Civic Society's Principles

‘Preserve the Best and Improve the Rest’

Waltham Forest Civic Society encourages and supports the following principles:

1. Preserve our Built Heritage
   1. Existing Conservation Areas valued and effectively managed
   2. New Conservation Areas established to protect areas of local interest or historic importance
   3. Interesting buildings added to the Local List, given adequate protection and new uses found for them where appropriate
   4. Positive and innovative uses found for redundant buildings rather than leaving them empty
   5. Nationally Listed Buildings appreciated and properly maintained
2. Well Planned New Buildings
   1. All new buildings and developments comply with the council’s Design Policy
   2. UDP / LDF guidelines applied more vigorously
3. Retain and Enhance Open Spaces
   1. Community value of open spaces recognised to ensure planners do not just see them as potential development sites
   2. Well designed and accessible amenity spaces included in all new developments
   3. Local green spaces used, protected and appreciated by residents
   4. Parks improved and maintained to the Green Flag standard
   5. Use of green resources such as Epping Forest and the Lea Valley encouraged and facilitated for all visitors
4. Care for Street Scene
   1. Streets regularly deep cleaned and broken paving and road surfaces repaired quickly
   2. Adequate litter bins provided and emptied before they overflow
   3. Fly tipping and graffiti promptly removed
   4. Pavement clutter reduced and removed
   5. More street trees planted and adequately maintained
   6. Residents encouraged to care for their front gardens
5. Community Consultation and Cohesion
   1. Active resident participation in Borough decision making through channels such as Community Councils, Planning Committees
   2. Councillors proactive in consulting with community groups
   3. Communities encouraged and supported to work together to improve their local area
6. Sustainability
   1. Existing buildings refurbished rather than demolished
   2. Energy use in schools and other public buildings minimised
   3. Culture of recycling promoted and recycling facilities improved
   4. Use of car clubs encouraged in order to reduce the number of cars and car journeys
   5. Safe cycling paths and walking routes developed and promoted