Shropshire Star

English Heritage joins Oswestry hillfort fight

English Heritage has joined campaigners in calling for Oswestry's hillfort to be protected from development.

Published
Oswestry’s Iron Age hillfort is widely regarded as one of the most significant landmarks of its kind in Europe

The charity has said it is against proposals drawn up by Shropshire Council to earmark land at the foot of the hillfort for housing.

It made its comments in response to a request by the council for its views on proposed sites for housing around the town.

Amanda Smith, English Heritage's historic environment planning advisor for the West Midlands, said because of the national historic significance of the Iron Age hillfort, the charity could not support the proposals.

"English Heritage continues to have concerns at the potential impacts of the proposed development of the significance of the hillfort and as such we do not support the proposed site as set out by Shropshire Council," she said.

"Great weight should be given to the conservation of designated heritage assets and any harm or loss of significance requires clear and convincing justification. We therefore recommend that the site is not taken forward."

It had previously expressed its concerns at the potential impact of any development near the hillfort and has now formally registered its opposition to the proposals.

In its official response, it notes the importance of the hillfort to the history of the area and its position as one of the largest and more impressive hillforts in England.

Ms Smith said: "Today the site is of great national importance, helping to define our national story and identity.

"Old Oswestry Hillfort is designated as a scheduled monument in recognition of its national importance.

"One of the core planning principles of that heritage assets should be conserved in a manner appropriate to their significance, so that they can be enjoyed for their contribution to the quality of like of this and future generations. The significance of a heritage asset derives not only from its physical presence but also from its setting."

The charity has also said it would have concerns about proposals to use land at Oldport Farm in Gobowen Road for housing, as it is also very close to the hillfort.

However, it acknowledged that if the farming operations ceased there would be a case for turning the redundant farm buildings into housing.

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