Chester Farm Conservation Statement
Client: Northamptonshire County Council

A Conservation Statement to assist the County Council in finding a new use for the site without losing its unique qualities. Chester Farm is a unique cultural asset of both regional and national importance. It encapsulates over 2000 years of Northamptonshire’s past in its 34 hectares of farm and former parkland. Northamptonshire County Council, as owner, has undertaken the challenge of finding a way forward for the site, which is no longer viable as a farm in its own right. The key aim is to provide a sustainable future for the site which conserves its historic character and improves public accessibility and enjoyment for all.

It is vital that any decision regarding the future use and development of Chester Farm should be based on a sound understanding of the site and what it is that makes it significant. This Conservation Statement describes the site’s various archaeological, historic and natural environment features and periods of development from prehistoric to modern times. It summarises where we need to know more in order to enhance understanding and care of the site. It describes the value attached to the site by members of the public and other stakeholders. The regulatory and planning context is explained. The Statement of Significance forms a key section, providing an assessment of what it is that makes the site so important. Following this, the potential threats to and vulnerabilities of Chester Farm are highlighted together with some draft outline policies to help inform the way forward.

To download a PDF of the full statement, click here...