The Cabinet Member for Planning introduced the report which set-out some proposed boundary changes and to confirm that following the recent review work, the conservation area should be formally re-designated under Section 69 of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act, 1990.  The Cabinet Member spoke on the setting of Tonge Mill and its potential as one of the most important historical sites in the country.

The Conservation and Design Manager outlined the historic importance of the area and spoke on the buried archaeology on the site and explained that the proposed extensions would serve to help recognise the hidden history of the area.  He said there was an error in paragraph 4.3 on page 341 of the report where the reference should be to Tonge Conservation Area.

A Member welcomed the review and said that it was important that this area was protected.  She spoke on the history of the site and the amazing wildlife, and considered it to be a real ‘gem’, and a Swale asset.

A visiting Ward Member welcomed the review and emphasised the importance and appeal of this type of typical Kent countryside.  He considered there should be improved accessibility to the area, and did not want it to become ‘clogged-up’ with traffic.  The Ward Member also raised concern with the potential of further housing nearby.  The Leader welcomed the involvement of the Ward Member in the review.

Resolved:

(1)      That the responses received from the public consultation exercise (summarised in the response table at Appendix iii and set-out in full at Appendix v) be noted.

(2)      That the content of the conservation area character appraisal and associated management strategy document for the Tonge Conservation Area be noted.

(3)      In light of (1) and (2) above, that it be agreed that the Tonge Conservation Area was of special architectural or historic interest, the character or appearance of which it was desirable to preserve or enhance, and that as such, that it should be re-designated as a conservation area in accordance with Section 69 of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act, 1990.

(4)      In light of (1) and (2) above, that it be agreed that the boundary to the conservation area be re-drawn as proposed on Map 1 and the related series of maps in the character appraisal and management plan document for the Tonge Conservation Area be formally adopted for development management purposes.