A HASLEMERE borough councillor has this week been selected to promote good architectural design in Waverley. Councillor Steve Renshaw, who represents Haslemere East and Grayswood, was named as the borough's new 'Heritage and Design Champion'. Mr Renshaw said: "The role is not only about ensuring that our existing heritage is protected but also to make sure that Waverley, as the local planning authority, provides a vision for how building developments can be improved in the future. "In particular, this can be done through managing the planning, conservation and sustainability of our streets and green spaces. "This vision needs to be embedded in the thinking and activities of the council and then delivered in a co-ordinated manner." Mr Renshaw was chosen for the combined role of Heritage and Design Champion because of his long-standing interest in both building design and construction. He aims to make sure good design is incorporated as part of the planning process, right from the start of new building developments. He went on to say: "Waverley is a very attractive borough and needs to retain its character and keep the quality of design of its buildings at a high standard. "The key to good development is making sure that we are all thinking about good design and take responsibility right from the beginning of the process, through consideration of planning applications, to their implementation. "This applies not only to an individual applying for an extension to his house but, in particular, to architects and property developers who need to make sure that their designs are suitable for the areas for which they are intended. "The council, then, has two areas of responsibility. The first is that within planning policy, the planning guidelines are often subjective in their interpretation. "When considering the merits of an application – whether large or small – Waverley needs to ensure that both the quality of the design and its sustainability are evaluated. "Secondly, Waverley must ensure that developments are completed according the approved applications. "It's an ongoing process and only by getting everyone working towards the same objective will it be successful."
