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Shipbourne Design Statement Regional differences identify where we are as we travel
about the countryside. These differences, previously apparent in the
bricks and stone used for building or in the native plants of the area,
are becoming harder to detect. Development in towns, suburbs and villages
are increasingly uniform in style. The differences that reflect our
natural regional variations are fast disappearing. When we lose these, we
lose the richness and diversity of our countryside.
Change is a healthy and essential ingredient for a
thriving rural community; it should be encouraged and celebrated. However
there are negative aspects of change that occur and even minor ones can
erode rural character and diversity. Communities have to be ready to
manage environmental change for their own and the future generations'
benefit. They must ensure that it is in harmony with the landscape setting
and contributes to the conservation of and, where possible enhances, the
diversity of the local environment and ecology. A Design Statement such as the Shipbourne Design
Statement is important because it enables visual qualities of the
village and local priorities - as defined by the community - to be
considered in the planning processes. The design issues included in the
Statement are of use to individual owners when contemplating or
undertaking any alterations to their property. Likewise, developers and
builders will find the Design Statement a helpful tool. It aims to help
guide change in ways that will enhance, rather than detract from, the
quality of life in the village and its environment and that will
contribute to its conservation. The principles of design that are
incorporated in the Statement aim to encourage good practice and not
stifle innovation and imaginative proposals.
The Shipbourne Design Statement is an informative and quality 33 page booklet illustrated with 72 colour photographs and eight black & white drawings and maps. Pages 20 to 29 form the Supplementary Planning Guidance that was adopted by Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council in February 2002. A copy has been made available to every household in the Village. If you would like an additional copy or have just moved in or are involved in the preparation of plans or specifications and feel a copy may be useful to you, please contact the Parish Clerk. |
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