137 High Street Harwich Essex CO12 3AX

1. 1.The Lower Dovercourt Conservation Area Character Appraisal and Management Plan 2024 states that several shopfronts within the locale area have retained their historic character with pilasters, tiles, entrance porches and cornicing being prominent and well documented features which add to how the character and appearance of the Conservation Area is perceived The proposal seeks permission to retain the existing aluminium shopfront following the removal of the previous timber shopfront. The shopfront consists of slim profile glazing bars finished in dark grey that expand across the front of the premises in a straight line. The shopfront is of a poor design appearing stark and bland through the use of modern and prominent materials. The main entrance and glazing bars lack appropriate detailing for their location whilst the removal of the recessed entrance appears incongruous with the character of the other shopfronts. Overall the proposals inappropriate design, the use of non-traditional materials and the removal of key historic features is considered to pose significant and detrimental visual harm to the character and appearance of the Conservation Area. This harm is considered to be less than substantial harm, and while these are some benefits to the public, these benefits do not outweigh the detrimental harm the proposal will have upon the Conservation Area. The proposal is therefore contrary to the provisions of paragraphs 212 and 215 of the National Planning Policy Framework (2024) and TDLP policies SPL3 and PPL9.

From the council's decision notice.

Postcode

CO12 3AX

Date validated

6 January 2026