Members of the public are invited to have their say on proposals for the Grand Western Canal Conservation Area and Management Plan.

The Council is consulting on an update to the existing conservation area and management plan. The draft plan has been prepared to inform future change, development and design in and around the Grand Western Canal Conservation Area, so that its sensitivities and unique character can be preserved and enhanced.

This new Conservation Area and Management Plan is now out for consultation and focuses on:

• reviewing the existing boundary of the Grand Western Canal Conservation Area
• identifying key views and open spaces within the Conservation Area, and it’s setting
• offering guidance on common concerns regarding conservation areas
• proposing opportunities for enhancement of the Grand Western Canal Conservation Area
• identifying distinct Character Areas within the Conservation Area, noting the predominant building styles, forms, building materials, scale, and density
• recognising designated and non-designated heritage assets and their setting within the Conservation Area

A public consultation will run from Monday, 22 July 2024 to Monday 16 September 2024 for a period of eight weeks, and the Council is keen to hear your views about the document and the changes proposed.

A drop-in event will also be held in Phoenix House, on Tuesday, 23 July 2024 from 2pm until 5pm. Officers will be present to help answer any questions you may have about the document, and the future management of the Conservation Area, and to record your comments.

Councillor Steve Keable, Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Regeneration said:

“The canal is a real asset to Mid Devon, to those who live here and those who come from miles around to enjoy its beauty. We know, therefore, it’s important we have a robust plan to protect the area and preserve its unique setting and we want the public to be part of that plan.”

All comments received within the consultation period will be carefully considered to help us to finalise the Conservation Area and Management Plan before it is adopted by the Council. Once adopted, the Conservation Area and Management Plan will be used in the process of determining planning applications and for implementing management proposals.

Any comments must be received by Monday, 16 September 2024. Further information about the Conservation Area and Management Plan, including the consultation document, can be found on the Council's website.

Comments can be sent in through a number of ways:

• In person at the event on the 23rd July
• By email to: planningconsultations@middevon.gov.uk
• By post to: Forward Planning, Phoenix House, Phoenix Lane, Tiverton, Devon EX16 6PP