Draft Torphichen Conservation Area Appraisal (2023)
Torphichen is one of 10 conservation areas in West Lothian. It was designated in 1976 and is centred on the Torphichen Preceptory, a Scheduled Monument of national importance, and it includes a number of listed buildings. It also embraces the surrounding village and a broad sweep of hills to the east which contributes to its distinctive setting. Recognising that the designation was made some time ago the Council has determined that a review is now in order and a draft Conservation Area Appraisal (CAA) has been prepared.
NB: This consultation is closed.
Preparation of the draft Torphichen Conservation Area Appraisal (CAA) complies with the Planning (Listed buildings and conservation areas) (Scotland) Act 1997, Scottish Planning Policy (SPP) 2014 and other supporting documents such as PAN 71.
The CAA has been prepared with regard to LDP policies DES 1, ENV 24, ENV 25, and ENV 28 which collectively seek to ensure that new development in the Conservation Area causes no detriment to the character and fabric of the historic environment.
The appraisal is intended to raise awareness of the area's special qualities within local communities. It provides an agreed basis of understanding of what makes an area special and which in turn creates an understanding, informs and provides the context in which decisions can be made on proposals which may affect that character.
The appraisal also provides an opportunity to reconsider conservation area boundaries and to identify whether there is justification for making changes to them.
At this time, officers of the council are proposing modest changes to the conservation area boundary to exclude some of the areas it currently embraces as they are considered to be of little historical, cultural or architectural significance and/or make an inconsequential contribution to it's setting.
When approved, the CAA will be a material consideration which the council will have regard to when it considers applications for planning permission, and, where appropriate, for listed building consent.
Should you have any questions regarding the CAA please do not hesitate to contact the Development Planning and Environment team, either by email at DPgeneral@westlothian.gov.uk or by post at West Lothian Council, Development Planning & Environment, Civic Centre, Howden South Road, Livingston EH54 6FF.
