<p> MATTINGLEY Mrs G ISSUE 013</p><p>Stockers House, Broad Street, Somerton, Somerset. TA11 7NH.</p><p>Copy of letter to SSDC I write to the Core Strategy Planning Committee as a member of the community of Somerton, regarding the heart of Somerton the Ancient Capital of Wessex (The Conservation Area). As you will be aware, the regeneration of this area is of the highest priority, as described in your paragraph below. Historic Heritage Conservation The historic environment is an essential part of South Somerset's rich cultural heritage, contributing to the sense of identity and quality of life in the district, the local economy and the well-being of our residents and visitors. Whether in the form of individual buildings, archaeological sites, historic market towns or landscapes, the conservation of this heritage and sustaining it for the benefit of future generations is an important aspect of the role the Council plays on behalf of the community and as the local planning authority. The components of the historic environment are known as 'Heritage Assets'. These are buildings, monuments, sites, areas or landscapes positively identified as having a degree of significance meriting consideration in planning decisions. The following categories of nationally designated heritage assets are identified for protection: Planning for the Historic Environment To a large degree the management of the historic heritage is carried out through the planning service. Legislation, the government's national policies and the Local Development Framework impose a series of measures for the recognition, protection and conservation of the various heritage assets and the local planning authority's responsibility is to ensure that these measures are implemented. National policy is set out in the National Planning Policy Framework. (Red comes from your web site) I believe this key aspect was seriously neglected when the Appeal for a ‘Care Home’ off West Street was given planning permission. At the time, you would have been aware of one ‘Care home’ (Wessex House) planned, already very close to that area, and another a few hundred yards away. As a result of these planning decisions, Somerton’s historic centre is rapidly becoming a place for people to come to die. It will not attract tourists and it will discourage young people from coming to live here or even starting a business. I visit people in care homes and know the reality is that there will be few visitors for those unfortunate enough to be in these care homes. The current message from on high that future Government policy will be to keep these patients in their own homes. At the appeal for the ‘Care Home’ off West Street, we were told that it was a very acceptable area for such a home. The North pavement of West Street fully wide enough for 2 wheel chairs to pass safely! It is often necessary when 2 pedestrians try to pass on the pavement one person needs to step off, especially if the other is using a stick or Zimmer frame. The redundant area behind and to the South of West street had a plan agreed earlier, which was far more desirable, for 27x2 bed apartments, (preferable to have these open to all age groups) and an underground car park, which satisfied our community. This plan was updated and is still relevant. Added 9.4.2013; It has recently been suggested to me that Flats would be preferable, with a public space for a garden, the last available in this area.) This will be the third Care Home in this area. </p><p>Yours sincerely Mrs M E Mattingley</p>