Call for urgent review of town's conservation area

Town councillors have raised concerns about Daventry town centre

There are calls for an urgent review of a town centre's conservation area over claims unsuitable development has resulted in the deterioration of its historic High Street.

Daventry Town Council (DTC) has written to West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) to express concerns that planning and conservation guidelines are not being followed by some retail and commercial premises.

Councillor Lynne Taylor, who raised the issue at a town council meeting last week, said the town had been "forgotten" by WNC's planning department.

Mark Arnull, the leader of Reform UK-controlled WNC said the authority was "committed to delivering positive plans for towns across the area".

Policies and guidance are in place to prevent development from harming the character of the High Street and Sheaf Street, which are supposed to be protected due to their special architectural and historic interest.

However, DTC has claimed these standards are slipping and a lack of enforcement has had a visible impact on the streets, "causing irreparable damage" to the historic buildings and the overall character of the town centre.

Councillor Taylor told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: "It's our heritage that we're talking about - we want to stop it getting worse.

"It's just sad for our town because [the conservation area] should be a driving point for people to come here."

'Value recognised'

DTC has asked WNC's planning department to review the condition of High Street and Sheaf Street, while the West Northamptonshire Conservation Officer has also been invited to meet with DTC representatives.

WNC leader Arnull said: "Over the coming months, we will be engaging with local stakeholders to explore opportunities for town centre regeneration and wider town projects.

"We recognise the value of Daventry's heritage and the pride its community holds in the town's identity.

"Daventry Town Council raised this issue with members of the council at their last meeting on Monday, 28 July, and we are happy to discuss in more detail and ensure they're considered and reflected in future plans for the town."