New Maidenhead Riverside conservation area approved

Maidenhead is set to benefit from a new, extended conservation area along the Thames from north of Boulters Lock to the Fishery Estate.

The extended area includes - and for the first time links - the two existing conservation areas of Maidenhead Bridge and Guards Club Island, and Boulters Lock. The new boundary includes what is considered the most significant remaining elements of Maidenhead's riverside frontage, especially its Victorian and Edwardian riverside villa suburbs.

The move - approved by cabinet last night (Thursday 24 June) - means the character of the area will be preserved as development proposals within the conservation area will be subject to additional planning guidance.

The riverside properties of the Fishery Estate were included after an initial consultation highlighted a strong desire for a larger part of the estate to be in the conservation area, leading to a second consultation with residents in the wider Fisheries area.

Cllr Alison Knight, lead member for planning and development, said: "This move will help to ensure this lovely stretch of the Thames receives greater protection from inappropriate development. It will help preserve and enhance the character and appearance of the area and the historic environment for the benefit of the community as a whole."

The Riverside work is part of an ongoing programme to produce up-to-date appraisals for all 27 conservation areas in the borough, with nine having been adopted since May 2008. The appraisal document can be viewed and downloaded and further information found at www.rbwm.gov.uk

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