ANNESLEY HALL AND OLD CHURCH: Council “working closely” with owners

Concerned Ashfield District Council has vowed to “work closely with the owners to examine the potential for plans to secure the future” of Annesley Hall.
NO-GO ZONE -- Annesley Hall, fenced off this wek.NO-GO ZONE -- Annesley Hall, fenced off this wek.
NO-GO ZONE -- Annesley Hall, fenced off this wek.

Although the Hall and its associated outbuildings are privately owned, the council accepts that the site is “one of the district’s heritage assets”.

“Since the fire at the Hall in May, we have been liaising with the property’s owner and other agencies to identify the best way forward,” said a council statement.

“The dialogue is progressing positively. Tentative discussions are also taking place around sensible development and the positive impact that can have on the attractiveness of the area for tourism and other business.”

The council also disclosed that its private sector enforcement team is involved in the strategy to keep out trespassers and avoid crime at Annesley Hall. Along with the owners and the police, it is even considering issuing a public space protection order, which would also cover alcohol-fuelled anti-social behaviour and dog-control.

“It is planned to undertake a more wide-ranging review of issues across the district within the next 12 months, and this could include very specific interventions in certain locations,” the statement continues.

“In the meantime, the council will continue to work with the police, using the tools and powers currently available to minimise the risk of vandalism and disorder.”