s character and appearance, as well as allowing for positive development within the area. The character appraisals will help to ensure that the special qualities of each conservation area are not harmed by inappropriate development.
The process of the appraisal demands a high level of participation from local residents. They are encouraged to comment on the draft documents as part of the consultation process, via this website.
You can view or download maps of all 12 Eastbourne Conservation Areas below.
