The historic core of a Weald village is in pretty good shape, a conservation area appraisal has noted.

Maidstone council planners have assessed the Staplehurst Conservation Area and concluded that the main threat to its character has come not from intrusive new build properties, but rather from the cumulative effect of changes to existing buildings, such as replacement uPVC windows, and re-roofing in inappropriate materials.

The Conservation Area was first designated in 1987 and the appraisal considered whether it needed to be expanded – perhaps to include Iden Manor, or whether some areas should be excluded – Crowther Close was mentioned as making no positive contribution. But in the end the appraisal considered the boundaries were best left as they are.

However, the appraisal is currently out to public consultation, and residents can give their own views on whether any boundary changes are desirable.

Being in a Conservation Area does not prohibit development entirely, but does require that any development “preserve and enhance” the character of the area.

The council has examined all the buildings in the designated area and has rated them as as either “essential” (Vine House, Green Court, The King’s Head Hotel), or making a “positive” contribution (The Old Rectory, the United Reformed Church and The Manse).

It found no buildings were “negative” which might have meant they should be demolished.

Being in a Conservation Area does bring some automatic restriction: no building can be demolished without first obtaining consent; extensions of over 50 cubic metres require consent even if the property is not listed; exterior cladding requires consent as do additions or alterations to the roof, and satellite antennae.

The council is holding a drop-in session on the appraisal on Thursday, February 22, at the Staplehurst Community Centre, from 2pm to 7pm. All welcome.

Cllr Paul Cooper, cabinet member for planning, said: “We welcome views from everyone, whether they live in Staplehurst or not, as the overall look and feel of the borough affects everyone who lives, works or visits here.

“Conservation Areas help us to protect and enhance the special character of the borough, making sure there is high-quality building and good development.”

Maidstone has 41 Conservation Areas in total.

You can view the appraisal here and give your views here.

The deadline for responses is March 17.