Future is safer for historic buildings

10:29am Friday 13th January 2006

PLANS to introduce a conservation area which would help protect three historic buildings in Twickenham have been welcomed by campaigners.

The old electricity works at the end of Warrick Road, which are buildings of townscape merit (BTM), are threatened with partial demolition if plans to develop the site are approved.

But the determination of residents to protect buildings that come from Twickenham's Victorian industrial past received a boost when it was announced that Richmond upon Thames Council's cabinet would consider recommendations to designate it conservation area.

Cathy Cooper, spokeswoman for the Talbot Road Action committee, which is campaigning to save the buildings, said: "I am overwhelmed by this recommendation and if it goes through then this area will get the prestige that it deserves.

"The next step for residents is to see what the developers come back with. We will also continue looking into the history of the area."

At a public meeting on Monday, more than 50 residents from Talbot, Hamilton and Warwick Roads, Twickenham's MP Dr Vincent Cable, trustees of the Environment Trust of Richmond upon Thames, the Friends of Twickenham Green and an independent architect gathered to discuss how to oppose the application.

As well as concerns about the future of the buildings, they fear the development would dominate and tower over neighbouring properties and the area would see an increase in traffic.

Currently the Environment Trust is seeking a listing for the buildings through English Heritage.

The recommendation to be considered by cabinet is for a Hamilton Road conservation area including numbers 1-66 of Hamilton Road, 1-57 of Warwick Road, Twickenham electricity substation in Warwick Road and 18-34 Edwin Road.

The cabinet report states: "Number 37 Hamilton road is recognised as a remarkable industrial building group of local architectural and historic interest.

"This designation will ensure that the future of all or part of the BTM can be properly considered in the determination of any proposals for this site.

"The designation of this area as a conservation area would award the council with additional specialised planning powers."

Dr Cable, who is supporting the residents, said: "I hope the council will listen to the residents who are not merely arguing on their own behalf against the damaging effects of over development, but are trying to preserve a key piece of our local heritage. I understand that the council is considering creating a Conservation Area and that would give welcome protection."

The recommendation will be considered on Monday January 16.