Introducing our new monthly column CIVIC MATTERS, by Gill Pawson, chair of the Vale of Evesham Civic Society.
In the edition she introduces the work of the charity that was established in 1972 to stimulate public interest in the Vale of Evesham.
By Gill Pawson
Our aim is to promote high standards of planning and architecture and to encourage the preservation, protection, development and improvement of features of historic or public interest.
In more recent years, our focus has included the promotion of civic pride and the improvement of our town’s public realm.
Vale of Evesham Civic Society (VECS) has more than 100 members and some of these form the committee.
Our group is a member of the national body Civic Voice, so we are not alone in fighting for improvements to our built heritage and indeed see that many other towns across the country face the same challenges.
Many years ago, in recognition of the importance of Evesham’s historic buildings, Wychavon District Council designated much of the town centre a conservation area.
It covers High Street, Vine Street, Market Square, Merstow Green, Bridge Street, Port Street and Church Street, with elements of the side and back streets also included.
A conservation area protects the character of a defined district in all its aspects and to enable this, there are additional planning controls that apply to both domestic and commercial properties.
It is this area that VECS takes the greatest interest in. We are working to encourage shop owners to change their shop signage so that they reflect the character of the area, using heritage colours and lettering.
We do not forget however, that we have a responsibility to the wider heritage of the Vale and often make representations about planning proposals that affect our surrounding villages and countryside.
We recognise the importance of working with others in seeking to improve our town.
Over the last few years, we have worked with both Evesham Town Council and Evesham Place Board to improve the community facilities and appearance of the public realm.
This has led to cleaned and repaired bus shelters and noticeboards, new benches, shop front improvements and much else besides.
Finally, a note on the Riverside Shopping Centre. We are hugely relieved that at last there may be good news on the horizon.
Wychavon District Council expects to make a formal announcement in October about the future of this now nearly derelict area.
We meet monthly at Ecgwins Club, on High Street so why not join us and let us have your views on Evesham. Our next meeting is on October 14 at 7.30pm.
Visit valeofeveshamcivicsociety.org.uk for details.
