The Prince of Wales has called for the introduction of a development time limit covering historic properties. The Prince believes a change in the law would force owners to take a responsible and sensitive approach to redevelopment, and that those who neglect historic buildings should be compelled to forfeit them.
He said the proposal would prevent historic properties falling into dereliction, and suggested granting owners a timeframe of two to three years in which to redevelop the property.
Those that failed to do so would be legally required to surrender the building to the public body which originally owned it or, where this is not the case, transfer it to a charitable trust.
“There is no doubt that the introduction of a set period of time in which to maintain or restore a building can be a key element in making the most of what is left of our heritage,” he said.
The Prince was keen to highlight the value of historic buildings to property developers. He cited figures which show that restored and listed buildings can provide owners with an additional £13,000 per year in, what he described as, a ‘heritage premium.’
As the Prince acknowledged, his remarks come as the government prepares for the latest in a string of property disposals, among which there are likely to be a number of buildings of historic interest.
“Surely this time we could get it right?” he asked hopefully.
Prince Charles made the call at Kenwood House, the newly restored Georgian villa in Hampstead, following a dinner celebrating the centenary of English Heritage attended by Heritage Minister Ed Vaizy.
The Prince is no stranger to controversy involving the built environment, and his latest remarks are unlikely to find a great deal of support among property owners who are frequently frustrated in their attempts to redevelop historic properties by planning policy.
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