Protecting historic charm of downland village
December 20, 2021
Efforts to protect the heritage and character of a downland village have been strengthened by the adoption of a new conservation plan.
Following an eight-week public consultation, the Kingston Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plan was adopted by the Authority’s Planning Committee.
Kingston-near-Lewes is an attractive village about two miles south of Lewes in the Ouse Valley and at the edge of the South Downs chalk ridge.
The Kingston Conservation Area derives its significance from its survival as a typical downland village, including 23 listed buildings, many comprising a materials palette typical of the South Downs.
The report notes that there has been some erosion of the historic layout of the village since the 1960s due to modern development. Rural character has also been affected, including the loss of flint walls.
The adopted Management Plan seeks an improvement in the quality of new development and protection of the Conservation Area from further infilling development. It also seeks to improve management of trees and greater focus on biodiversity in the Conservation Area.
There is a long-term aim for enhancements, including works at the junction of The Street and Ashcombe Lane to create an entry point to the Conservation Area that is visually attractive and which reduces traffic speeds and improves pedestrian safety.
Conservation Officer David Boyson said: “Kingston was first designated as a Conservation Area by Lewes District Council in 1972 and this appraisal has been an extremely worthwhile process to appraise the current built environment and what more needs to be done to conserve its special character going forward. I’d like to thank everyone that contributed to this management plan. It really is a blueprint for all parties who undertake any works that might affect the character of this very charming Conservation Area.”