General Report For

HOLYWOOD CONSERVATION GROUP NEWSLETTER 39 Summer 2011

Built Heritage at Risk Northern Ireland (BHARNI) The BHARNI project began in 1993 as a partnership between the Northern Ireland Environment Agency and the Ulster Architectural Heritage Society, the former was then known as the Environment and Heritage Service. The aim is to highlight the vulnerability of our built heritage and act as a catalyst for re- use and conservation.

The BHARNI currently has over 450 structures deemed at risk. These are buildings and monuments that are deemed to be at risk for a variety of reasons ranging from threat of ownership to vandalism and negligence. In Holywood, and the surrounding area, there are five such historic structures which for a variety of reasons find themselves languishing on the register. From 1 Stewarts Place which is in private ownership to the gate lodge at Craigowen, owned by the Roads Service and the windmill stump which is inside the conservation area, these vary greatly in condition and size but each have their own unique architectural interest.

Whilst there are currently considerable financial obstacles for the enlightened private owner or developer to take on one of these buildings and restore it to its former glory, it is not to say that all hope is lost. Now more than ever is the time for people from the local community, charities and the council to take ownership of their local landmarks. The potential for restoration to act as a catalyst for tangible skills training is also something not to be overlooked.

At the same time as providing training and jobs in the local economy the restored building can be placed back into the heart of the community that ultimately it belongs to, safe for future generations to enjoy. This in turn adds another layer to the story strengthening and enhancing the sense of place that undoubtedly exists inside the Holywood Conservation Area.

If you see the buildings in Holywood that are on the BHARNI register as eyesores perhaps you should stop and take a fresh look. Perhaps you should look at the potential that is locked up inside them, a potential to provide something for the local community. Indeed with a little drive and vision you could be the ‘somebody’ to take on one of these projects and help to save a building at risk. [Ed – our thanks to Jody Wylie of UAHS who contributed this article. We are wondering if perhaps NDBC might take on responsibility?] Cultra Station This listed building is on the BHARNI register and is now back on the market, having been acquired by a private developer a few years ago who destroyed surrounding mature trees and now has planning approval for development. It is the hope of HCG (and others) that Cultra Station is brought back into public ownership where this unique 1856 Charles Lanyon designed building can be properly refurbished, maintained and put to good use. Use includes potential for tourism. HCG has written to various agencies, including the Ulster Transport and Folk Museum, raising interest.

The old guard - painting! Pictured right, committee members caught recently painting tree guards in Holywood. From left to right - Tony Merrick, Jenny Chester-Williams, Deirdre Thomas and Nick Wright. Our special thanks to John Stewart, Rene Kyle and other committee members who also helped.

Annual General Meeting Our well attended AGM was held in the Old School on 30th March 2011. All the incumbent committee members were duly re-elected, except for Larry Thompson who resigned his position as Director to pursue politics. Larry has made a huge contribution to both HCG and Holywood over several years and we are most grateful to him and wish him well. Our guest speaker at the AGM was Planning Consultant Peter Fleming who gave an entertaining talk on the wider aspects of planning which was very well received. This was followed by much discussion over a glass of wine.

The re-elected directors are – Nick Wright(Chair); John Moore (Vice-Chair + Treasurer); Philippa Crone (Minutes sec); Mike Wilson(Membership Sec); George Brown(Company Sec); Jenny Chester-Williams; Jane McClure; Tony Merrick; Vincent Murray; and Deirdre Thomas.

Other Items of Interest NIEA De-listing proposals (incl Johnny the Jig) - still to reach a decision. 16-18 Victoria Rd – ongoing, awaiting Landscape Architect Branch report. King John’s Highway - NDBC are pursuing legal action. Marino Filling Station – ongoing. Latest amendment changes little. 1 Stewarts Place – with others, HCG pressed NIEA to pursue maintenance order or purchase. Purchase option still being considered by NIEA. Recent work by owner on exterior was minimal and well short of requirement. Shop Signs – several new signs have appeared which are being addressed by Planning Service. We applaud new solicitor’s sign, but not the Factory Shop.

CONTACT: Nick Wright (Chair) 35 Victoria Road, Holywood BT18 9BD Tel: 9042 8928, or Mike Wilson (Membership Secretary) Summerseat, 5 Marino Station Road, Holywood. BT18 0AH [email protected] Email: [email protected] Company limited by guarantee - Registration No: NI44991 Charity No: XR64327