A Talk about Lancaster Civic Vision - September 2024
A very interesting talk was given by Peter Wiltshire, (current Chair, accompanied by long-time colleague and former Chair Martin Widdens), on the background and activities of the Lancaster Civic Vision, formerly the Civic Society. This group, founded in 1967 in a period of great social change, is not only about heritage, but is involved also in driving improvement in local commerce and development of community projects.
Peter gave examples, illustrated with archive photographs, of areas of the city which have disappeared, as well as success stories of preservation and regeneration, St John’s Church being a notable work in progress.
Some visible signs of the Society’s recent work are found in the Heritage Plaque scheme commemorating people of local interest; members undertaking litter clearance and weeding around the city; Podcasts from local historian Peter Wade; Publications of guided walks by Gordon Clark and lately a relaying of the paving and cobblestones in Sun Square (not entirely finished).
LCV, a statutory consultee on planning applications, has submitted comments to the City Planners about the potential for tramways to connect Lancaster and Morecambe, particularly in view of the proposed Eden North Project.
Peter deftly fielded audience questions on planning issues, positioning the Civic Vision as not opposed to small scale schemes, such as upper story shop conversion into much needed residential units, but against large scale developments which are left empty by developers and which cannot be repurposed, thus becoming derelict in a few years’ time.
Altogether a very lively and stimulating meeting was enjoyed by members, with an invitation extended to attend future events of the Lancaster Civic Vision.