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THE aims of the Nantwich
Walled Garden Society are set out in the organisation's Constitution dated
June 13, 2004. These are:
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To prevent the development of
housing on the site of the Old Walled Garden off Welsh Row in Nantwich,
which was once part of the gardens of Townsend House;
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To ensure that the Elizabethan
walls of the garden are fully restored and reinstated; and
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To restore the garden in a way
that reflects its history, so that it can be left in perpetuity for the
enjoyment of the residents and visitors to Nantwich.
In order to ensure the
historic walls of the garden are restored and maintained, and that the
area enclosed has a viable and sustainable use compatible with its
historic and statutory status, the Society wishes to work in partnership
with the landowner and their advisors, the local planning authority and
with all other interested parties.
To facilitate these
objectives, the Society considers that, in accordance with the guiding
principles for historic environment conservation set out in Informed
Conservation, published by English Heritage (2001), a clear
understanding of the significance of the walled garden from a range of
viewpoints (e.g. archaeological / historical, economic and social) is
needed. Such a review should be accompanied by an impact assessment of
development options (including possible recreational, horticultural and
educational uses) and the mitigation measures that may be required. The
production of this review and assessment would provide a firm basis for
the formulation of a conservation management plan, where proposals and
actions for the management of the site can be specified.
The responsibility for
carrying out this review and assessment should lie with the landowner and
their advisors, but working in consultation with the local planning
authority, Nantwich Walled Garden Society and other interested
organisations, and that it should be undertaken speedily and without
delay.
The Society anticipates
being very actively involved in bringing this project to fruition.
Together we can find a suitable use for the land and secure the long-term
preservation of this historic asset for the people of
Nantwich. | 