Purpose

Presented is the Boston Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plan for Adoption.

Decision

Resolved:

That the adoption of the Boston Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plan, attached within Appendix 1, including the revised Conservation Area boundary, attached within Appendix 2, be approved.

Reasons for the decision

·       The document demonstrates the Council’s commitment to protect and enhance the built environment of the Borough.

·       It can be used as evidence in future Local Plan Plans and aims to support enhancement of our historic areas in line with our statutory duties through The Planning (Listed Building and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 and in line with the National Planning Policy Framework and National Planning Policy Guidance.

·       Once adopted the Boston Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plan can be used to support and inform future planning decisions in the area, as a material planning consideration.

·       The document can be used to guide building owners, developers, investors, planning applicants, agents and consultants in making informed decisions while considering alterations, additions or demolition of heritage assets.

·       The document shows why heritage should form a huge part of our future vision of our places and recognises that there are opportunities to compliment and capitalise on existing momentum and processes to deliver investment by championing heritage in our Town Centre.

·       Consultation took place from November 2025 through to February 2026. It included in person events, an online questionnaire, writing to addresses affected by conservation area boundary changes, press and site notices. Overwhelmingly responses supported the need to preserve our shared heritage, and consultation has been a great opportunity to increase awareness and public participation in heritage.

·       Formal approvals are necessary for the resulting documents to carry weight in the planning process.

Alternative options considered

·       Not to adopt and keep the conservation area boundary as it is now.

·       To recommend a different boundary, not taking public consultation responses on board and going against specialist advice.