The Society has been keen to increase its oversight of planning applications that affect listed buildings and conservation areas on both sides of the river, given some recent poor developments. However, it is important that the Society is not simply an objector to any and all change but will support sympathetic developments, the appropriate re-use of existing buildings, and the use of traditional materials. At the same time, it is important that developments are properly approved in advance. As a result the Executive Committee agreed to re-establish a Planning & Development Subcommittee which has begun to review relevant applications and where considered appropriate lodge comments in support or objections on the NCC planning website. Initial membership is small but we would like to expand this group: so if you feel you would like to contribute to the Society in this way, and particularly if you have experience in planning or historic buildings, please contact Michael Gallico, the Subcommittee’s Chairman (gallico2010@btinternet.com)
