Ayr Central Conservation Area Character Appraisal - South Ayrshire ...

Ayr Central Conservation Area Character Appraisal
Part One
PART ONE – HISTORY, CHARACTER & APPEARANCE
INTRODUCTION
Conservation Areas
Conservation areas are ‘areas of special architectural or historic interest, the character of
which it is desirable to preserve or enhance’, designated by planning authorities as required
by Section 61 of the Planning (Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas)(Scotland) Act 1997.
South Ayrshire Council currently has 21 designated conservation areas, varying in character
from the urban centres and residential suburbs to rural villages
What does Conservation Area Status Mean?
The designation places a duty on planning authorities to draw up proposals from time to
time for the preservation or enhancement of the area, to consider the effect of planning
applications on the character or appearance of the area, and to apply special controls within
the area. The conservation area controls relate to:
• Demolition of buildings
• Removal of, or work to, trees
• Small house extensions, roof alterations, stone cleaning or painting of the exterior,
provision of hard surfaces, and
• Satellite dishes
Further specific controls, known as ‘Article 4’ and ‘Control of Advertisements’ Directions,
extend the requirement for planning permission for certain types of work in Ayr Central
Conservation Area. Details of the Article 4 and Control of Advertisements Directions are set
out on page 66.
Character Appraisals
Each conservation area has its own unique character and appearance. The purpose of a
Character Appraisal is to identify the key elements that contribute to the special historic or
architectural character of the area. Clear identification of these elements allows measures
for their preservation or enhancement to be prioritised.
It is intended that the history of development, townscape analysis and character assessment
set out in the Character Appraisal will guide owners, occupiers, the planning authority,
and other stakeholders in the ongoing management of the area. The Appraisal identifies
opportunities and priorities for enhancement, and sets out the policy framework for the
determination of development proposals.
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