CLG showcases Edinburgh & LPA conservation in vision for world class places

CLG has set out a vision for world class places with a new strategy on improving quality of place. Edinburgh is the first case study, as it ‘ remains a model of sustainable urban design…  Although designed as a residential suburb, generous sized rooms and robust construction techniques have allowed many homes to be converted into shops, offices, studios and other uses, creating a sustainable mixed use neighbourhood. The pedestrian-friendly streets, a good range of services and amenities and large windows looking out over the streets help create a sense of safety and community…’
Action 3.2 says: ‘Developing new planning policy on the historic environment: Existing planning policy guidance already lays out the need for planning authorities to ensure that the historic environment is conserved and, where appropriate, enhanced (PPG15 and PPG16). It has little to say, however, about the benefits of viewing heritage as an asset that can attract investment, encourage regeneration or promote sustainability. CLG is therefore working with DCMS and English Heritage to develop a new planning policy statement which revises and refines existing planning policy.  This will emphasise the positive contribution of heritage assets to local character and sense of place and the importance, wherever possible, of keeping them in viable uses that are consistent with their conservation.’
http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/planningandbuilding/
worldclassplaces
http://www.cabe.org.uk/news/vision-for-world-class-places