Foreword
Much of the distinct character and appearance of the South Hams derives from its rich and varied stock of historic buildings. They are an irreplaceable record which contribute to out understanding of both the present and the past. There are approximately 3,700 listed buildings in the District.
So that we do not compromise the quality of life for future generations, we need to take steps now to prevent the best buildings from being lost. Raising public awareness and involving people in the historic and natural environment is an important part of this process. Over £210m per year is brought into the District through tourism, which is partly dependent upon an attractive and high quality environment, including our historic heritage.
Finding new uses for redundant or non viable historic buildings results not only in a visual benefit by breathing new life into them, but also can bring positive benefits to the local economy. There are many examples of regeneration through conservation in the South Hams from which important lessons can be learnt.
Introduction
The South Hams Register of Buildings at Risk gives information on Grade I, II* and II listed buildings in the District that are know to be "at risk" in some way.
The Register is not an end in itself. It is intended to focus attention on neglected historic buildings and be a working document for the local authority. It helps to define the scale of the problem in the District and to prioritise those buildings considered to be most at risk.
Key to Categories
The Building Categories are as follows:
- Properties in use (including conversions)
- Properties adaptable to alternative use (subject to necessary permissions, consents and regulations for conversion)
- Structures without any alternative use possibilities (i.e. Chest Tombs, Headstones etc.)
- Ruins
The Risk Categories are as follows:
- Immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss of fabric, no way forward agreed
- Immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss of fabric, way forward agreed but not yet implemented
- Slow decay, no way forward agreed
- Slow decay, way forward agreed but not yet implemented
- Under repair or in fair to good condition, but no obvious user identified, or under threat of vacancy with no obvious new owner
- Repair scheme in progress with end user/owner identified
Important Notes
The inclusion of a building on this Register does not necessarily imply that it is for sale.
Inclusion of a building implies no criticism of the owners, many are actively seeking ways to secure the building's future.
Suggested alternative uses for the buildings are always subject to the grant of the necessary permissions, consents and regulations.
Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that the information in the Register is accurate, some errors are inevitable as the situation is constantly changing. The Council welcomes information and corrections to enable continuing improvement to this Register.
Annexe
Notes on Best Practice
Useful Addresses
This Register has been compiled by South Hams District Council from available information held on Listed Buildings in the District.
Comments on the Register, suggestions for buildings to be included and evidence to show a building should be excluded should be addressed to:
Conservation and Design
South Hams District Council
Follaton House
Plymouth Road
Totnes
TQ9 5NE
