Keeping Sutton Special - Council to agree new Area of Special Local Character

The Hallmead Farm Estate Area of Special Local Character (ASLC) has been prepared by residents in consultation with the Council. ASLCs cover areas which have a distinctive character locally that the Council and residents wish to maintain, but which do not meet the criteria for designation as a conservation area. 

The area is located around Sutton Common railway station. It is predominantly residential and characterised by two-storey dwellings in a “country-cottage” style. Design features include semi-hexagonal bay windows with pitched roofs, symmetrical front elevations, and entrances at the side covered by a canopy. 

The proposal is the latest example of the Council’s commitment to partnership working with community groups in the borough. Over the last three years, the Council has agreed appraisals for the Burton Estates, Sutton Farm Estate and the Park Hill Road areas of special local character.

Councillors approved the latest ASLC at the Sutton’s Housing, Economy & Business Committee meeting on 8 March. This additionally means that the character appraisal will be a “material consideration” in deciding any planning applications in the designated area. 

If the Council decided to not classify the area as an ASLC, there is a risk that the specific qualities and design features at the Hallmead Estate would be lost over time. This would have a detrimental effect on the built environment in Sutton. 

Councillor Jayne McCoy, Chair of Sutton Council’s Housing, Economy & Business Committee, said:

“We know how much our residents value the borough’s heritage and want to protect it for future generations. 

“Designating the Hallmead Farm Estate the fourth new Area of Special Local Character in Sutton means that residents will know the area they live in deserves particular recognition. 

“This proposal will help ensure that when residents propose changes to their homes, they will protect and enhance the character of the area. This is how we keep Sutton the special and unique place that residents cherish so much.” 

Naomi Kenny and Heather Vernon, who led the resident group in obtaining the designation, said:

"We are delighted that the Hallmead Farm Estate has been designated as a new Area of Special Local Character.

"Working collaboratively with the Council, we have managed to protect this unique and historic area which means so much to many of us.

"Thank you to everyone who played their part in making this happen and preserving the rich heritage of the area".