There has been much public debate over the painting of the frontage of 49 Fore Street a deep shade of royal blue.
Colour choices are subjective and strong views have been expressed within the community on the shades of blue, yellow, pink and even black, which can be seen within the Town.
But, the role of policy makers, such as Cornwall Council as Planning Authority or St Ives Town Council, is to try to ensure that, whatever the colour, the approach followed is lawful and fair for everyone. As 49 Fore Street is within the Conservation Area (and is part of a listed building), making changes including repainting or new signage need planning and listed building consents, which the owner hasn’t yet obtained.
A planning application gives an opportunity for wider public debate about whether a particular paint colour has a detrimental impact on the building or conservation area or not.
Councillor Johnnie Wells, Mayor of St Ives commented:
“Town Councillors have met with the new tenant and had a very positive dialogue. As a designer, their intention was to put their own creative stamp on the frontage, but they are also keen to respond positively to local concern and views. As a result, they have confirmed that they will be repainting the frontage white as soon as dry weather permits and no later than early March. Now that the planning constraints on this area of St Ives are more fully understood, any future changes will be subject to a planning approval”.
Councillor Ken Messenger, Chair of the Planning Committee also commented:
“The Town Council is raising the issues with Cornwall Council’s Heritage Environment team to explore whether more advice and guidance can be developed for property owners. In the meantime, owners within the conservation area are urged to seek early advice before making changes and picking up a paint brush”.
The Cornwall Council and St Ives Town Councillor, Andrew Mitchell concluded that:
“The Council welcomes the positive engagement and thanks the new tenant of 49 Fore Street for working with us on an amicable solution”.
