Visit by Victorian Society
What's so special about Nottingham?
Wollaton Hall Conservation Plan
Clifton Hall conversion to apartments
Colwick Hall awaiting rescue
Watson Fothergill in Thurland Street
Watson Fothergill in George Street
Nottingham's Parks
Highfields Park
As we reach the end of the year, your Environment Committee continues to work to protect the architectural, historic and cultural (in its widest sense) heritage of the city and to encourage and advance new developments and endeavours which will enhance the life of the city and move it forward
Among comments made recently about Nottingham was that by a visiting Victorian Society officer who felt that the city 'has largely kept its grain' - its architectural character; this is a phrase which should be kept in mind in the coming months as we look at projects as the East Side Masterplan, the Waterside development and the introduction of large new buildings at sensitive sites. Move forward, but do not lose the distinctive 'grain' of the city.
The characteristics and unique features of Nottingham were also the topic for discussion at a recent seminar where representatives from local government, commerce and other organisations endeavoured to identify what was special about Nottingham. It would be interesting to have the views of Civic Society members regarding the city's most (and least) appealing features and those most worth preserving: let us know what you think.
The Environment Committee continues to have concerns and ask questions regarding some of the city's prominent historic buildings and sites:
Wollaton Hall has recently been the subject of intensive study in the preparation of a Conservation Plan. a process in which the Society has been represented. We are, however, concerned about the future use of the Hall and its related Museum services.
Clifton Hall is now the subject of plans for re-use and conversion to apartments, with the addition of a new wing and a small new housing development in the grounds (replacing the modem teaching blocks). Consultation on the designs is currently taking place.
Colwick Hall continues to be a cause for concern and we would be delighted and relieved to see a rescue plan and re-use being found for this important building: perhaps the riverside regeneration plans will bring new hope for its future.
The Thurland Street Bank, Watson Fothergill's 'town hall' style prestige building is rightly cherished by all of us both for its imposing exterior and for its splendid High Victorian banking hall. A watchful eye needs to be kept on this fine building and any plans for its future, though we hope that a sympathetic and imaginative re-use may be found before too long.
On the subject of re-use of a Fothergill building, I am sure that all members of the Society are delighted to see that the 'gem of George Street', Fothergill's office, has found a new use as a contemporary art gallery and saleroom. We must express our congratulations and gratitude to the new owners for their enterprise and imagination.
Another current cause for celebration is the re-awakening of interest in our public parks and the related investment of effort and funding in restoring these to their former attractiveness and accessibility. Members will recall the restoration of the Victoria Embankment Lily Pond to which the Society contributed. This has now been followed by a contribution towards specially designed benches for the Arboretum, our contribution to this major restoration project. Incidentally, the Arboretum's 150th Anniversary will be celebrated next May, a weekend celebration is planned for 11 and 12 May to take place in the park, organised by the City Council so watch out for notices.
Highfields Park has also been undergoing a renaissance, with the new D.H. Lawrence Pavilion, the restored MV Maid Marian and, more recently, the reinstated lakeside path, while consultations are now being undertaken in relation to the future conservation and use of Newstead Abbey and its park.
We all hope that once the restoration work is completed on Nottingham's very varied and well-loved parks more people will be drawn into them and that a high level of warden provision and maintenance will be provided to ensure the protection of the parks and the enjoyment of their users.
Hilary Silvester
Vice Chair/Environment Secretary
December 2001
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