Stoke Bruerne Conservation Plan by Stoke Bruerne Canal Partnership

Stoke Bruerne Conservation Plan

This document has been written by: The Conservation Studio 1 Querns Lane Cirencester Glos. GL7 1RL Tel:01285 642428 www.theconservationstudio.co.uk

Contents Summary

1.0

Background

Introduction The purpose of the Conservation Plan The structure of the Conservation Plan Public consultation

2 2 2 2

Understanding the asset

General overview of the study area

Historic Landscape Characterisation/Character areas

2.0

Character Area 1. Stoke Bruerne Village 1a Stoke Bruerne - (canalside) 1b Stoke Bruerne - (historic east) 1c Stoke Bruerne - (historic west) 1d Stoke Bruerne â&#x20AC;&#x201C; (late 20th century and after)

8 8 10 12 15

Character Area 2. The Canal Corridor 2a Canal (north of village) 2b Canal (south of village)

16 16 20

Character Area 3. Stoke Park

Character Area 4. Agricultural land surrounding village 4a Farming landscape west and south of village 4b Farming landscape (historic) north-east of village 4c Farming landscape (modernised) east of village 4d Farming landscape (historic) south-east of village

25 25 27 29 30

3.0

Historical Development of the Study Area

4.0

Assessment of SigniďŹ cance

Character Area 1. Stoke Bruerne Village Character Area 2. The Canal Corridor Character Area 3. Stoke Park Character Area 4. Agricultural land surrounding village

39 42 44 45

Assessing issues and vulnerabilities

Character Area 1. Stoke Bruerne Village Character Area 2. The Canal Corridor Character Area 3. Stoke Park Character Area 4. Agricultural land surrounding village

46 50 51 51

5.0

6.0

Conservation Policies and Recommendations Introduction Conservation policies (general) Recommendations (speciﬁc)

7.0

Key historic features – Options The National Waterways Museum Dry lock next to Lock No. 14 Former Mill Dock (the inﬁlled basin next to National Waterways Museum) Field containing former stone quarry and tramway

8.0

Implementation, adoption and review Implementation Adoption Review

53 53 53 55 59 60 61 64 66 70 70 70 70

APPENDICES Appendix 1 Gazetteer of features of architectural or historic interest (name, description, brief history, assessment of signiﬁcance, issues)

Appendix 2 Planning policy context

102

Appendix 3 Consultation statement

105

Appendix 4 Bibliography

107

Map 1: The Stoke Bruerne study area: Designations Map 2 The Stoke Bruerne study area: Extent and character areas Map 3: Historic environment appraisal map – village inset Map 4: Historic environment appraisal map - full study areas

4 7 8 17

SUMMARY The Stoke Bruerne Conservation Plan identifies the important heritage assets of Stoke Bruerne village and environs, assesses vulnerability to change and makes recommendations to ensure that the historic significance of the site is not undermined. Stoke Bruerne village and environs, assesses vulnerability to change and makes recommendations to ensure that the historic significance of the site is not undermined. The Plan is intended as a starting point towards a long term management plan to maximise the potential of the village both as a place to live and visit without weakening its historical integrity. The Plan was commissioned by British Waterways, Northamptonshire Enterprise Limited, South Northamptonshire Council and The Waterways Trust. The study area of the Plan includes all of the village of Stoke Bruerne, the Grand Union Canal from the southern portal of the Blisworth Tunnel to the bottom lock of the Stoke Bruerne flight of locks, buildings and parkland at Stoke Park and surrounding farmland. For the purposes of the Plan, the study area has been divided into four character areas: Stoke Bruerne village; The Grand Union Canal corridor north and south of the village; Stoke Park; Farmland surrounding the village. The Plan notes that Stoke Bruerne is one of the most important locations on the inland waterways containing the National Waterways Museum and many canal-related features of interest. The presence of the Grand Union Canal, passing through the centre of the village, has given Stoke Bruerne a unique character. Canal features such as the duplicate flight of locks, former wharfs, Blisworth Tunnel and the site of the historic plateway provide excellent surviving evidence of the technological and social developments of the canal age. Much of the built heritage survives, thereby providing a visible record of the development of the village and canal system. Stoke Park is listed grade II in English Heritage’s ‘Register of parks and gardens of special historic interest’ and contains two listed buildings of “outstanding architectural or historic interest”. Farmland surrounding the village contains areas of late parliamentary enclosure, ridge and furrow earthworks and four model farms built by the 4th Duke of Grafton c. 1840. The full Conservation Plan is in two sections, the Conservation Plan and an appended Gazetteer containing a record and assessment of key features within the study area that are not noted in the Plan itself. The Conservation Plan, of which this is a summary, includes a characterisation study of the area (Section 2), a brief history (section 3), an area by area assessment of the significance of the historic features within each character area (Section 4), and a review of the issues and vulnerabilities facing the noted historic features (Section 5). Section 6 sets out seven general policies to ensure that the area is maintained and managed according to best practice and twenty one specific recommendations in response to the issues identified in Section 5. Section 7 considers options for the future possible uses of four key features: Museum, dry lock, former Mill Dock and ‘quarry field’. Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

SECTION 1.0 - BACKGROUND Introduction 1.1 This Stoke Bruerne Conservation Plan was commissioned in August 2007 by a steering committee led by British Waterways and funded by British Waterways, Northamptonshire Enterprise Limited, South Northamptonshire Council and The Waterways Trust.

1.5 The Conservation Plan is intended to be the starting point from which a full understanding of the heritage assets in the village can be assessed and a long term management plan can be agreed to maximise the potential of the village both as a place to live and visit without undermining its historical integrity. The structure of the Conservation Plan

1.2 The document has been prepared by The Conservation Studio. The terms of reference are set out in the Stoke Bruerne Conservation Plan Scoping Report, dated February 2007. 1.3 Survey and research work for the Plan was carried out primarily in the summer and early autumn of 2007. The purpose of the Conservation Plan 1.4 The purpose of the Conservation Plan is to identify the important assets of the village, supported by an assessment of why the assets are important, how they may be vulnerable to change and what policies there are, or should be, put in place to ensure that the signiﬁcance of the site is not undermined.

1.6 This conservation plan contains the following sections, largely as set out in the guidance ‘Conservation Management Plans’ (Heritage Lottery Fund) and ‘Conservation Plans in Action’ (English Heritage, 1998): Understanding the Asset; Historical development of the site; Assessment of Signiﬁcance; Vulnerabilities and Issues; Conservation Policies and recommendations; Key historic features options Public consultation 1.7 Before writing this document, the views of local stakeholders on the particular issues facing the conservation area were sought via a letter and a drop-in surgery held at the Village Hall on Saturday 29th September together with interviews with members of the Stoke Bruerne Canal Partnership. These comments were integrated into the ﬁrst draft of the Conservation Plan. Further details about public consultation are contained in the Consultation Statement at Appendix 3. Acknowledgements 1.8 Many thanks to members of the Stoke Bruerne Canal Partnership and especially David Blagrove, local historian, for their help in compiling this document.

South portal to Blisworth Tunnel

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

SECTION 2.0 – UNDERSTANDING THE ASSET Extent and general overview of the study area 2.1 The study area comprises a large part of Stoke Bruerne Parish. The northern boundary is formed by the course of the dismantled Stratford-upon-Avon, Towcester & Midland Junction railway line, the eastern boundary follows the A508 and then passes through ﬁelds to include the lower lock of the Stoke Bruerne locks. To the south the boundary crosses the A508 and follows the parish boundary to Stoke Park Pavilions and then Stoke Park Lane and Stoke Lane northwards to rejoin with the railway line. A small area to the north of the railway line, between Stoke Lane and the footpath from Stoke Bruerne to Blisworth is also included. 2.2 The study area includes all of the village of Stoke Bruerne, the Grand Union Canal from the southern portal of the Blisworth Tunnel to the bottom lock of the Stoke Bruerne ﬂight of locks, buildings and parkland at Stoke Park and several outlying farms and other buildings, notably Stoke Plain and Stoke Gap farms. Structures and sites of interest lying near to, but just outside this boundary were considered within the study where the study would otherwise have been clearly incomplete.

2.4 The canal is used largely for recreational purposes with some freight, notably coal and diesel, being carried by working narrowboats. The canal towpath is used by dog walkers, anglers, families, hikers and ramblers, cyclists and tourist visitors. There is also a ﬁbre optic cable (for communications) under the towpath. The village contains the parish church and small primary school. The A508 passes through the south eastern edge of the study area and is an important road link between Northampton and Milton Keynes.

The Conservation Area lies in a rural landscape

Uses and activity 2.3 The majority of the land within the study area is occupied by arable farmland, with areas of permanent pasture in the north east and south west and a signiﬁcant block of woodland at Stoke Park in the west. The village of Stoke Bruerne is a small residential community with a number of businesses, which chieﬂy service visitors to the Grand Union Canal, in addition to the local farms. These include boat hiring and excursions, restaurants, shops, a museum and an open farm.

The canal and locks are popular visitor attractions

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

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111.0m GP

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BM 104.67m

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Stone House

84.0m

Sewage Works

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Green Pastures

78.6m

Canal Cottage 83.0m

8 50

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Stoke Bruerne Conservation Plan

The Court House

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Map 1 - Study Area: Designations

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The Stoke Bruerne study area: Designations

Drain

Special Landscape Area

Pipe Line Drain

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

75.9m

This map is reproduced from Ordnance Survey material with the permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office Â© Crown copyright. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. (100018219) (2007).

Topography and geology 2.5 The land within the study area lies on the eastern edge of the Northamptonshire Hills and has a steadily rising gradient from approximately 75 metres Above Ordnance Datum (AOD) in the south east to 115 metres AOD at Stoke Plain in the north west. This rising ground is cut into by two small stream valleys running on a north west to south east alignment, the more westerly of which was exploited and deepened through a man-made cutting leading up to the portal of the Blisworth Tunnel. The Grand Union Canal runs through the study area on a gently meandering course from north west to south east. The village of Stoke Bruerne lies near the centre of the study area and is bisected by the canal. 2.6 The study area lies over the junction of two areas of base geology, Lower Oolitic limestone in the north overlying the Lias clay, which outcrops to the south east. Quarries for limestone and ironstone were located in Blisworth to the north. A small disused quarry lies near to Manor Farm in the north west of the study area, whilst a former clay pit associated with a 19th century brickworks is located just to the south of the village and another was located in the cutting leading up to the Blisworth Tunnel. Localised variation in the base and drift geology, between areas of clay and more porous limestone have played an important part in the history of the parish and the canal in particular. Biodiversity 2.7 The study area has a high ecological potential with large areas of potentially valuable habitat including the woodland at Stoke Park and the long wooded corridors of the canal (north of Stoke Bruerne village) and the disused railway line on the northern boundary of the study area.

Wooded corridors create excellent wildlife habitat areas

2.8 The canal, its banks and adjacent lock ponds also offer potential for aquatic and amphibious life, as well as water birds. The former brickworks and clay pit, which lies just to the south of the village and adjacent to the canal is managed by The Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire, as a nature reserve. The farmland and hedgerows, with many mature hedgerow trees, also offer a mix of potential habitats and wildlife corridors, where managed sympathetically. 2.9 The study area retains a number of redundant or unimproved historic farm buildings, which may also provide signiďŹ cant nesting and roosting opportunities for bats, birds and mammals. Indeed, historic houses also often offer opportunities for both bats and birds, whilst domestic gardens have been shown to support high populations and varieties of wildlife where sympathetically managed.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Former Brickworks Nature Reserve

Historic Landscape Characterisation/ Character areas 2.10 The study area has been divided into four main character areas each with its own characteristics deﬁned by topographical location, date of historic form and layout, and current and past uses and activities. These areas are: • Stoke Bruerne village, including the canalside buildings in the centre of the village; • The Grand Union Canal corridor north and south of the village; • Stoke Park, its historic buildings and parkland; • Farmland surrounding the village.

2.11 Within these areas are smaller subareas. Character areas and their sub-areas are described and assessed below and identiﬁed on Map 2. For the purposes of this document the ‘canal corridor’ refers to the open stretches of the canal north and south of the built-up area of the village. The canal and canalside features between Lock 15 and Wharf Cottage are considered as part of the village and discussed within Character Area 1 – Stoke Bruerne village.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

The Stoke Bruerne study area: Extent and character areasCharacter

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Character Area1 Stoke Bruerne village, including the canalside buildings in the centre of the village Introduction 2.12 This character area includes the full extent of the village, including all of the land within the settlement boundary, the whole of the Stoke Bruerne Conservation Area and a number of small ﬁelds and paddocks surrounding it.

differences in current usage, activity and history of development. The following four such character areas have been identiﬁed: • • • •

1a - Stoke Bruerne canalside; 1b - Stoke Bruerne east of the canal; 1c - Stoke Bruerne west of the canal; and 1d - Stoke Bruerne 20th century village expansion.

Each of these sub-areas is described in greater detail below. 1a Stoke Bruerne canalside

2.13 The village is characterised as a built-up settlement area, but retaining many small, medium and large areas of open space, including private gardens, as well as public spaces. The spaces are largely deﬁned by the street pattern, building alignments and property boundaries, which include walls, hedgerows, tree lines and fences. Within this area a number of small sub-character areas have been identiﬁed, which vary from each other as a result of

Location/relationship to other areas and surroundings 2.14 This area lies in the centre of the village immediately on either side of the canal. The east and west parts of the village are linked by Bridge Road, which crosses the character area on a historic road bridge over the canal. Other paths between buildings and through the car park of the

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

National Waterways Museum also lead out to the historic village. The route of the canal leads outwards to the wider Grand Union Canal Corridor to the north west and south, with access provided by the canal towpath footpaths. The towpaths are permissive paths over which British Waterways allow walkers but they are not public rights of way. Current ownership/management 2.15 Land and buildings within the area are in differing ownership, including privately owned residential houses, shops, public houses and the National Waterways Museum (leased by The Waterways Trust). British Waterways owns a variety of properties throughout this area as well as the canal, towpaths, the museum and adjacent car park. Landscape setting and description 2.16 Views out of this area take in the hillside to the north and the curving line of the canal to the north west, which disappears out of view around a bend. These views are framed by the tightly packed buildings on the canalside which screen some views to the east and west. 2.17 The break in the building line at the museum’s car park provides views out to the east across the rooftops of the village to the farmland beyond. Views into the wider spaces of the village are relatively constrained, although from the western foot of the road bridge a view up Bridge Road takes in one of the village’s small greens and a mixture of later 20th century houses, as well as older buildings. 2.18 To the south, views from the road bridge overlook the lock pond. The arable fields with trees in and surrounding Stoke Park make an important backdrop. Other views out of the area are constrained by high growing hedgerows, but generally take in the large arable fields to the south west and the smaller pasture fields to the east and south

east. The falling ground and curving line of the canal combine to close off views further to the south. Historic environment character and appearance 2.19 The area is a mixture of private, semi-public and commercial buildings tightly packed around a short stretch of the Grand Union Canal. The canal runs from north west to south east through the area. The canalside buildings are a mixture of two and three storey structures which address the canal side with only small area, if any, of private gardens separating them from the canal towpath. Commercial properties include two public houses, a restaurant, a gift shop and two bed and breakfast guesthouses. The National Waterways Museum stands in the north of this area and is a semi-public building. The former chapel was previously used as a tea rooms, but is now identiﬁed for a business use. 2.20 This character area includes the stretch of the Grand Union Canal that was cut through the historic village of Stoke Bruerne, causing considerable disruption to the village and its roads. The historic environment of this area is comprised mainly of late 18th/ early 19th century canalside buildings and infrastructure on the west side, and buildings that were built on the east side later in the 19th century.

The relationship of the canals to the surrounding buildings depicts the character of the village centre

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

2.21 Prevalent building materials are a mixture of limestone and red brick, with red brick taking the larger part. The National Waterways Museum occupies a 19th century mill building and the adjacent buildings are former mill workers cottages. Being built up on the embanked canalside the buildings on the east side of the canal stand well above the more traditional area of the village to the north east and the modern houses to the east. 2.22 The red brick former lock keeper’s cottage at Canal House on the west side and the restaurant on the east side of the canal – noted for its connection with the nurse ‘Sister’ Mary Ward - make a strong contribution to the appearance of the space through the addition of strong colouring and texture.

• Bridge No. 53* • Lock No. 14 Stoke Top Lock including weighing machine and dry dock * • Lock No. 15* • Waterways Museum* • Ropewalk* • Leggers’ Hut* • Boat Inn* • Canal Cottage* • Mill Dock (inﬁlled)* • Poplar trees adjacent to Museum • Former wharf • Sister Mary’s House* • Wharf Cottage and adjacent wharf ofﬁce • Old Chapel* • Navigation Inn • Other historic buildings, listed and unlisted (see Map 3)

2.23 Nearly all of the buildings are considered to make a strong contribution to the quality of the historic environment which has an important role as the focus for visiting tourists. The public houses and restaurants make use of the canalside area as an opportunity to provide outside dining and drinking with pleasant views across the canal but this is not always popular with the owners of adjoining properties. Bridge No. 53

2.24 The canal creates considerable movement through the area, with boats passing through, whilst others are moored for longer periods but moved occasionally, creating a regularly changing scene. Two working locks (Lock 14 and 15) create a focus of interest and activity. Key historic features 2.25 The following are the key historic features within Character Area 1a (Stoke Bruerne canalside). Those marked with an asterisk are assessed in detail in the Gazetteer in Appendix 1:

1b Stoke Bruerne east of the canal Location/relationship to other areas and surroundings 2.26 This area lies to the east of the village’s historic canalside and borders onto areas of farmland surrounding the village. Footpaths and a bridleway lead out to the countryside to the north whilst the lanes leading to the A508 pass between ﬁelds with hedgerow boundaries to the east and south. Access to the historic canalside is available around the road bridge and through the car parks of the National Waterways Museum and the Navigation Inn public house.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Current ownership/management 2.27 The majority of the area is formed of privately owned houses with gardens, as well as highways. A number of small, privately owned paddocks and fields are also located within this area. Landscape setting and description 2.28 From publicly accessible areas this part of the study area is largely inward looking, with only limited views out to the wider countryside. The tall buildings and trees standing on the canal embankment to the west form a stop to views. Occasional gaps in the building line on the north side of Rookery Lane provide views to the hillside to the north, accessible via the bridleway, whilst views to the southeast open out at the eastern end of the area. The long, straight course of Rookery Lane, running eastwards to the A508 provides a long view, framed by well maintained hedgerows. At the northern end of Mill Lane views out to the surrounding countryside open out from the closely spaced buildings, enclosing the street space. At the end of Chapel Lane, where the building line ends, there is a view up the hill to the adjoining fields. Historic environment character and appearance 2.29 This area represents part of the older area of settlement, divided from the western part of the village by the construction of the canal. It is focussed on the main routes of Bridge Road and Rookery Lane, which runs out of the village to the east and the cul-desac lanes of Mill Lane and Chapel Lane, which form parts of the village’s historic street pattern. 2.30 These routes all converge at a small green with a bench and finger post, which forms an attractive focal point. The green is enclosed to the north by a row of former almshouses, to the south east by the listed

building of Rookery Cottage, to the south west by the vernacular building of Corner Cottage and to the west by a pair of semidetached houses, built using a sensitive design that borrows from the detail of the nearby 19th century buildings. 2.31 The green terminates the straight course of Rookery Lane which enters the village from the east and passes modern residential buildings before reaching the imposing structures of Rookery Farmhouse and the former farm buildings of Rookery Farm, now converted to residential use. These farm buildings create a formal entry to the village and represent one of four model farms in the parish, built in the mid 19th century by the Duke of Grafton. Further modern detached houses are located to the west, although some of those on the south side of Rookery Road are hidden by tall beech hedges. 2.32 Mill Lane leads to the north from the unnamed green between two rows of cottages which form a narrow entrance to an equally narrow street. The 17th and 18th century cottages are closely spaced, several forming short terraces on both sides of the road. They are built in local materials, including limestone, with small areas of red brick and ironstone. The Welland, a grade II listed cottage, with a longstraw thatch roof, stands on the west side of the street. A row of late 20th century detached houses at the northern end of Mill Lane intrude upon the historic character of the area as a result of their use of unsympathetic design and materials. These stand opposite the 18th or 19th century farmhouse at Manor Farm, built in a similar style to the cottages further south. The northern end of Mill Lane subsides into long narrow ﬁeld, formerly a ‘Riding’ and now accessed by a public footpath, forming a gentle transition from the village to the countryside beyond.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

The narrow enclosed space of Mill Lane has a secluded tranquil feel

The Old Chapel, Chapel Lane

2.33 The secluded area of Chapel Lane has a mixture of historic buildings including vernacular cottages, the former Wesleyan Chapel and 19th century red brick houses. A terrace of four early 20th century cottages and a pair of later 20th century maisonettes are out of harmony with the character of the area. Additional areas of modern development are located in the south of the character area, either side of Bridge Road and on the southern side of Rookery Lane, although these are mostly set back from the road, with hedges and trees partially screening them from the public view so that they do not intrude overtly into the settings of historic buildings.

they have worn out. The Museum car park lies behind the building line on the north side of Chapel Lane and is accessed through a wide opening. The current condition of the car park is poor and is one of the few unattractive areas in the village. A small area for car parking at the western end of Chapel Lane has a similar negative impact.

2.34 The use of dry stone walls as boundaries for gardens makes a positive contribution to the historic character of the area, although it was noted that a wall at the southern end of Bridge Road leading up to the Greenway and the bridge is in need of re-instating. The green grass verges ﬂanking the roads in the character area contribute to the wider rural feel.

Key historic features 2.36 The following are the key historic features within Character Area 1b (Stoke Bruerne – east). Those marked with an asterisk are assessed in detail in the Gazetteer in Appendix 1: • Rookery Farm and farm buildings • Village Green at Rookery Road/Mill Lane Junction • Museum Car Park • Historic street pattern • Historic buildings, listed and unlisted (see Map 3) 1c Stoke Bruerne west of the canal

2.35 Several buildings in the character area have roofs of corrugated metal. This is presumably a result of replacement of thatched roofs. The current materials are weathered in and do not detract from the appearance of the area, although ideally they would be replaced with thatch once

Location/relationship to other areas and surroundings 2.37 This area lies in the village centre, to the south west of the Grand Union Canal and surrounded to the west and south

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

by areas of modern housing, although in places it backs onto the farmland to the west of the village. Shutlanger Road/Bridge Road runs through the area, providing access to the historic canalside area to the east and, through the modern development on the village outskirts, to the countryside to the north west. 2.38 There is no formal division between the historic areas of the village and the more recent housing developments, the small green at the junction of Bridge Road and Bakers Lane provides one point from which the later 20th century housing is seen. The modern rear extension of the Boat Inn, opposite the smaller green, makes a negative contribution to the character of this area as a result of its modern design and materials, although the well maintained adjoining building and garden of Canal House make an important positive contribution to its character.

2.39 The modern buildings are of sufficient quality that they are not considered to be intrusive to the more historic area. Looking north west up Bridge Road/Shutlanger Road the bend in the road blocks views from the historic area to the more recent developments. At the western limit of the historic area the churchyard of St Mary’s Church and a public footpath provides a route to a cul-de-sac of post-war housing at Wentworth Way. Current ownership/management 2.40 Land owners in this area include owners of private residences, the small Primary School and Saint Mary’s Church. The Parish Council owns the village green, which forms the main focal point of the area, and is responsible for its management. Landscape setting and description 2.41 Due to the enclosure created by building, tall trees and hedgerows this is well-enclosed area with few views out to the surrounding countryside or the canal from the public areas. As such, views are concentrated within the character area, particularly across the green and along the lines of Shutlanger Road/Bridge Road with key historic buildings, including the School House and the School, providing points of interest. 2.42 The field immediately to the north of St Mary’s Church provides an important open area, separating the post-war development of Wentworth Way from the more historic area of the village. It is currently used for overflow car parking. 2.43 The areas of green space at the junctions of roads and lanes make an important contribution to the character of the area and views through it.

St Mary’s Church

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic environment character and appearance 2.44 This is a quiet residential area with a number of buildings with public and community uses, including the village hall, school and Saint Mary’s Church. Buildings are predominantly set back from the road within small front gardens with the village green providing division from the passing road. 2.45 The three listed buildings standing around The Green form a ﬁne ensemble with consistent use of materials, particularly limestone and thatch, which provides a strong sense of place. The school on the south west side of The Green completes the enclosure of the space, whilst the very unusual Victorian Gothic structure of School House in limestone with a steeply pitched roof and two half dormer windows, is an important gateway feature to the village. 2.46 The cluster of older buildings at the northern end of Bakers Lane, including Yew Cottage, The Old Bakery, Stone House and The Cottage also form a cohesive group of vernacular buildings with interesting detailing including 19th century ridge tiles and stone mullion windows. They enclose another small focal space. However, the recent modern structure of The Bakehouse has a signiﬁcant adverse effect on the character of the area, looming over the road and surrounding buildings, despite an attempt to model it on an earlier structure.

School House

2.47 The 17th century building of Bruerne House is removed from the roadside within a spacious and well tree’d garden. The limestone front elevation and natural slate tile roof can just be seen from the road. The associated farm buildings lie just to the north of it and can also just be viewed from the top of a long drive. The red handmade tile roof and circular window in one exposed gable are unusual features in the village. 2.48 The village hall’s single storey red brick structure, contributes to the character of the lane leading up to the church, although to some extent it echoes the detailing of the former Methodist Chapel to the east of the canal. The church itself is an imposing structure in local limestone. The tall three stage tower is visible from a wide area particularly along the canal to the south. 2.49 Other modern buildings in this area include a number of small bungalows and larger mid 20th century houses, of which the two storey houses The Rosary and Belmont are considered to make an adverse contribution to the streetscape due the scale of the building which is out of character with surrounding structures. 2.50 Dry stone walls and hedgerows for boundaries are important features within the area as are the high number of mature trees, particularly in the garden of Bruerne House and along the approaches to, and boundaries of, St Mary’s Church. A tall

The Green

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

maple tree at the turn in the road in front of School House, reinforces the views to this building and frames the view to the buildings at the green beyond. Key historic features 2.51 The following are the key historic features within Character Area 1c (Stoke Bruerne – west). Those marked with an asterisk are assessed in detail in the Gazetteer in Appendix 1: • School House • Ensemble of historic buildings by The Green • Historic buildings on Bakers Lane* • St Mary’s Church and Churchyard* • Stoke Bruerne Primary School* • Village Hall • Village Green and Bakers Lane Green • Historic street pattern • Bruerne House and former Rectory Farm buildings • Field next to St Mary’s Church 1d Stoke Bruerne - late 20th century and after Location/relationship to other areas and surroundings 2.52 This character area is split into three parts and includes land and buildings on both sides of Bakers Lane, to the south of St Mary’s Church and along the north west approach to the village along Shutlanger Road, including the cul-de-sac at Wentworth Way. These areas all adjoin the western part of the historic village with access into it along Shutlanger Road/Bridge Road and through the small lanes running off this, as well as through the churchyard.

Landscape setting and description 2.54 The modern houses on Bakers Lane enjoy views across the rolling countryside to the south of the village, which can be glimpsed from public areas through gaps in the building line. The more densely developed area of Wentworth Way has fewer views out from the public areas, although properties on the south and west sides have views out across the countryside towards Stoke Park. The houses on the east side of Wentworth Way which back onto the ﬁeld owned by the church (used for car parking) have excellent views out in a north easterly direction Historic environment character and appearance 2.55 Today’s street pattern includes parts of the medieval and post medieval street pattern of the village, whilst the land and buildings within the character area form part of the setting of the adjoining historic village. They are also visible from the surrounding farmland. This area contains only buildings of mid to later 20th century construction, none of which are considered to have any special historic or architectural interest. Consequently no key historic features have been identiﬁed.

Current ownership/management 2.53 These areas include a number of privately owned houses and contains the large Recreation Ground, which is owned and managed by the Parish Council.

Modern houses on Wentworth Way

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Character Area 2 The Grand Union Canal corridor north and south of the village Introduction 2.56 The second character area comprises the historic and continuing route of the canal through the parish, as well as various elements of infrastructure associated with the canal. It therefore also includes many features that relate to the history of the canal during its construction and use. 2.57 The village’s historic canalside area forms part of the Stoke Bruerne village character area (Character Area 1). The canal corridor comprises two areas with rather different character, which are: • Area 2a The Northern Canal Corridor; and • Area 2b The Southern Canal Corridor These areas are considered separately below

to Blisworth, beyond the study area. The towpath provides an alternative pedestrian route climbing the hillside and diverging from the course of the tunnel towards the north – the northern section of the ‘climb’ becomes a public right of way Near the crest of the hill it joins the course of the former ‘plateway’ and then runs northward towards Blisworth to join the Toll Road. Footpaths lead out to the surrounding countryside in the north of this area, where the tunnel allows crossing of the canal’s course. Current ownership/management 2.60 The canal, its towpath and surrounding buildings are all owned and maintained by British Waterways. One field on the east bank of the canal, the site of a former stone quarry, the rectory fish ponds and the course of the canal’s approach to the first attempted tunnel, is also owned by British Waterways. The corridor of woodland running above the tunnel and across to the towpath includes land in private ownership, forming part of one of the local farms.

2a. The Northern Canal Corridor Location/relationship to other areas and surroundings 2.58 This character area lies to the north west of the village and ﬂows between areas of farmland. It includes the steep sided cutting of the canal’s approach to the Blisworth tunnel, as well as land on top of the cutting with views across the surroundings ﬁelds and back towards the village. 2.59 Beyond the village’s waterside the area rapidly becomes heavily tree’d screening some views both out to the surrounding landscape and in towards the canal. The canal provides access to the south through both the waterway and the towpath on its east bank. To the north the canal runs through the Blisworth Tunnel

2.61 A small area of land in the north of the character area, which includes one of the mounds of spoil from the digging of shafts to the tunnel, contains a smallholding with a privately owned caravan storage site, workshops and an associated dwelling.

The gently winding canal is enclosed by a corridor of trees

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic environment appraisal map â&#x20AC;&#x201C; full study area

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Landscape setting and description 2.62 The thick tree cover over a large part of this character area ensures that it has an inward looking and sheltered atmosphere. Views are channelled down and across the canal, with features of historic interest and moored boats acting as focal points, whilst canal boats and wildlife, particularly water birds, create activity and movement. Pedestrians walk along the towpath and the recently opened plateway path, which has been enhanced with a number of canal and rural themed steel-rod sculptures. 2.63 The trees lining these routes frame the significant views, as well as creating screening that ensures a progression of views, which emerge as one travels along the footpaths’ gently winding courses. The small fields either side of the canal provide areas of green open space, although they are not currently publicly accessible. The fields are bounded with managed hedgerows, although that running along the eastern bank of the canal has grown to a height where it blocks views out to the countryside and historic features on this side of the canal. The footpaths provide important areas of publicly accessible space in green surroundings but are limited in the range of recreational activities possible. 2.64 Views up the slopes to the village’s historic buildings, including the 18th century farm buildings at Bruerne House are possible at the southern end of this area. Here gardens run down the slope, divided from the canalside by low hedges and drystone walls. Historic environment character and appearance 2.65 The character of this area is closely related to the historical development of the canal and the engineering works undertaken during its construction (some of which were abandoned before completion),

as well as its subsequent operation and ongoing maintenance. It has the atmosphere of a peaceful and enclosed waterway, which is accentuated by the gentle speed of passing canal boats and pedestrians. 2.66 The use of traditional coping materials for the walls of the canal makes a positive contribution to the character of the area. These include blue brick bullnose copings and white painted stone blockwork. In other areas, a narrow grass verge runs between the canal and the footpath, softening the appearance of the canal edge and contributing to the rural character of the area. The use of corrugated metal piling in place of traditional brick, to retain the canal walls, detracts slightly from the historic character of the canal. 2.67 The appearance of the red brick portal of the Blisworth Tunnel makes an important positive impact when it emerges into view. It has been listed grade II and is the most important building in this character area. The canalside buildings, which stand just to the south of the tunnel portal also provide considerable historical interest but are not listed. A single storey red brick store building, which would have contained fuel and tools for the operation of several steam powered tug boats, stands nearest the tunnel. It was recently restored and equipped for use as a forge but is currently vacant and unused. Nearby, lying on the embankment, is a circular concrete section of the tunnel, placed there after major works of restoration to the tunnel in 1984. A former stable building standing slightly further south is built in the same red brick and uses similar design. It has been used to display art work produced by local children but has been subject to some minor vandalism, including grafﬁti. 2.68 The route of the former plateway has recently been cleared for a footpath running northwards up a gentle gradient from the towpath and ending with a ﬂight of steps,

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

The Blisworth Tunnel and adjacent structures create a signiﬁcant moment on the Grand Union Canal

which connect it with the towpath at a lower level. An unofﬁcial path has developed from the end of the current plateway route, through to the footpath that follows the old boat horse route over the tunnel, which bypasses these steep steps. As mentioned above a number of steel-rod sculptures are currently located along the course of the plateway. 2.69 The footpath running over the tunnel portal, which provides access to the ﬁelds to the west of the canal has been moved further up the slope although it is currently nearly impassable and requires maintenance. 2.70 These footpaths run through leafy, wooded areas with many mature broad leaf trees including several impressive oak trees.

2.71 Other points of interest along the route of the canal include the abutment of the bridge built for the Rector of Stoke Bruerne to reconnect the parts of his property which were severed by the construction of the canal, and the former wharf built to serve the stone quarry in the field to the east of the canal. Adjacent to this former wharf, in a field east of the canal, there are the earthworks of the former Rectory fishponds and the course of the first attempted canal. None of these features are very clearly viewable from the public area of the towpath, partly because of the tall hedgerow. 2.72 The woods running over the course of the tunnel contain a number of very large spoil heaps from the digging of shafts along the tunnel’s length, some of which are visible from the public footpaths and roads. A short section of the disused railway line

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

crosses this area, including the brick-built abutments of a bridge crossing the former horse path. 2.73 The area is, overall, considered to have a pleasant atmosphere that is well connected with the signiﬁcance of the historic features. Key historic features 2.74 The following are the key historic features within Character Area 2a (Canal - North). Those marked with an asterisk are assessed in detail in the Gazetteer in Appendix 1: • • • • • • • • •

Towpath and boat horse path South portal to Blisworth Tunnel* Tug store* Stables* Site of Rectory Bridge* Tunnel spoil earthworks* Horse plate railway (east side)* Winding hole (modern)* Site of quarry railway and loading wharf (quarry ﬁeld)* • Footpaths to surrounding farmland • Rectory ﬁshponds* • Alternative route of the canal

the A508, including some vehicle access and car parking. The towpath and canal continue to the south providing access to areas beyond the study area and link to additional public footpaths. Current ownership/management 2.76 Most of the land within the area is owned and managed by British Waterways, although The Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire and Peterborough manage a large nature reserve to the west of the canal at the northern end of the character area. The cottage beside Lock 16 is privately owned. The one beside Lock 15 is a tied cottage. A number of small, privately owned cottages and one larger farm are located in the south, near to Lock 20. 2.77 Two fields adjacent to the car park of The Navigation PH are used for camping and caravanning and are registered with The Caravan Club (five pitches). Opposite the camping field, on the other side of Greenways, a field is used for overflow parking on busy weekends.

2b Canal (south of village) Location/relationship to other areas and surroundings 2.75 This character area starts just to the south of the village’s historic core and follows the course of the canal to the southern boundary of the study area. It is bounded by farmland to the east and west. This area is accessible from the village centre via the towpath that runs along both side of the canal. The footpath, originally a coach road, leading from the village to Stoke Park, has a gateway into the nature reserve, providing another point of access, whilst in the south routes to the towpath are present on both side of the canal from

This part of the canal has less enclosure, with views to village and countryside beyond

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Landscape setting and description 2.78 This stretch of the canal is more open than that to the north and often stands slightly above the surrounding countryside, with good viewing points on the downstream end of each lock. This provides good views out to the south and east taking in the rolling agricultural landscape, although in places the views are screened by over tall hedgerows. There are few mature trees within the area, which does create a starker appearance than in the northern character area. 2.79 The infilled areas of the former duplicate locks provide small open areas of green space alongside the canal linked by the towpath. The series of locks (five in addition to the two in the village’s canalside area), provide points of activity, as well as interesting architectural detail, with the lock pounds acting as calmer areas of still water, occasionally disturbed by activity from the adjacent locks. Some areas of scrub and undergrowth, as well as a few small patches of rushes and flag iris have colonised the eastern canal edge, providing habitat for wildlife and softening the edge of the canal. However, in some places these areas might be regarded as intrusive to the well managed green spaces. 2.80 The nature reserve in the north west of the character zone provides a very large area of publicly accessible green open space. Several informal paths of mown grass have been created through the area to provide better access. The reserve has an unmanaged appearance (perfect for wildlife) as a result of the development of scrub over the hollows of the former clay pit. The former arm of the canal that runs into the area has good value for wildlife as an area of permanent slowly moving water, 2.81 The view back from the canal to St Mary’s Church, standing on the crest of the ridge of high ground to the north west, is

one of the most important in the study area and reflects the use of the church tower as a landmark for the surveyors laying out the course of the canal in the late 18th century 2.82 Areas of car parking at the southern end of the character area, with poor hard surfacing and piles of loose chippings, currently detract from the quality of the historic environment, although other, well maintained areas provide a valuable facility for visitors. Historic environment character and appearance 2.83 The flight of locks running through this area and up into the village’s core make a very important contribution to the historic interest of the character area. Only Locks 14 and 20 survive of the 1835 duplicate series. All the others are the original chambers. The repeated materials and colours bring uniformity to the area. Use of similar materials on several buildings, including the stable building by the Bottom Lock, a pumping house (built to pump water from the bottom of the lock flight to the top) and a row of cottages near the bottom lock creates a cohesive sense of place. Use of white and black paint on railings, lock gates and balance beams also contributes to a uniform and harmonic appearance. 2.84 Areas of canal where brick walling has been retained as the sides of the channel have the greatest historic character. The lock pound between Lock Nos. 19 and 20 is notable for the survival of this walling, although it is now in need of repair. In other locations, sheet piling has been used to provide retaining walls for the canal banks. This is not considered to be a sympathetic material for the canal and detracts from the appearance of the 18th and 19th century buildings along its length. The negative impact of the sheet piling is ameliorated in places by the use of white painted stone copings.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Key historic features 2.85 The following are the key historic features within Character Area 2b (Canal - South). Those marked with an asterisk are assessed in detail in the Gazetteer in Appendix 1: • Locks No. 16 -20 inclusive* • Stoke Bruerne Wharf and trans-shipment point* • Side ponds on west side* • Former brickworks and arm (west side)* • Horse plate railway* • Dwellings on west side • Stratford Road Bridge (1930s) • Cottages Number 140 and 141 • Stable building at Bottom Lock • Pumping House at Bottom Lock • Lower Farm Entry to Stoke Park from the village

The lower locks and surrounding historic buildings create a ﬁtting entry point in Stoke Bruerne

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

stands on a spur of hill which forms another important landmark in views from the southern part of the canal corridor, adding to the mixed rural landscape.

Character Area 3 Stoke Park Introduction Location/relationship to other areas and surroundings 2.87 Stoke Park lies in the south west corner of the study area and is bounded to the north and east by a broad area of farmland. The full area Stoke Park’s historic parkland continues beyond the study area to the south and west. Current ownership/management 2.88 Although formerly a single landholding the park has now been divided between several properties, which include a large area of farmland, as well as a number of private residences accommodated within several converted farm and estate buildings as well as the remaining structures of the great house of Stoke Park. Access to the park is restricted. One footpath, which runs from the village at the bottom of Bridge Road, crosses the farmland to the south west of the village, and runs through the park and connects to the bridleway between Shutlanger and Alderton. Stoke Park Lane runs southwards from Shutlanger Road, through the farmland to the park, passing through Stoke Park Woods and approaches the group of buildings surrounding the Pavilions at the heart of the Park. Landscape setting and description 2.89 The southern part of the park is bounded by a mature tree line and dense hedge which screen views into it from the wider study area although they form a prominent landscape feature in views from the surrounding farmland and the southern part of the canal corridor. In the north, the park is bordered by a narrow strip of ﬁeld, which backs directly on to Stoke Park Woods. The thick deciduous woodland

2.90 An avenue of mature Lombardy poplars lining the footpath across the park, stands out from the general mass of trees seen from outside the character area but is in a very poor condition. 2.91 The open green spaces of the park can be appreciated from the footpath running across it, as well as from the pubic road. The gardens surrounding Stoke Park Pavilions provide an excellent example of an early 17th century formal garden, whilst the plain to the south preserves some of the character of the wider formal landscape. There are some views up to the pavilions across this area from the A508 to the south. They are open to the public on an occasional basis for a fee. 2.92 Other areas of green open space within the park are out of the public view and do not make a signiﬁcant contribution to the character of the historic environment. Historic environment character and appearance 2.93 Stoke Park preserves the remains of a formal designed landscape, built on a late medieval hunting park. The surviving portions of a house built by Robert Crane in the late 1620s, consisting of two pavilions and remains of a curving colonnade, form the centrepiece of the park, with an attractive terraced 17th century garden with views across the parkland to the south. The pavilions represent some of the earliest Palladian structures built in England and, despite some remodelling in the 18th century and modern conversion for residential use of the eastern pavilion, they are of great historic and architectural signiﬁcance. There is currently some limited permissive public access to the grounds during afternoons in August for a small fee.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

2.94 The associated house was destroyed by ﬁre in the late 19th century, although details of its design have survived in drawings from the 18th century. It was almost immediately replaced with a large Neo-Jacobean building, which, in turn was largely demolished in the late 1940s following its use by the army during the Second World War. The standing NeoJacobean building is the service wing of this house, now forming a discrete private dwelling. The structures of a home farm form a group of interesting historic buildings surrounding the pavilions, but are largely screened from it by mature trees, garden hedges and the bulk of the service wing of the late 19th century house. They include a stableblock, a 17th century dovecot, barns, farmhouse and several former tied cottages. All are now used for residential purposes, which has involved some loss of historic character from the agricultural structures. As a group of buildings they have a particularly interesting mixture of historic architectural detailing in their construction from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries.

Key historic features The following are the key historic features within Character Area 3 (Stoke Park). Those marked with an asterisk are assessed in detail in the Gazetteer in Appendix 1: • Listed buildings of Stoke Park • Registered park and garden • Woodland, managed parkland

The recently restored music room at Stoke Park

2.95 Much of the character of the parkland has apparently been lost since the Second World War, largely as a result of changing agricultural use and felling of trees. An avenue of trees running along the drive (Stoke Park Lane) from Stoke Park Woods to the house is on the alignment of an avenue recorded on an early 18th century map of the area. 2.94 The construction of large, modern agricultural buildings in the parkland to the north east of the house represents an unfortunate intrusion to the historic character of the area, but may be regarded as a necessary development for its continuing agricultural use.

Ornamental fountain and parkland beyond at Stoke Park

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Character Area 4 Agricultural land surrounding village Introduction 2.98 The village and canal corridor are surrounded by areas of farmland, which make an important contribution to the character of the area though the provision of open, green areas. Routes for walking, horse-riding and cycling in this area pass by features such as historic ﬁeld systems that are not as obviously historic as structures in the village and beside the canal but are nevertheless signiﬁcant. 2.99 This area is viewed from both the village and the canal corridor, with its well maintained green spaces, hedgerows and trees contributing to the amenity of the area and the overall value of the historic environment as a wider landscape. 2.100 The late enclosure of this area through Act of Parliament in the mid 19th century allowed the division of the Grafton Estate into a number of new landholdings managed as tenant farms from a series of model farms, including large farmhouses and farm buildings built by the estate to a repeated plan. Many of these farm buildings remain although some have now been converted to residential uses. Changes in agriculture and the introduction of new rural activities, including an ‘open farm’ and areas of ‘equiculture’ have resulted in some recent changes to the character of the area

Each of these areas is considered separately below: 4a Farming landscape west and south of village Location/relationship to other areas and surroundings 2.102 This character forms an arch running around the south and west side of the village and adjoining the western side of the canal corridor. Shutlanger Road runs from the village through this area and continues to Shutlanger, to the north west. The A508 runs through this area. The southern part of the canal corridor can be accessed from the A508, or via the nature reserve. 2.103 Stoke Park lies to the south west with the boundary marked by a long tree belt in the extreme south and by a long, narrow ﬁeld, believed to be an old deer leap, running around Stoke Park Woods. Stoke Park Lane runs through this farmland, which continues to the west of the study area and into Stoke Park. A footpath runs through this area from the village, past the nature reserve and into Stoke Park.

2.101 As a result of the historic landscape character survey undertaken, this area has been further subdivided in four smaller character areas, comprising: • 4a Farming landscape west and south of village • 4b Farming landscape (historic) northeast of village • 4c Farming landscape (modernised) east of village • 4d Farming landscape (historic) south east of village

Large arable ﬁelds to the west of the canal

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

2.104 The northern part of the canal corridor can be accessed along two footpaths, which both cross the arable ﬁelds. Current ownership/management 2.105 This area comprises farmland belonging to a number of rural businesses, including Stoke Plain Farm which lies in the north west. Land owners are responsible for the maintenance of roadside hedges bordering their own land, as well as those within the ﬁelds. Landscape setting and description 2.106 This character area includes land running down hill from the top of a ridge near the northern boundary of the study area, to the lower lying land to the west. It contains a number of substantial treelines which, to a minor extent, screen views out of the character area although there are still panoramic views to the rolling Northamptonshire countryside to the west and south, from many areas particularly from the northern part of the character area.

area. Views to the north are stopped by the line of woodland that marks the course of the former Towcester and Olney Railway. Historic environment character and appearance 2.109 This is an area of late parliamentary enclosure farmland (i.e. enclosed in the mid 19th century by Act of Parliament) characterised by the division of land by long, straight ﬁeld boundaries that impose a geometric pattern of enclosures. Nearly all the hedgerows date from the Parliamentary enclosure and are therefore over one hundred and forty years old. As such, they constitute important hedgerows according to the criteria of The Hedgerows Regulations 1997. The ﬁelds are relatively large and well suited to arable agriculture, which has encouraged their retention in this area. The late enclosure has also allowed the creation of a road pattern which includes long straight sections, indeed, the road running along the western boundary of the character area was constructed by the canal company in the early 19th century and is sometimes referred to as The Company Road.

2.107 Views into the village are largely screened from the north although the elevated position of the settlement above the land to the south provides some views up to it, in which the church tower acts as a prominent landmark. The southern part of this area has few footpaths and is therefore relatively inaccessible although it makes an important contribution to views out from the southern part of the canal corridor. The mass of the woods at Stoke Park mark the western edge of the character area in the south, whilst the ridge to the north forms a natural barrier to views from this part of the character area. 2.108 The dense tree growth along the northern part of the canal corridor prevents views to the canal or further east from the publicly accessible parts of this character

The wooded canal corridor creates a barrier to views eastwards

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

2.110 The buildings of Stoke Plain Farm, which stands in the north west of this character area, form the best preserved example of the model farms built by the Duke of Grafton in the mid 19th century, presumably to take advantage of the enclosure of the open ﬁelds. The large house has a dominating presence, standing on the crest of the ridge. Its presence is accentuated by the tall Scots pine trees in its garden. The early/mid 19th century farm buildings, which are of contemporary date with the house and form a planned set, have retained many of their original features, at least partly as a result of the construction of new farm buildings to the north which have superseded their functions, avoiding the need for excessive modernisation. However, the older farm buildings are now in a poor condition. 2.111 The disused railway line mentioned above runs through this area and is now covered by a thick belt of woodland. A small railway station building, now converted for residential use stands just to the west of the study area. Its use of red brick and steeply angled rooﬂines contrasts with the limestone and shallow hipped roofs of Stoke Plain Farm.

Key historic features • Stoke Plain Farm; • Towcester to Olney Railway Line; • Late Parliamentary Enclosure Field System • Company Road 4b Farming landscape (historic) northeast of village Location/relationship to other areas and surroundings 2.112 This character area, as the name implies, lies to the north east of the village, with the northern part of the canal corridor to its west and an area of farmland of more modern character to its east. A footpath running along the northern edge of the character zone provides access to the canal corridor to the east, whilst the path running down the length of a very long, narrow ﬁeld provides access to the village at the northern end of Mill Lane and, indeed, appears to form the historic continuation of that road to the north. This footpath crosses the line of the former railway line and continues towards Roade and Blisworth to the north east and north west respectively. Current ownership/management 2.113 This area is all in private ownership as farmland belonging to several rural businesses. Landscape setting and description

The rolling hills provide expansive views to the south

2.114 The land within this character area includes part of the steep slope running up from the village and the plateau of higher ground above it. As such there are excellent views out of this area across the rolling Northamptonshire countryside to the south and east which take in some of the buildings in the village, and their rooftops in particular. The hedgerows are well

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

managed, but sufﬁciently tall in places to block views out to the wider area or even across the character area. 2.115 The footpaths form the only publicly accessible green spaces within the character area, although they provide visual access to wider green areas. This area also forms the background of views towards the north from within the village.

2.118 Nearly all of these hedgerows lines are recorded on the enclosure map for Stoke Bruerne and therefore they would be regarded as important hedgerows under The Hedgerows Regulations 1997. However, a number of hedgerows in the north east have been replaced with post and wire fences, resulting in a loss of some of the area’s historic character.

2.116 The dense tree growth along the northern part of the canal corridor blocks views through to the canal from this character area.

2.119 Inspection of aerial photographs suggests that there are some remains of ridge and furrow earthworks in the west of this area, particularly around Manor Farm. Although commonly assigned to the medieval period these earthworks, which are the result of ploughing over, were created up until the early 19th century. They are a common archaeological feature but are important in providing a highly visible record of earlier ﬁeld systems and patterns of land holding that predate the modern enclosure ﬁeld system.

Historic environment character and appearance 2.117 This is an area of late parliamentary enclosure farmland (i.e. common land or open ﬁelds enclosed in the early to mid 19th century by Act of Parliament), which is currently used for a mixture of permanent and semi-permanent pasture, as well as some arable land in the north east. It is divided by long, straight hedgerows, which impose a rigid geometry although this is partly broken by the more organic lines of the long ﬁeld which runs from Mill Lane up to the disused railway line. This is a former riding, a route for horsemen, and forms part of the system of communication routes that was superseded by the roads of the Grand Junction Canal Company. The line of the footpath running along the northern edge of this area may be of similar origin.

2.120 The former Towcester and Olney Railway line forms a long, continuous belt of dense woodland growing along the northern edge of this area. The trees and undergrowth have been cut back to form a tall wall of dark green (in summer at least), which creates a stop to views to the north. The overt presence of the railway provides an important potential historic resource as a symbol of the mid/late 19th century means of wheeled transport that eventually undermined the importance of the canal network. 2.121 There are no standing buildings in this area. Key historic features • • • •

The Duke of Grafton’s model farms provide historic character to the farming landscape

Towcester and Olney Railway Line Mill Lane Riding Old hedgerows Late Parliamentary Enclosure Field System • Ridge and Furrow Earthworks

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

4c Farming landscape (modernised) east of village Location/relationship to other areas and surroundings 2.122 This character area lies to the north east of the village of Stoke Bruerne and is bordered to the north west and south by areas of farmland with a more traditional character. A bridleway from Stoke Bruerne to Roade runs along the north western boundary of this area from Rookery Lane in the south west to the A508 in the north east. Rookery Lane continues from the village to the A508 along the southern boundary of this area, whilst the A508 and the adjacent footway forms its eastern boundary. 2.123 Modern farm buildings are largely hidden from views from within the village by high hedges and tree lines. 2.124 Current ownership/management The majority of the land in this area is owned by Rookery Farm, an ‘open farm’, which provides visitors with the opportunity to see and get close to a range of farm animals and other domesticated species, including rare and exotic varieties, in a rural farm setting. A modern privately owned dwelling with some associated paddocks, stables and other outbuildings, lies in the north east corner of this area.

boundary of this area has well spaced mature hedgerow trees, mostly oak and ash. Historic environment character and appearance 2.126 The outer boundaries of this area and the boundary between the two properties are marked by well maintained mature hedgerows, which are of historic interest as remains of the parliamentary enclosure ﬁeld system. However, nearly all other traditional hedgerows within this area have been removed. The boundaries of ﬁelds marked on the enclosure map have been retained but are now marked with post and wire fences, which do not create a visual barrier along the historic boundaries. As such the area has a lost much of its historic character. 2.127 The farm buildings, farmhouse and other structures in this area are all modern structures.

Landscape setting and description 2.125 In common with character Area 4b, this area occupies the slopes and plateau of high land to the north of Stoke Bruerne and has expansive views out to the south and east, whilst the lines of woodland along the courses of the disused railway line and the canal corridor effectively screen views to the north and west. A bowl of land is formed by the slopes, which run down to Rookery Farm, which provides some enclosure for views out of this area. The hedgerow running along the north western

Loss of historic hedgerows has degraded the historic character of this area

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

4d Farming landscape (historic) south east of village Location/relationship to other areas and surroundings 2.128 This character area lies to the south east of the village of Stoke Bruerne and is bounded by the corridor of the Grand Union Canal to the west. Rookery Lane marks the northern boundary of this area, to the north of which the farmland is of slightly more modern character. The eastern boundary of this area follows the stream, which also marks the Parish boundary, in the flow of the valley to the south east of the village. The stream flows into the canal just to the south of the bottom lock. Beyond the eastern boundary the land rises again to provide enclosure to views from this character area towards the south. 2.129 The canal corridor can be accessed from this area where the A508 crosses the canal, as well as through the car park of the Navigation Inn. Both Rookery Lane and the lane to the south of the village provide access to the village from this area. 2.130 The character area is bounded with well managed hedgerows and garden boundaries of properties in the village and along the canal side, with few large tree lines along its margins. This provides opportunities for views into the area from public roadside spaces and over field gates. Current ownership/management 2.131 The land within this area includes privately owned farmland belonging to a number of rural businesses and containing a small number of agricultural buildings, as well as a small number of private houses with gardens and areas of paddocks for horses. A cricket field with club house/ pavilion, owned by Stoke Bruerne Cricket Club, lies in the north of this area, just outside the village’s boundary.

Landscape setting and description 2.132 There are no footpaths through this character area other than those running alongside the roads and one following the stream on its eastern boundary. As such, the area has only limited potential for public access but does contribute to the historic environment through the views across it from the areas to the north and west, as well as from areas outside the study area. The area contains a block of modern plantation woodland, which acts as a block to views, whilst an older line of trees, mostly willows, follows the course of a small stream through the fields to the south and east of the cricket field. 2.133 The cricket field provides a large area of publicly accessible open space and is an important village amenity, as well as contributing to the village’s ‘old England’ spirit, although it is not necessarily of particular historic interest. It also provides views down to the organic, curving boundary feature of the stream and tree line, which contrasts with the geometric boundaries of the parliamentary enclosure field system, possibly suggesting an older land division based on the natural feature. 2.134 The rise in ground level towards the east encloses views outwards from the southern part of the canal corridor and, therefore, this character area has an important role in the setting of the canal within the parish. Historic environment character and appearance 2.135 The character area is now largely used for a mixture of arable cultivation (mostly in the south east) and permanent pasture, with paddocks for horses located on the fringes of the village in the north west. A sewage works is located near the centre of the character but is hidden from view from several directions by small, modern plantations.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

2.136 The character area includes areas of late parliamentary field systems with some earlier enclosures. Significant areas of ridge and furrow earthworks are located in the west of the character area. Interestingly, the alignment of some of these earthworks corresponds closely with the enclosure fields, suggesting that the later enclosure may have adopted part of the parish’s existing system of land allotments. Many of the hedgerows in this area are recorded on the Parish enclosure map, and as such would constitute important hedgerows within the definition of The Hedgerows Regulations 1997. 2.137 Areas of modern paddocks bordering Rookery Lane in the north of the character have been divided up with modern post and rail fencing, which has an intrusive impact on the historic character.

2.138 Stoke Gap farm stands on the crest of the high ground in the north east of this area and represents another of the model farms built by the Duke of Grafton in the mid-19th century. It has recently been converted to residential use, which has ensured the long term preservation of the structures although some of the previous agricultural character of the buildings has been lost, chieﬂy through the insertion of modern casement windows. Division of the structures and the former farm yard to create a number of separate properties has also resulted in loss of some of the former relationship of the buildings to their former agricultural use and planned layout. Key historic features • Late Parliamentary Enclosure Field System • Ridge and Furrow Earthworks. • Former Stoke Gap Farm and Farmhouse

Ridge and furrow earthworks provide a reminder of historic farming practices

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

The church is the most signiďŹ cant remnant of medieval Stoke Bruerne

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

SECTION 3.0 – HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF THE STUDY AREA Village and canal Pre-nineteenth century 3.1 Although there has probably been some settlement in the Stoke Bruerne area since prehistoric times, there is little deﬁnite evidence of regular habitation before the Roman period (c. 55 BC to 450 AD). Roman coarse wares and tile were found on the western edge of the parish in 1967. More important was the discovery of a large villa near the road from Stoke and Ashton, close to the eastern boundary of the parish, which was partially excavated in the 1960s. 3.2 The Domesday Survey records the name as being “Stoche” meaning a stockaded place or fenced enclosure, and the village had a manor, a priest, a mill (worth 13s.4d.), woodland and various ranks of peasant farmers, some being free and some being serfs. 3.3 At some time in the early 13th Century the manor of “Stoche” came into the hands of one William de Bruere (or Brewer) from whom the present name of the village is derived. 3.4 During the later Middle Ages the village saw a succession of different overlords, few of whom seem to have had much interest in the village. Along with other villages in the immediate area Stoke Bruerne shows some archaeological evidence of having shrunk in size in late medieval times. This may be related to a reduction in population following plague or as a result of changes in exploitation of property by landlords. 3.5 The extensions made to the Church during the period 1450 to 1550 would indicate a rising prosperity.

3.6 Like many medieval villages in the English Midlands Stoke Bruerne was surrounded by three large open fields. These were known as Church Field, Woodfield and Ashill Field, and the subsistence farmers of early times were allocated land in each field. Additionally there was common land on the hill to the north west of the village known as Stoke Plain, and woodland known as Shaw Woods. 3.7 Unlike other Northamptonshire villages, Stoke Bruerne was not enclosed in the eighteenth century. The turnpike from Hardingstone to Old Stratford of 1768 crossed Stoke parish, but avoided the village itself. This road was comprised partly of much older tracks and partly of new construction. 3.8 Until the start of the nineteenth century farming was the mainstay of the community. Lace making was established in the eighteenth century as a means of increasing the earning power of poorer families. Even in the more prosperous mid-nineteenth century over a third of all females in Stoke were lace makers. The Grand Junction Canal (Grand Union from 1929) 3.9 The Grand Junction Canal was developed to overcome the shortcomings of the existing canal route from the Midlands to London via Banbury and Oxford to the Thames, which had been completed in 1790 but was proving inadequate to deal with the volume of potential trade. 3.10 The Grand Junction promised a broad and direct route from Braunston, on the Oxford Canal, to the Thames at Brentford with a branch to Paddington. As planned, it was necessary for the canal to cross the range of hills which

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

separate the Nene and Ouse valleys. The narrowest point of crossing lay between Stoke Bruerne and Blisworth, which was consequently chosen as the place to excavate a tunnel for the canal. With the coming of the Grand Junction Canal, Stoke Bruerne attained an important place on the canal system, which it has maintained to the present day. 3.11 A flight of seven locks was designed to carry the canal down into the Tove and Ouse valleys and, as the little valley in which Stoke Bruerne sits is a suitable route for the canal, Stoke Bruerne became one of the few villages in the country where a canal was carried through the village centre. The canal changed the geography of the village by cutting through and truncating the old village street and the Rector’s fishponds. It also dried up the old watermill, brought in cheap slates, glass, coal and ironware, created new employment and encouraged new industries. 3.12 Largely as a result of the geological formation of Blisworth Hill, the initial construction of the tunnel encountered significant setbacks. To begin with tunnelling was relatively simple as the labourers drove into clay. However, some thousand yards from either end the line of the tunnel pierced a layer of pervious and water-logged rock. The work on the tunnel, which had begun in late 1793, was halted in 1796. The Company’s minute books ascribe the failure to excessive water entering the workings, an unsatisfactory arch form, and poor materials. 3.13 An alternative plan to cross the hill using a series of 29 locks with two steam pumps to maintain water supplies was rejected as a result of the high potential running costs. However, James Barnes, the chief engineer for the Grand Junction Canal Company, backed by the eminent civil engineers, John Rennie and Robert Whitworth, proposed a second tunnel

The 19th century Navigation Inn overlooks the canal, reﬂecting the economic importance of the canal to the village

on a different alignment. Barnes then concentrated efforts on draining the hill by means of drainage headings driven into the rock and running into existing streams at Blisworth and Stoke Bruerne. During this hiatus the canal reached Blisworth from Braunston in September 1796 and the Company concentrated on the completion of its line from London to Stoke Bruerne. 3.14 At first the Canal Company joined the separate halves of its canal with a toll road over Blisworth Hill. The hill was steep and the connecting lanes were unsurfaced. As the canal from London drew closer, an iron railway was proposed by William Jessop, the consulting engineer, as a stopgap measure to join the two halves of the canal. 3.15 By October 1800 the canal had reached the foot of the proposed Stoke Bruerne locks and a large temporary transhipment basin was constructed. The railway was under construction and was finished by Christmas of that year. It was what is technically known as a “plateway”, with “L”-shaped cast iron rails mounted on stone blocks, held to gauge mainly by weight. The wagons had flangeless wheels, the flange being on the rail. Power was by means of horses that walked between the stone blocks. The cast iron rails finished just in front of the transhipping area allowing the wagons to be moved about at

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

For some time the eastern side of the canal was not used for building and remained as orchard or garden ground. After 1821 the Sheppard family, who owned part of the land close to the new bridge below top lock, built a new public house, which they named “the Navigation”, on land between the canal and Green Lane. 3.18 The village street was diverted from its original line, which ran along Chapel Lane to the Green, to a course over the new canal bridge below the top lock.

The former plateway is now a pleasant wooded walk

will without the restriction of rails. Despite the crudeness of its construction it was an important step forward in transport technology and was the first iron railway to be built in southern England. As a result of its construction, from 1800 until 1805, the basin adjoining Bottom Lock was one of the busiest inland ports in the Kingdom. 3.16 Work began on driving a new tunnel in 1802 once Barnes was satisfied that the hill had been sufficiently drained. New shafts were sunk on an amended line and proceeded fairly smoothly. In February 1805 the nearly completed tunnel was inspected by Thomas Telford. 3.17 The tunnel and locks were opened with great ceremony on 25th March 1805. Houses sprang up on the western side of the canal in what had once been George Tite’s home close. One of these eventually became “the Boat Inn”, which was probably the last building in Stoke Bruerne built with a thatched roof. The lockkeeper’s house and Wharf Cottage were probably among the first built with slated roofs, the slates being brought by canal from North Wales.

3.19 From 1805 until the late 1830s the canal enjoyed a period of prosperity and use. However, in 1838 the London and Birmingham Railway was opened. Many canals were taken over by railways and by the 1870s rural canals were falling on hard times. During the 1850s steamers were introduced to supersede horse boats and in 1871 steam tugs were introduced to speed the movement of boats through the tunnel. 3.20 Although the new industrial enterprises did not long outlive the nineteenth century, they brought a degree of prosperity, as did ironstone quarrying, which was carried out in the Showsley, Tiffield and Blisworth areas. An agricultural depression set in during the last years of the century, but the canal compensated for this by providing comparatively well paid jobs. 3.21 A trend in local farming turning to dairying and grazing was apparent in the late 19th century, for which the increased speed of transport by rail was of positive benefit. The supply of meat and hides was also important to the growing town of Northampton, whilst milk could be sent daily from Roade station to London and other cities. The nineteenth century closed with the local economy in relatively good shape, although the population figures for Stoke Bruerne show a decline from a peak of 469 persons living in 101 houses in 1851 falling to 438 persons in 102 houses by 1901.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

The old railway station provides a prominent relic of the age of steam in Stoke Bruerne

The Twentieth Century

The Leggers Hut

3.22 A further perceptible decline in Stoke Bruerne’s population set in during the early twentieth century, with Stoke’s population falling in 1911 to only 331 in 96 houses. The period of decline was hastened by the First World War (1914-1918). Farming saw a brief period of prosperity during the war, although this was only an interval in the otherwise continuing depression. 3.23 The Grafton Estates in Stoke Bruerne and Shutlanger were sold by auction in 1920; the brickworks closed soon after. Horse trafﬁc on the canal declined, whilst both canals and railways were affected by the increased use of roads for transport. However, the canal did remain busy with trade under the management of the Grand Union Canal Company (the successor to the Grand Junction in 1929), although the trade was long distance, not locally based. 3.24 A prominent resident of Stoke Bruerne during this era was Sister Mary Ward, who lived in the large house by Top Lock, once the mill manager’s house. For over 40 years until her retirement in 1962 she devotedly nursed the people of the canal boats.

3.25 In 1944 an Ealing Studios ﬁlm “Painted Boats” was made using Stoke and other places as locations, and the background shots display a somewhat neglected-looking village scene. The alltime population low was reached in 1951, when the Census recorded 229 inhabitants (less than half that of a century before) living in 76 houses. During the second half of the 20th century, a small estate of council houses was built at Wentworth Way. Farming recovered, but became increasingly mechanised and, as a result, the numbers employed on farms continued to fall. 3.26 In the 1930s a few tourists had begun to visit Stoke Bruerne, attracted by the combination of locks, cottages, pub and passing boats, which still represent the village’s main attractions today. During the late 1940s and early 1950s the then lockkeeper, Jack James made sterling efforts to smarten up the canal side. He also began displaying items of canal memorabilia in the lockkeeper’s hut where once leggers had waited to “leg” horse boats through the tunnel.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

The old steam mill had been long empty, so Mr. James and Charles Hadlow, a canal engineer based at nearby Gayton Junction, persuaded the British Transport Commission, who had now succeeded the Grand Union, to set up a home for canal bygones in the building. This became the Waterways Museum, opened in 1963, which is now the National Waterways Museum. In the early years of the Museum a certain amount of friction developed between British Waterways, who operated the Museum as well as the canal, and village people. The Museum was blamed for attracting crowds to the village but for not providing adequate parking facilities. 3.27 The closure of Blisworth tunnel for ﬁve years from 1979 to 1984 demonstrated how important the canal was to the village economy. Although visitor numbers remained buoyant during these years, the burgeoning tourist trade was badly affected. In 1996 Home Farm was reopened as a public house under its old name “the Navigation”. The Museum was taken over from British Waterways in 1999 by The Waterways Trust. 3.28 The Boat Inn has been in the hands of the Woodward family since 1877 and has developed a restaurant and tea rooms. A restaurant, named ‘Locks Restaurant’ has opened in the building which formerly housed Sister Mary Ward’s shop and home, whilst tripping boats have been introduced and a different sort of prosperity has returned to the canal. While it has developed as a small centre for tourism, Stoke Bruerne has retained a very strong community spirit whilst the population ﬁgures and numbers of households has continued to rise steadily since 1951, and in 2001 stood at 398 inhabitants. The village has not increased in size since 2001.

Stoke Park‘s Historical Development 3.29 During the fifteenth century the local family of Woodville rose to prominence, acquiring several manors in Cleley Hundred. Their rising power culminated with the marriage of Elizabeth Woodville to Edward IV in 1466, following which her father, Richard Woodville, was raised to an Earldom. 3.30 During the 16th century the Woodville lands acquired considerable national significance. The local royal estates were combined into one unit during the reign of Henry VIII, known as the Honor of Grafton. Henry also authorised the creation of Stoke Park to ensure a supply of deer for hunting. Henry favoured the Grafton lands and conducted official business from Grafton House. 3.31 In 1629 Charles I granted Stoke Park to Sir Francis Crane in lieu of settling a mortgage to him of the Honor of Grafton. The estate then included 405 acres of land, meadow and wood enclosed within the park fence, and 1 acre of meadow outside. The grant included all the deer in the park. Sir Francis had established a tapestry manufactory at Mortlake, west of London and had risen high in the Royal estimation. He built Stoke Park House, possibly with the assistance of the Royal Architect, Inigo Jones, between 1630 and 1636, in which year he was visited there by Charles I and Queen Henrietta Maria. The house was a very early, if not the very first, example of Palladian architecture to be used for an English country house. Sir Francis died soon after and his widow, who had a life interest in the Park, lived on and stoutly defended Grafton House for the King against the Parliamentarians in the Civil War. Sir Francis’s brother Richard inherited Stoke Park and following his death the property passed to his nephew Francis Arundel. Later Stoke Park came into the hands of the Wentworth-Vernon family.

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3.32 Today, only two pavilions and an outbuilding remain of the original house, which was otherwise destroyed by fire in the late nineteenth century. The pavilions were incorporated into a new house built to a highly contrasting Neo-Jacobean style. 3.33 Bertie Wentworth Vernon and his wife Isabella, made Stoke Park their principal home until both died in 1916, fulfilling the role of a resident squire and his lady in a village which had previously generally lacked such figures. The present Village Hall was built by them in Church Lane as a reading room and assembly hall and they also presented the village with a Recreation Field. During the Second World War the mansion and grounds were requisitioned by the Army. When the remains of the estate were sold in 1954 the buildings were in poor condition and have been substantially restored over the past years by the current owner. Some of the former stables and other service buildings to the rear are now occupied separately as private residences.

Note: The material in this section is almost wholly based on the published and unpublished research and writings of David Blagrove, local historian and resident of Stoke Bruerne, for which many thanks. References are given in the Bibliography. Some items can be purchased in the Museum.

The Colonade of Blisworth ironstone, Stoke Park

The Garden Terrace, Stoke Park

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

SECTION 4.0 – ASSESSMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE 4.1 This section of the document assesses the significance of the four distinct character areas within the study area i.e. Stoke Bruerne village, canal corridor, Stoke Park and farmland surrounding the village. 4.2 The aim is primarily to set out the overall significance of each area taking into account not only each area’s architectural, archaeological and historical significance but also other aspects including landscape, social, economic and cultural significance. 4.3 The whole of the study area has been designated by Northamptonshire County Council as a ‘Special Landscape Area’ in recognition of its particularly high landscape value (see Map 1). The criteria for appraisal were based on factors such as tree cover, topography and landscape features. The study area lies within the Tove Valley Special Landscape Area which includes the parkland areas of East Neston and Stoke Park and an area based on the Grand Union Canal. 4.4 The significance of individual key features and their contribution to the overall significance of the area is assessed in detail in the Gazetteer.

4.6 The presence of the canal has elevated the significance of the village to one of national and regional importance. Stoke Bruerne is one of the most important locations on the inland waterways containing the National Waterways Museum and many canal-related features of interest within walking distance of the village centre. The village provides physical evidence of early canal building and engineering, a transport method introduced in the late 18th century that made a vital contribution to the Industrial Revolution. Canal and village display the architectural, social and economic changes brought about by the extra-ordinary occurrence of a village split in two by a canal. 4.7 The architectural and historic interest of Stoke Bruerne is attested by its status as a conservation area. A conservation area is defined in the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 as ‘an area of special architectural or historic interest, the character or appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance’ and more than 9,100 have been designated. Stoke Bruerne Conservation Area has national historic significance.

Character Area 1 Stoke Bruerne Village: assessment of signiﬁcance 4.5 Until the coming of the canal at the end of the eighteenth century, Stoke Bruerne had little to distinguish it from other South Northamptonshire villages in the same area, apart from the Church of St Mary and Stoke Park. The construction of the canal, its tunnel and associated locks and the subsequent operation of the canal has given Stoke Bruerne its unique character. The location of the National Waterways Museum in the village in 1963 has both complemented and emphasised this special historic interest.

Canalside buildings in the village centre

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

4.8 The conservation area has been drawn tightly around the historic core of the village but, notably, does not include the church or several other historic buildings. In brief, the special interest that justiﬁes designation of Stoke Bruerne Conservation Area is: • Historic medieval street pattern realigned in the late 18th century to accommodate the construction of the Grand Junction Canal; • Good examples of vernacular limestone cottages from the 17th and 18th centuries, some thatched; • The Green, a grassy open space complemented by mature trees and a focal point in the village, and a smaller green at the junction of Rookery Lane, Mill Lane and Chapel Lane; • The architecture and engineering of the Grand Junction Canal; • Ensemble of historic canal-side buildings built within the core of the medieval village after the construction of the canal, typically red brick with slate roofs; • Rookery Farmhouse (early 19th century) and farm buildings (c.1840) which comprise a model farm yard similar to those of a group of model farms built 1839-44 for the 4th Duke of Grafton as part of an extensive programme of agricultural improvement; • Signiﬁcant views along the canal and out to open countryside; • Mature trees which contribute to the area’s setting.

• Rookery Farmhouse, Bridge Road (Grade II) • Farm buildings enclosing 3 sides of yard opposite Rookery Cottage, Bridge Road (Grade II) • Chest tomb in angle approximately 1 metre east of south aisle of Church of St Mary (Grade II) • Headstone approximately 11 metres south of southwest angle of south aisle of Church of St Mary (Grade II) • Waterways Museum, Grand Union Canal (Grade II) • Boat Inn, Grand Union Canal (Grade II) • Canal Cottage, Grand Union Canal (Grade II) • Lock No. 14 Stoke Top Lock including weighing machine and dry dock (Grade II) • Lock No. 15 (Grade II) • Bridge No. 53 (Grade II) 4.10 The Church of St Mary the Virgin (14th and 15th century, restored 1853) is listed grade II*. It is located in a prominent hilltop site, probably on an earlier pagan site. Buildings of Grade I and II* constitute together around 6% of listed buildings in England and are considered to be “outstanding architectural or historic interest”. 4.11 The architectural and historic interest of a number of historic buildings in the village has served as justiﬁcation for South Northamptonshire Council to issue an Article 4 (2) Direction by means of which

4.9 The village contains 16 listed buildings, 5 of which are related to the canal. These are: • Church of St Mary the Virgin, Church Lane (Grade II*) • The Welland, Mill Lane (Grade II) • The Dower House, The Green (Grade II) • Rosebud Cottage, the Green (Grade II) • Hoperidge Cottage, The Green (Grade II) • Rookery Cottage, Bridge Road (Grade II) Stoke Bruerne Village

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

permitted development rights are restricted. Tighter planning control over development is now in force on these dwellings. The aim of an Article 4(2) Direction is to encourage the retention of high quality architectural features on buildings and to preserve and enhance the conservation area of which they are part. These properties are identiﬁed in Map 3. Map 3 also indicates ‘positive buildings’ i.e. those that make a positive contribution to the special historic character and appearance of the village. 4.12 There are no Scheduled Monuments in the village. The village is probably of Anglo-Saxon origin and preserves elements of a medieval street pattern including the surviving standing structure of St Mary’s Church. 4.13 Subsequent post-medieval occupation will have caused disturbance and truncation of medieval sub surface archaeological remains which would be of local and regional importance. Remains of post-medieval occupation up to the construction of the canal would rate as of local importance. 4.14 As noted, Stoke Bruerne is highly signiﬁcant for its association with the history of the canal era. It is unique in England in having a canal passing through its historic core as opposed to bypassing it around the edge. The changes brought about by the arrival of the canal are discussed in Section 3 – Historical Development.

The National Waterways Museum

4.15 The significance of individual key features and their contribution to the overall significance of the area is assessed in detail in the Gazetteer. Of particular note are the infilled Mill Dock, the Waterways Museum and Stoke Top Lock. 4.16 The village contains the National Waterways Museum operated by The Waterways Trust, one of three Waterways Museums (the others are at Gloucester Docks and Ellesmere Port). The collection as a whole is a unique national asset and has been designated as being of national importance. It dates from the beginning of canal building in the second half of the eighteenth century to the present day, providing a vital resource helping reconnect people with their past. 4.17 At Stoke Bruerne, working models, videos, pictorial and three dimensional displays bring to life the unique 200 year old story of the English waterway transport system. The Museum is complemented by the living canal immediately outside and the close proximity of many canal related features. Features including the duplicate locks, former wharfs, flight of locks, Blisworth Tunnel and the site of the historic plateway are all within walking distance and provide excellent surviving evidence of the technological and social developments during the canal age. From the plateway wharf in the south to Blisworth Hill in the north the canalside constitutes one large ‘living museum’ of the development of one of the UK’s most notable canals. 4.18 The presence of the National Waterways Museum and the exceptionally picturesque nature of canal and rural village make Stoke Bruerne a popular regional visitor attraction. Visitor Survey findings conducted by British Waterways in 2006 indicate that Stoke Bruerne has a draw mainly from Buckinghamshire and Northamptonshire areas with just over one third of interviewees travelling 30 minutes or less to visit the site. However, the majority travelled for more than one hour.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Character Area 2 The Canal Corridor: assessment of significance 4.19 At the end of the 18th century, the successful attempt to construct a canal entrepreneurs of the industrial revolution through the range of hills which separate saw the potential of inland waterways for the Nene and Ouse valleys, necessitating transporting goods cheaply and efficiently a flight of 7 locks, a 3,076 yard long tunnel throughout Britain. They developed an and an early form of railway (to carry goods inland waterway network linking mines and before the completion of the tunnel). quarries with factories, mills, markets and 4.22 A brief history of the construction of deepwater ports. This network of manthe canal through Stoke Bruerne is provided made canals and navigable rivers was one in Section 3 – Historical Development. of the drivers of the Industrial Revolution and has international significance. 4.23 The significance of individual key features and their contribution to the overall 4.20 The Grand Union Canal (formerly significance of the area is assessed in detail Grand Junction Canal), which passes in the Gazetteer. Of particular note in this through Stoke Bruerne, was London’s area are Blisworth Tunnel, the plateway and principal link with the rest of the UK’s canal the site of the quarry railway and loading system and was, and remains, of national wharf. importance. Although the somewhat circuitous route to Birmingham via the river 4.24 The construction of the canal and Thames and the Oxford Canal came first, it its embankment is likely to have had a was the Grand Junction Canal which really provided the transport infrastructure to bring significant impact on the preservation of any subsurface archaeological remains of goods from the industrial conurbations earlier date within the area. However, the of the north and midlands to the capital. structures of the canal and its surrounding The famous canal engineer William infrastructure, including the locks, infilled Jessop played a superintendent role as canal basin and the road bridge have Chief Engineer, with James Barnes as archaeological potential relating to their the engineer responsible for most of the construction and subsequent use. The construction work. course and structures of the canal would rate as nationally important archaeological 4.21 The significance of the canal through remains. Stoke Bruerne, in terms of its architecture, archaeology and engineering, derives from 4.25 The exceptional interest of the canal the, sometimes troubled, history of the corridor lies in the fact that, despite the passing of 200 years, much of the built heritage noted above survives, generally in good condition, thereby providing a visible record of the development of the canal system. Where historic features no longer exist, the plateway for example, archaeological potential still exists as the sites in question have not been developed.

South portal to the Blisworth Tunnel

4.26 Not only does much of the canal’s built heritage survive but the general public can view the features from the canal towpath and elsewhere. The presence

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

4.28 The following buildings within this character area are listed: • South portal of Blisworth Tunnel, Grand Union Canal (Grade II) • Locks number 16-20 inclusive, Grand Union Canal (Grade II) • Cottages number 140 and 141, Grand Union Canal (Grade II) • Farm buildings at Lower Lock Farm (Grade II) 4.29 The canal has a signiﬁcant impact on the local economy. A short study of the village (David Blagrove, May 2007) estimates that in the summer of 2006, “some 110 jobs (35 of them full time) were physically based on the canal side and thus dependent on the canal for their existence. A further 18 were largely dependent upon the attraction of the canal”. The same study also points out that during the closure of the Blisworth Tunnel between 1980 and 1984 considerable numbers of employees were laid off in local enterprises.

The canal locks punctuate walks along its corridor

of the National Waterways Museum (see Gazetteer) provides additional support to the educational value of the canal corridor. The Waterways Trust is a partner with Wild over Waterways, an educational scheme designed to reach out to young people with the message that the waterways are a dynamic and integral part of our nation’s heritage and infrastructure. 4.27 The canal is an important national inland navigation route and its towpath accommodates a vital telecommunications link.. The towpaths are frequented by birdwatchers, anglers, walkers and cyclists and the canal is a major artery of the waterways network linking London with Birmingham, Leicester, Nottingham and the north of England.

4.30 The former brickworks and clay pit, which lies just to the south of the village and adjacent to the canal is managed by The Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire, as a nature reserve. The site has considerable variety, with a reed bed, rough and damp grassland, a number of ponds and the redundant side arm of the canal. As well as a variety of plant life, the ponds provide an important habitat for invertebrates, and a number of dragonﬂy species occur on the reserve. White-legged damselﬂies have been recorded here, a species which has a very limited distribution in Northamptonshire.

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Character Area 3 Stoke Park: assessment of significance 4.31 Stoke Park and the buildings contained therein have national significance. Stoke Park is listed grade II in English Heritage’s ‘Register of parks and gardens of special historic interest in England’. The site contains nine listed buildings, two of which are grade II* (of “outstanding architectural or historic interest”). 4.32 The ‘Register of parks and gardens of special historic interest in England’ provides an accurate and authoritative inventory of the most important historic parks and gardens in England. There are currently nearly 1450 sites included on the Register divided into three grade bands to give added guidance on their significance. The majority of the sites identified through the Register as being of a sufficiently high level of interest to merit a national designation, are designated grade II. 4.33 The Park comprises a formal garden and wooded pleasure grounds of c 3.6 hectares. The garden is based on a 17th century layout with 19th century additions. The garden has a terraced lawn with herbaceous borders, herb garden, fountain and pool. The trees in the park were planted in the battle formation of the Battle of Waterloo, though many have now gone. The park is occasionally open to the public. 4.34 A brief history of Stoke Park and environs is provided in Section 3 – Historical Development. The significance of individual key features and their contribution to the overall significance of the area is assessed in detail in the Gazetteer. Of particular note in this area are the listed buildings and Stoke Park itself.

4.35 The listed buildings within Stoke Park are: • East pavilion and attached quadrant colonnade (Grade II*) • West pavilion and attached quadrant colonnade (Grade II*) • Wall between colonnades of east and west pavilions (Grade II) • Terrace wall between east and west pavilions (Grade II) • Pool and fountain head on lower garden terrace (Grade II) • Wall, terminating east end of lower garden terrace (Grade II) • Coach House (Grade II) • Dovecote and attached stabling (Grade II) 4.36 The house was built by Sir Francis Crane, head of the Mortlake Tapestry Works, in 1629-35. Nikolaus Pevsner, architectural historian, says in the Northamptonshire edition of the Building of England series, “Stoke Park is the earliest house in England on the plan of Palladio’s villas with a central corps-delogis connected to quadrant colonnades to end pavilions.” It has been suggested that Inigo Jones may have had a hand in the design though this claim has not been substantiated. The east pavilion formerly housed a chapel and the west pavilion was the library. The pavilions formed a tri-partite composition with a central house that was destroyed by ﬁre in 1886. This was replaced by a large addition in Jacobean style attached to the rear of the east pavilion, now demolished as part of 20th century restoration.

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Character Area 4 Farmland surrounding village: assessment of significance 4.37 As with the majority of land in the study area the farmland surrounding the village and flanking the canal corridor lies within the Tove Valley Special Landscape Area and is protected by policies in the adopted South Northamptonshire Local Plan (adopted September 2007). 4.38 It includes a number of listed buildings, including the structures of two of the model farms built on the Duke of Grafton’s estate in the mid 19th century, which area all listed Grade II. These buildings and their settings are protected through national and local planning policy and guidance and rate as of, at least, regional significance. 4.39 Listed buildings within this area are: • Stoke Gap Lodge (grade II); • Stoke Gap Lodge Farm, farm buildings enclosing 3 sides to rear of farmhouse (grade II); • Stoke Plain Farm (grade II); • Stoke Plain Farm, farm buildings enclosing 3 sides of yard to rear of farmhouse (grade II); 4.40 The farmland surrounding the village also makes a positive contribution to the setting the Stoke Bruerne Conservation Area, particularly in views towards the village from the south and east. In addition, it contributes to the setting of the registered park and garden at Stoke Park. 4.41 The farmland contains areas of late parliamentary enclosure farmland which takes its structure from hedgerows laid out on the alignments of land divisions established through an Act of Parliament of 1844. As such these hedgerows would be considered to fall within the definition of important hedgerows as set out in The Hedgerows Regulations 1997.

4.42 This area also contains upstanding ridge and furrow earthworks representing an earlier phase of agricultural activity, prior to the establishment of the enclosure field system. These are generally regarded as common archaeological remains of no more than local interest, although as part of the wider historic landscape of Stoke Bruerne Parish, they might rate more highly. 4.43 The area contains several recorded sites of archaeological remains relating to Roman activity. The site of a Roman villa, which has been designated as a Scheduled Monument lies just to the east of the study area whilst another site of recorded Roman remains is recorded within the village. There is a reasonably high probability of further remains of Roman occupation and associated activities within the farmland area, which, depending on their condition, might range in importance from local to national significance. 4.44 The line of the disused Towcester to Olney Railway is a significant landscape feature, incorporating a number of historic structures and buildings. It lies outside the Special Landscape Area but would rate as of regional importance as an archaeological monument. 4.45 The significance of individual key features and their contribution to the overall significance of the area is assessed in detail in the Gazetteer. Of particular note in this area are Stoke Gap and Stoke Plain farms.

The Ride, a historic route from Mill Lane to the Towcester to Olney Railway

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SECTION 5.0 – ASSESSING ISSUES AND VULNERABILITIES 5.1 This section of the Plan takes an independent view of factors affecting the significance of the site (as identified in Section 3) now, in the past, and in the future. Vulnerabilities and issues are identified for each character area. This section of the Plan also addresses any opportunities for enhancing the significance of the site. 5.2 The vulnerabilities and issues regarding specific buildings and structures are assessed in the Gazetteer at Appendix 1. Of particular note are the National Waterways Museum, the dry lock next to Lock 14, the former Mill Dock next to the Museum and the ‘quarry field’ to the north of the village.

Character Area 1 Stoke Bruerne Village: assessment of issues 5.3 National Waterways Museum: Numbers of visitors to the museum have been falling for several years. Provision of a cafe, a larger area for the shop, some new exhibits and an audio trail have improved the Museum’s attraction but if numbers of visitors continue to fall this may not be sufficient to support the maintenance of the collection in Stoke Bruerne. 5.4 Traffic management: Stoke Bruerne is readily accessible from major roads such as the M1, A5, A508 and A43. Although there is a 30 mph speed limit within the village, it is evident that some vehicles drive at high speed through the village endangering pedestrians and other drivers. The village is used as a morning and evening ‘rat run’ between the A508 and Blisworth/Northampton. Whilst the narrowness of the bridge over the canal serves to restrict traffic speeds, it is also the cause of congestion, especially with regard to large vehicles.

5.5 Parking: The high number of visitors to the village, mainly to enjoy the canal, has created parking problems and difficulties for the local community through a restriction of residents’ parking spaces and obstruction caused by poorly parked cars. To a certain extent this has been relieved by the opening of Church Field for car parking, signage for which is currently low key. Northamptonshire County Council has also introduced a permit parking system for residents without off road parking facilities, although this does not guarantee the availability of parking spaces in the immediate vicinity of their property. A number of fields surrounding the village have also been used for temporary car parking when necessary. Other areas of limited parking are located at the southern end of the canal corridor and are accessed directly from the A508. 5.6 The pay-to-park car park to the rear of the museum, which is owned by British Waterways but leased to The Waterways Trust, is currently in a poor condition. At the time of writing (October 2007) the hard surfacing was in need of repair and replacement, whilst the inconsistent boundary materials made a poor impression. Access from the car park directly to the canalside by the museum is not compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act 2005 (DDA) because of the archaeological importance of the embankment which contains the former Mill Dock. There is a ramped approach to the canalside which, although it is helpful to the less mobile, does not strictly conform to the DDA. 5.7 Traffic arriving at, and leaving the museum car park causes disturbance to residents, particularly at busy times, such as holidays, and detracts generally from the amenity of the area, it does not currently have protected parking areas for disabled car users or for coaches.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

5.8 The current lack of clear signage to those arriving by car is another issue surrounding car parking. Given the availability of sufficient parking, the better management of traffic through signage may be key to resolving difficulties over car parking. Directional signage should also take account of disabled parking provision and coach-parking. 5.9 Condition of buildings and structures: The grade II listed dry lock next to Lock 14 is in need of repair. Otherwise, the state of repair and general condition of buildings and structures within the village is good but there are minor instances of buildings, including boundary walls, in need of routine maintenance and repair.

hazard to pedestrians. External lighting can cause problems especially where overbright or poorly directed lighting affects neighbouring property. 5.13 Visitor management; The inﬂux of many ‘tourist’ visitors, attracted by the charm of the village and canal, brings threats to the village community in terms of, for example, trafﬁc and parking issues and added demands on local facilities. Discussions during the preliminary public consultation suggest a small undercurrent of feeling amongst villagers that visitors take without giving anything back to the community. Against this must be balanced the employment opportunities created by the village’s canalside location and visitors’ contribution to the local economy.

5.10 Loss of original architectural details and building materials: Some of the unlisted buildings in the conservation area have been adversely affected by the replacement of original timber sash windows or doors with uPVC or aluminium, the replacement of natural clay tiles with concrete tiles or the painting of originally exposed brick- or stone-work. In some cases, the removal of architectural features such as chimneys has spoiled the external appearance of a building and the local streetscape. 5.11 Design of new development: Some modern developments, including house extensions, built within the last 50 years are out of character with the prevailing historic character and appearance of the village. A prime example is the extension to the Boat Inn which, while providing excellent facilities, is out of harmony with the vernacular of neighbouring canalside building. 5.12 Signage and lighting: The garish colours and large size of some advertising and promotional signage on the canalside is not always in keeping with the historic character of the area. A-boards can be a

This Grade ll listed lock is in need of signiﬁcant repair and maintenance

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5.14 So long as the canal retains its attraction, visitors will come to Stoke Bruerne. However it is vital to ensure that visitors are sensitively managed in order to maintain the correct balance between the village as a place to live and the village as a place to visit. A good relationship between villagers and tourists is essential to the future well-being of Stoke Bruerne. 5.15 Pedestrian signage: Signage for visitors is required to signify safe routes to the canalside area from car parks and around the village. These is also a need to make links between the various facilities within the wider area (e.g. Rookery Open Farm, Stoke Park) and to reinforce the role of the Museum as a central location from which to explore the wider area with the assistance of historical interpretation. 5.16 There is therefore a need to identify areas for villagers to which tourists are not directed, as well as areas of open space that can be used by tourists without creating undue interruption to the lives of local residents. 5.17 Other facilities required by visitors are public lavatories and recreational facilities for younger children. The lavatories at the National Waterways Museum are not considered to be in very good condition and have limited opening times. There is a lack of play facilities within the central area of the village. The Parish Council do maintain a good locally equipped play area in the recreation ground to the north west of the village, although this is primarily intended for the use of local residents. 5.18 Open space: The study area contains signiďŹ cant private and public open spaces. Within the village these are the three village greens, the graveyard, and some spacious private gardens.

At busy times there is pressure on the available open space

5.19 Open space immediately beside the canal, i.e. canal towpath, grassed-over former Mill basin and duplicate locks, is used primarily for recreational purposes. The grassed area of the former Mill Dock is a popular spot for picnics and, as such, is an important visitor facility that adds considerably to the attraction of the area. In summertime, further picnic areas would be desirable. 5.20 Employment: Canal activities provide local employment. A reduction in the number of visitors to the village, for whatever reason, would have an adverse effect on the local economy. 5.21 Conservation area: Stoke Bruerne is a place of special architectural and historic interest and fully merits its designation as a conservation area, a designation that brings additional planning controls. The ďŹ ndings of this report, in particular the architectural and historic value of the buildings at Yew Cottage, The Old Bakery and The Cottage, Bakers Lane, suggest that there is a need for a full boundary review.

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5.22 Interpretation: The study area, in particular the canal, contains signiﬁcant buildings and artefacts, many of which are easily accessible to the public, which illustrate the area’s interesting historical development. The Museum’s audio trail and written publications available in the Museum shop assist in interpretation, although the audio trail is considered to be somewhat outdated and is in need of review. However, it does represent an excellent means of providing a signiﬁcant amount of information without requiring a large number of intrusive information boards.

and cannot be expected to be a permanent element in the landscape. As the trees grow old they will certainly need to be felled for reasons of public safety, unless they have already come down. The future of the trees and any replacement is therefore a live issue that will require consultation with the local community as well as technical and safety considerations. Any plans to replace the poplar trees should include consideration of the desirability of preserving subsurface archaeological remains of the mill dock and future interpretation or use of this structure. Other issues

5.23 The Stoke Bruerne Canal Partnership has already identiﬁed a number of locations for interpretation signs. A complete interpretation boards and leaﬂet package has been costed by the Partnership and is ready for implementation. 5.24 Whilst there is a low level of onsite interpretation of certain features, notably the illustrative panels beside the plateway and former brickworks (nature reserve), there is a notable lack of other on-site interpretation. Provision of very detailed information boards is likely to create a visually intrusive impact on the environment of the canalside, although visual representations of past views of the canal, with some textual support, would be of value in concert with an updated audio trail. Visitors may not be aware that additional information is available from the Museum and its shop.

5.26 Specific enhancement suggestions arising from public consultation are: encouragement of floral displays, provision of dog waste bins, improvement of poor pedestrian pathway between Rookery Farm and canal, control of litter by canal. Some boaters would like to see the re-instatement of the flag which used to fly on the flagpole situated between Lock 14 and the dry lock alongside and the addition of similar features.

5.25 Canalside poplar trees adjacent to the Museum: The canalside poplar trees beside the Museum were planted in 1963. Of the original six trees, only four remain. In the recent gales several large branches were blown down and they may soon become a matter of public danger. Although they are presently a signiﬁcant landscape feature within the village, these trees, like all trees, have a limited lifespan

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5.28 Vacant and under-used buildings: There are four canalside buildings that are currently vacant: the upper and lower stables, the tug store and the leggers’ hut. It might also be argued that the Waterways Museum is not reaching its potential and is underused. Buildings without a use are liable to fall into disrepair and suffer from vandalism and grafﬁti, as has happened to the tug store. On the other hand, buildings that are visibly and robustly secure against entry can look forbidding and unattractive e.g. the tug store.

of provision and are currently improving the number of moorings. 5.30 Facilities for passing canal users: There is a lack of good facilities for boaters stopping at Stoke Bruerne. There is a shop within the Boat Inn which whilst small, provides some very basic grocery supplies. Many boaters and villagers are unaware of its existence and consequently it is underused. There is potential for expanding the services it offers and some marketing should result in an increase of customers especially if coupled with some investment to increase stock levels and variety of goods available. A leaﬂet or signboard giving boat visitors basic information on the village, its amenities, bus services to nearby towns with shopping facilities, doctors surgeries, hospitals, dentists, taxi companies, etc would be useful and could be funded by advertising from local businesses. Limited boating supplies such as gas bottles are available from The Boat Inn PH and coal, diesel, oil and grease are available from The Wharf when NB Jubilee is present.

5.29 Lack of moorings: There is pressure on the available mooring places around the village’s canalside area from residents, local businesses and local canal users. British Waterways has undertaken a review

5.31 There are currently no sanitary disposal facilities at Stoke Bruerne and the high number of visiting boats and presence of permanently moored boats could warrant such provision.

The former stable buildings and adjacent ‘tug store’ are vacant and under used

5.32 There are recycling bins at the rear of The Boat Inn which are accessible to boaters through an unmarked door adjacent to the water point. It is not clear if these are intended as public amenity or for the use of boaters but they are used by local boaters and villagers who are aware of them and would beneﬁt from signage to enable visiting boaters to recycle waste. The recycling facilities previously provided by BW at sanitary stations in this area have been suspended and boaters are currently unable to recycle waste. The re-instatement of these facilities, or new facilities in Stoke Bruerne and/or at the sanitary station below Lock 20 would be widely welcomed by boaters.

Character Area 2 The Canal Corridor: assessment of issues 5.27 Waterside safety: The installation of a footbridge across the canal beside the road bridge has considerably improved safe access around the canal in the village centre. Consideration should be given to installing some kind of separation at locks to enable safe operation of locks by boat crews without endangering the public.

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5.33 Environmental management of canal banks: Some planning for the management and maintenance of the eastern side of the southern length of the canal in particular is advisable. Ideally this should identify suitable sites for ‘rough’ wildlife friendly edges and well maintained grassed areas running up to the canal’s edge and make for provision for larger hedgerow trees that will provide some sense of enclosure without creating signiﬁcant screening of views. Maintaining hedgerows to a suitable height to allow views out of the southern part of the canal to the wider landscape should also form a consideration in balance with conservation requirements.

5.37 Intrusion of modern farm buildings: Modern farm buildings which are out of character and out of scale with the historic designed landscape are beginning to encroach upon the setting of the registered garden and intrude upon local views.

5.34 Local canal links: The extent of the study area for this Conservation Plan has been limited to an area of land immediately surrounding Stoke Bruerne but the canal, by its very nature, has wider links along the national network of waterways.

5.39 Paint balling: In the past, paint balling has occasionally taken place in the Stoke Park area (outside the study area) although this has been undertaken without planning permission. There is a feeling amongst some local people that this is giving rise to extra trafﬁc, noise and pollution and is not an appropriate use for the land. The Council has served an Enforcement Notice and an appeal has been dismissed. An Article 4(1) has also been served removing speciﬁc permitted development rights, including the ’28 day rule’.

5.35 The whole length of Blisworth Tunnel, which connects Stoke Bruerne to Blisworth, was not included within the study area but historic routes to Blisworth and Blisworth village itself should not be omitted from consideration of the special interest of the locality.

Character Area 3 Stoke Park: assessment of issues 5.36 Protection of designed landscape: The garden at Stoke Park is registered grade II in English Heritage’s Register of historic parks and gardens in England. There is a need to protect historic gardens and their settings from new development which would destroy or harm their historic interest. Furthermore, good management is essential if the quality of the garden is to be retained for future generations to enjoy. Advice can be sought from English Heritage (for registered sites) and the Garden History Society, who are statutory consultees in relation to sites of Grades I and II.

5.38 Public access: The buildings and gardens at Stoke Park have undoubted historic interest and could form part of an attractive short walk along public footpaths from the centre of Stoke Bruerne. Unfortunately the land is private, the principal features are not visible from a public viewpoint and access for the public is severely restricted.

Character Area 4 Agricultural land surrounding village: assessment of issues 5.40 The Towcester to Olney Railway: The disused railway line is now overgrown and inaccessible to the public because it is privately owned. It provides the potential for a footpath that might form part of the Northamptonshire Green Infrastructure project, as well as an educational resource relating to the development of the transport system so much in evidence at Stoke Bruerne but is currently under exploited. 5.41 Rights of way: The area is crossed by public rights of way. Several of these

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

footpaths are virtually impassable as a result of lack of maintenance, such as clearance of undergrowth, which is the responsibility of the landowner. The path crossing the course of the tunnel, just to the north of the south tunnel portal, would not be usable for a wide range of people due to its narrow width, overgrown state and slippery and sloping surface. It also is poorly signposted. The footpath running along the edge of the disused railway line requires some maintenance to make the stiles passable. 5.42 The newly created footpath, which follows the course of the former plateway, has made an important contribution through opening up this route and providing an opportunity for presentation of another part of the history of the parish and canal. However the northern end of the route is reconnected to the public footpath by a steep flight of steps, which restricts access. An unofficial path has been created which provides a more intuitive route. Neither route is suitable for disabled access and therefore less able bodied users are forced to return back along the same path. However, the unofficial route appears to encroach on privately owned land and it may not currently be possible to extend the path along this corridor. There is also some concern that returning down the steep boat horse path, which runs down the hill from the higher level, would be dangerous for wheel chair users without the introduction of additional safety measures. This route is currently open to all users and, as such, is, presumably, currently used by wheel chair users without any such additional safety features. 5.43 Loss of hedgerows: Loss of historic hedgerows through consolidation of fields to form larger land units has resulted in a gradual loss of historic character. Particularly modernised areas are located in the north east of the study area.

View along the disused railway line

5.44 Management of ridge and furrow: Ridge and furrow earthworks are a common archaeological feature but do make an important contribution to the historic character of the landscape as an easily visible record of agricultural methods used in the pre-Industrial age, particularly prior to the enclosure of the open ﬁeld system. It appears likely that the distribution of these earthworks was once more widespread through the study area but has since been reduced through the truncation of these earthworks by ploughing. 5.45 Threats to Victorian model farms: The study area as a whole is signiﬁcant for the survival of four model farms built by the 4th Duke of Grafton as part of a programme of agricultural improvements c. 1840: Stoke Plain, Stoke Gap and farm buildings at Lower Lock Farm and Rookery Farm – the majority of which are listed grade II. Only Stoke Plain Farm remains in agricultural use, the others having been converted to residential use. It is important that any future proposals for Stoke Plain Farm (which will likely require listed building consent and planning permission) are carefully controlled to preserve the building’s special character and appearance and maintain its relevance to the area’s social, economic and architectural history

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SECTION 6.0 – CONSERVATION POLICIES AND RECOMMENDATIONS Introduction 6.1 This section contains policies and recommendations for the management of the study area and selected elements within it having special regard to preserving the architectural and historic interest of the site. 6.2 The study area is in several different ownerships and covers a large and diverse area. The recommendations below do not propose a single scheme or comprehensive vision for the study area. 6.3 This first part of this section sets out seven general policies (prefixed P) to ensure that the area is maintained and managed in accordance with the principles advocated in the body of the Plan. 6.4 The second part of this section contains twenty one recommendations (prefixed R) in response to the specific issues identified in Section 5. 6.5 The assessment of significance and analysis of the issues provided in this Plan form the basis for these policies and recommendations. They aim to:

• Help define an overall vision for the site; • Ensure that alterations and interventions preserve or enhance the character and significance of the area’s key features as appropriate; • Define an effective approach to repair and prevent damage or deterioration; • Satisfy statutory requirements; • Enhance public appreciation of the site; • Control future intervention; • Retain the character and quality of the canal, village and surrounding landscape; • Provide a sound basis for the enhancement of the historic environment; • Protect with due consideration the long term vulnerability and sustainability of the study area. POLICIES: The policies complement, and form a development of, the policies identified in Appendix 2 ‘Planning Policy Context’, notably policies in the South Northamptonshire Local Plan and central government guidance in Planning Policy Guidance 15: Planning and the Historic Environment (PPG15) and PPG 16 Planning and Archaeology. P1

Historic conservation:

To repair, develop and maintain the built heritage within the Stoke Bruerne study area in accordance with international, national and local authority conservation principles and policies.

Victorian farm buildings requiring restoration and conservation

These principles are embodied in the Government’s Planning Policy Guidance 15 – Planning and the Historic Environment; The British Standard Guide (BS7913) – The principles of building conservation; British Waterways’ standards and practices.

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Site signiﬁcance:

To ensure that all development within the study area is based on a full understanding of the signiﬁcance of the site. The assessment of signiﬁcance included in this Plan should be accepted by stakeholders as the starting point for the future planning of physical works. All works should be preceded by a detailed appraisal of impact of works on historic buildings, archaeology, landscape and ecology. P3

Community engagement:

To consult fully with user groups, local communities and statutory bodies in order to better inform the decisionmaking process with regard to the study area. There exists a potential for conﬂict between the residents of Stoke Bruerne and future development of the potential of the canal. It is essential that the local community is fully consulted over any proposals. P4

Landscape:

To preserve and enhance the signiﬁcant landscape character of the study area. The assessment in the Plan notes that the landscape surrounding Stoke Bruerne and the canal is signiﬁcant in terms of setting and historic and ecological interest and it is vital that this is preserved. P5

Statutory requirements:

To ensure that all statutory and legal requirements are met. In addition to statutory planning requirements the following should be noted:

Equal Opportunities: Compliance with local policies for Equal Opportunities and the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 must not be pursued without regard for the historical signiﬁcance and sensitivity of the site. Health and Safety: All health and safety issues should be resolved bearing in mind both the need to maintain and preserve the historic appearance of the study area and at the same time achieve the preservation and enhancement of the listed structures. Construction: Any construction works should comply with the Construction, Design and Management (CDM) Regulations (2007). Disability Discrimination Act: All works must comply with the Disability Discrimination Act 2005 P6

Sustainability:

To ensure that the Stoke Bruerne study area is managed in a sustainable manner to enable present and future generations to appreciate and conserve its historic and picturesque qualities. Any repairs, improvements or alterations to buildings within the study area should be carried out using sustainable methods and materials, appropriate for the site, its history and its particular location. P7

Bio-diversity:

To ensure that any works within the study area conserve, and where appropriate, restore or enhance the ecology and bio-diversity of the area. The study area contains a nature reserve managed by The Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire and Peterborough, which provides habitat for a wide range of wildlife including invertebrates, birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians, as well

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

as opportunities for wild plants and ﬂowers. The study area also contains areas of managed and semi-natural woodland, farmland, including permanent pasture and areas of still and moving water including the canal and series of lock ponds, which have been colonized by a variety of water plant and animal species.

Former Mill Dock

Investigate options for the site of former Mill Dock adjacent to the Museum. For options, see Section 7.0. R5

Visitor management

RECOMMENDATIONS: R1

National Waterways Museum

Improve the attraction of the Museum to ensure its long term viability and to enhance its rightful contribution to the signiﬁcance of Stoke Bruerne. For options, see Section 7.0. R2

Dry lock next to Lock 14

Use the opportunity provided by the lock’s need for repair and maintenance to decide on options to secure the feature’s long-term future.

Prepare a visitor management strategy that identiﬁes the impact of additional visitors to Stoke Bruerne and makes appropriate proposals for the resolution of adequate parking provision, movement of visitors around the site, provision of facilities and waterside safety. The strategy should consider the provision of a permanent summer lock keeper to assist visitors and boaters, ensure waterside safety and correct lock operation, and help with interpretation of the site. Consideration might also be given to additional public seating for those with poor mobility, enabling them to use the area more freely and complete circular walks.

For options, see Section 7.0. R3

R6 Care and maintenance of historic buildings

‘Quarry ﬁeld’

Take advantage of British Waterways’ ownership of this canalside field to further enhance the attraction of the village and canal. The field in question lies on the north side of the canal just north of the village. It contains former fish ponds of uncertain date and is the site of a former stone quarry and tramway and the approach to the discontinued tunnel entrance. For options, see Section 7.0.

Monitor the condition of all historic buildings, report ﬁndings and take action, as necessary. Where the condition of a building gives cause for concern, appropriate steps should be taken to secure the future of the building, including the use of statutory powers. R7

Vacant and underused buildings

Explore new uses for the stable buildings, tug store and leggers’ hut

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Interpretation

Develop a coherent interpretation strategy to improve appreciation and interpretation of historic features. Priority should be given to the following: Grand Union Canal, Blisworth Tunnel, Top Lock and plateway. On-site interpretation should be maintained and enhanced to ensure that visitors to the site understand: a) The historical development of the study area and its buildings; b) The relationship of the buildings to the development of the village and/or canal and its landscape setting; c) Connections with the social and economic development of the area. Access routes and interpretative features should be maintained and enhanced to provide a coordinated and coherent experience for the visitor as follows: a) Interpretative media should be designed to be accessible to visitors with all abilities and be in accordance with best practice; b) Generally visitors to the site should be allowed access to as much of the study area as possible, unless it is unsafe to do so, particularly vulnerable to damage, or required for an operational function. R9

Stoke Bruerne Conservation Area

Prepare a Stoke Bruerne Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Proposals as set out in the English Heritage Guidance ‘Guidance on conservation area appraisals’ and ‘Guidance on the management of conservation areas’.

The document should fully review the existing boundary of the Stoke Bruerne Conservation Area and consider the need for further Article 4(2) Directions to protect buildings that retain original features from inappropriate alteration. R10 Design of new development Prepare design guidance about new development and household extensions for use by home-owners, agents, architects and developers. There are few opportunities for development in this small village. New development should aspire to a quality of design and execution, related to its context, which may be valued in the future. This neither implies nor precludes working in traditional or new ways, but will normally involve respecting values established through assessment of the signiﬁcance of the area. R11 Direction signs to parking and facilities Prepare and implement co-ordinated directional signage to dedicated visitor parking areas. Signage should direct visitors to suitable parking spaces without causing additional trafﬁc movements through the village. In addition, signage is required to direct pedestrians from parking areas to the village’s points of interest and facilities without causing undue disturbance to daily village life. R12 Management of open space Prepare an agreed plan for the management of the village greens and, with the support of other private landowners and bodies, guidelines for

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

the management of other open spaces (e.g. churchyard, canalside, footpaths). A plan for the management of open space should ensure that the visual amenity of the area is not spoiled by inappropriate planting or neglect. It should also consider providing additional publicly accessible open space for tourists, such as the ﬁeld containing the former quarry and rectory ﬁsh ponds. R13 Local Park Investigate the possibility of a ‘local park’, potentially focussed on the transhipment point to the south of the bottom lock, which would act as a destination point for circular walks to the south of the village. This area might also form part of an extended, linear canal corridor park, which would also include the disused side ponds, although this would require some input from local people to ensure appropriate management. The aim should be to create a planned space, combining areas of well maintained public open space, enhancement of the historic elements of the canal and areas of improved wildlife habitat. R14 Rights of way Carry out a survey of existing rights of way to ensure that these are fully passable; encourage the County Council to maintain footpaths to a safe and accessible standard, undertaking repairs where necessary.

R15 Guided walks Research and prepare further guided walks centred on Stoke Bruerne that draw people towards the area’s less well-known areas of historic interest such as Stoke Park, the former railway, the ‘model farms’ and the archaeological interest of the farmland surrounding the village. Guided walks includes self-guided walks (assisted by a leaﬂet or audio) and walks led and accompanied by a dedicated walk leader. Limitations to the walk must be explained before the walk commences – either via the leaﬂet/audio or the walk leader. The routes must aim to be safe for pedestrians of all ages and abilities and there may be some need to resolve issues with crossing the busy A508 in the south of the canal corridor. This might include reopening the towpath on the east side of the canal under this bridge. Review the current plateway path for potential of extension to the north, which may require co-operation with local landowners. R16 Signage Carry out an audit of advertising signage within the study area and take enforcement action against unauthorised signs as necessary. Ensure that all applications for outdoor advertisements comply with South Northamptonshire Council’s ‘Policy on Advertisement Control’. R17 Trees

This survey should also look at the potential for new routes and the possibility of reclaiming those that have been lost (see R 15 below)

In partnership with British Waterways and local landowners prepare a tree management strategy including a tree audit to ensure that priorities are agreed and funding set aside for the costs involved in remedial works or replacement.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

R18 Local canal links Ensure that consideration is given to the inclusion of the wider canal network in any matters concerning the future promotion or development of the area. R19 Environmental management of canal bank Prepare a detailed environmental management strategy for the canal corridor area to complement British Waterways existing Vegetation Management Strategy. An environmental management strategy should identify suitable sites for ‘rough’ wildlife friendly edges and well maintained grassed areas running up to the canal’s edge and make for provision for larger hedgerow trees that will provide some sense of enclosure without creating signiﬁcant screening of views. Maintaining hedgerows to a suitable height to allow views out of the southern part of the canal to the wider landscape should also form a consideration. R20 Hedgerows In co-ordination with the Environment Agency, DEFRA and local landowners, prepare a strategy to help preserve the historic ﬁeld pattern and historic hedgerows. R21 Statutory listing of key historic structures Submit to English Heritage a case for listing the Forge, Stables, Leggers Hut and Blisworth Tunnel.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

SECTION 7.0 - KEY HISTORIC FEATURES – THE OPTIONS 7.1 This Section considers a number of options for the Museum and three other key canalside features. Options are assessed with particular regard for ensuring that historical integrity is maintained. Other constraints, e.g. financial or practical, are noted but will require further detailed assessment and professional advice. 7.2 Four key historic features are considered. These features are: • The National Waterways Museum; • The dry lock next to Lock No. 14 (in need of maintenance and repair); • Former Mill Dock, the infilled canal basin and wharf adjacent to The National Waterways Museum; • Field containing the former stone quarry and tramway (‘Quarry Field’). 7.3 The former Mill Dock and Quarry Field, though under no present threat, are considered because, together with the Museum and dry lock, they form an ensemble of buildings, spaces and archaeological features, within the responsibility of British Waterways or the Waterways Trust, that have the potential to enliven the canalside and re-invigorate the Museum. 7.4 Options relating to the Museum, dry lock, former Mill Dock and quarry field are considered below. The issue of the leggers’ hut, the old stables and the tug store are considered in the relevant entry in the Gazetteer. 7.5 Several of the options are interrelated. For example, the filling in of the dry lock might provide an alternative picnic area if the former Mill dock were to be restored. Such inter-relationships emphasise the need for a comprehensive and co-ordinated approach to the area although it will also be seen that certain options might be taken independently.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

The National Waterways Museums - options Introduction 7.6 Numbers of visitors to the museum have been falling for several years. Provision of a cafe, a larger area for the shop, some new exhibits and an audio trail have added to the Museum’s attraction but if numbers of visitors continue to fall this may not be sufﬁcient to support the maintenance of the collection in Stoke Bruerne. Option 1 – Do nothing 7.7 The ‘do nothing’ option is likely to result in a continuing fall in visitor numbers until such time as the museum is no longer economically viable. This would result in a serious lessening of the village’s potential to attract visitors and a consequent adverse impact on the local economy and employment.

Option 2 – Fully re-assess the existing exhibits, internal layout and accompanying facilities such as bookshop and café with a view to a renewed and more stimulating exhibition and experience. 7.8 Apart from the possibility of internal works required as part of a revised layout, an alteration to the internal exhibits need pose no threat to the historic interest of this grade II listed building. Internal alterations will require an application for listed building consent and would need to be assessed against local and national planning policy. However, minor internal alterations would be likely to receive consent. Such an approach would not preclude implementing any of the other options below, at a later date, and would not be expected to incur very considerable cost. The space and existing facilities of the museum buildings are, however, limited and are likely to restrict the scope of any such reorganisation to a certain extent.

The National Waterways Museum

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Option 3 – Increase the size of the Museum by extending to the rear or side 7.9 The opportunity exists to extend the Museum to the east (rear) or north (side). Planning permission and listed building consent would be required. The rear of the Museum is less signiﬁcant than its more publicly visible façade. Subject to an appropriate design, consent might be given for an extension which could provide additional facilities such as seminar rooms, research facilities and educational facilities. This option might also be used to provide fully compliant access for all from British Waterways’ car park to the Museum and to provide access to the building’s basement, which is currently used as storage space only. The extension might also make better use of the existing single storey buildings to the rear of the museum and could improve accessibility to the site Option 4 – Associate the Museum with adjacent external canal-related buildings 7.10 This option does not preclude options 2 and 3. It proposes raising the proﬁle of adjacent external canal-related buildings such as the dry lock at Lock 14, the leggers’ hut and, possibly, the former Mill basin, by including them as part of the Museum’s ‘exhibits’, thereby adding interest and attraction to the Museum. There are problems of access to be resolved and a considerable investment may be required. This option should be viewed with the options regarding the former Mill basin and the dry lock next to Lock No. 14 (see below).

Dry lock at Lock No. 14 - options Introduction 7.11 The dry canal lock parallel to Lock No. 14 is in a poor condition with deterioration of the brickwork evident from a cursory inspection. It has become a trap for

Dry Lock No.14

windblown and dropped litter. Moreover the ‘imported’ weighing machine is out of place. The canal boat, which is housed in the lock is deteriorating and detracts from the appearance of the conservation area. The gates at the southern end of the lock are also deteriorating and are not signiﬁcantly associated with the structure having been imported to the site over a century after the lock was converted for use as a lock pond to serve the adjacent Lock No. 14. 7.12 The railings surrounding the top of the lock are inappropriate as a safety feature and access to the inside of the lock is too poor to allow its satisfactory maintenance. 7.13 The lock, which forms one of the earliest surviving structures of the Grand Union Canal within the study area (the adjacent road bridge is of contemporary date), has no interpretation available to explain its signiﬁcance to visitors.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Option 1 - Do nothing 7.14 The ‘do nothing’ option would result in the continued deterioration of the structure and ongoing and worsening impact on the visual amenity of the surrounding listed buildings and conservation area. However, as the building is a grade II listed building, the local planning authority has powers to legally enforce repairs and to ensure the survival of the structure.

the lock. The work of consolidation would require specialist skills and use of sensitive materials, including lime based mortar, to avoid detracting from the structure’s historic interest. New railings around the top of the lock would also be required, particularly if the depth of the lock is increased. 7.18 The weighing machine and boat would require re-housing, either in the National Waterways Museum, perhaps forming part of a permanent exhibit or could be relocated to another suitable site.

Option 2. Consolidate dry lock, remove weighing machine and boat and improve public access and interpretation.

Option 3 - Fill in dry lock to create an area of open space

7.15 Consolidating the brick work and other parts of the lock is essential to ensure its long term survival and would obviously be beneﬁcial to the listed building. Removal of the weighing machine, canal boat and lock gates could facilitate better public access to the dry lock, promoting its use by the public and easier maintenance, including removal of windblown litter. However, as noted above, listed building consent would not be given for the removal of these items until and unless appropriate alternative ‘accommodation’ could be found.

7.19 Filling in the lock would probably help to prevent the total loss of the structure for the present, although it is likely that it would result in some damage to it and would not help to repair damage done previously. The lock, which represents an important historic feature in the conservation area, would be lost from public view and the unique interest of the historic system of parallel locks would also be lost. An additional area of public open space would be created, although the future use of this area would need careful consideration.

7.16 Public access would enable the use of the dock as an educative resource, showing the working mechanism of the lock, with this illustrated in action in the functioning Lock No. 14 only a few metres away. The removal of the intrusive weighing machine, boat and lock gates would represent an enhancement of the appearance of the lock and restore some of its historic character, as well as enhancing the appearance of the conservation area.

7.20 The weighing machine and canal boat would both have to be re-housed. This would require listed building consent and consent would not be given until and unless appropriate alternative ‘accommodation’ could be found. Loss of the visible remains of the former parallel lock, which represents one of the distinguishing features of the course of the canal through the village centre, would represent a substantial adverse impact on the special character and appearance of the conservation area. This option would also represent a signiﬁcant adverse impact to the character and appearance of a listed building.

7.17 This option is likely to involve some considerable cost, including the undertaking of structural survey and preparation of a detailed plan for removal of any intrusive features, such as the brick piers constructed to support the weighing machine and the later concrete ﬂoor of

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Option 4. Consolidate dry lock and cover over to create new visitor centre 7.21 This option would involve the conversion of the lock into an enclosed indoor space through the construction of a structure over the top of it. It would ensure the preservation of the structure of the lock and might allow the restoration and presentation of one or more of the canal boat, iron lock gates or weighing machine. However, it is likely to be a very expensive option, requiring both planning consent and listed building consent, and would result in the creation of a new building in the conservation area that would have serious implication on circulation space around the canalside. Reasonable uses of such a structure might also be difficult to find and it would require ongoing investment for its maintenance and use. Option 5 - Consolidate dry lock, remove weighing machine and boat and fill dry lock with artificial material 7.22 This option, like options 3 and 4, is dependent on finding alternative sites for the existing listed structures e.g. weighing machine and canal boat and on obtaining the necessary planning consents. Similarly, it will involve specialist skills to consolidate the existing lock although the continuing deterioration of the lock will anyway require remedial works before too long. Following consolidation of the lock structure and removal of weighing machine and canal boat, the lock could be filled with an artificial material and a boat and paddle gear inserted that could then form part of a ‘living’ exhibit linked to the Museum. Though perhaps easier to implement than Option 6 (Re-open lock to the upstream part of the canal) and less likely to involve loss of historic fabric, this option may be without precedent and would have to be carefully assessed especially with regard to the proposed infill material.

Option 6 - Restore lock to working order 7.23 To restore the structure of the lock to its original use would most probably result in the loss of a signiﬁcant part of its early 19th century structure, which would represent an adverse impact on the listed building and be contrary to normal conservation policy. This option would also restrict circulation between the public open spaces in the centre of the village which would potentially create a loss of amenity. 7.24 An alternative mooring would also have to be found for the trip boat Indian Chief which utilises the waterspace immediately above the lock. However, some boaters believe the lock is in a better alignment with the canal than the currently used parallel lock and would ease manoeuvring of boats particularly when exiting the lock downstream. Option 6 would require an additional pedestrian bridge over the tail of the lock, similar to that recently installed over Lock 14, so as not to restrict circulation. However this would create a continuous footway parallel to the existing road bridge, further reducing the risk of pedestrians taking the short-cut route over the bridge. Option 7 - Re-open lock to the upstream part of the canal 7.25 Re-opening the lock to the upstream part of the canal only (i.e. re-watering it without making it a working lock) would probably lead to a similar loss of historic fabric as in Option 5 above. As in Option 5, the re-watering of the lock could result in a restriction in circulation between the public open spaces in the centre of the village. However, a removable walkway to allow boats to enter would help overcome this potential restriction. This proposal would also require planning consent and listed building consent.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

7.26 Principles for carrying out works to dry lock next to Lock No. 14: • Retain original fabric, i.e. relating to the early 19th century construction of the lock wherever possible. • Use appropriate and sensitive materials for replacement of any material removed where necessary. • Improve the railings to ensure the safety of pedestrians using the public areas around the lock. • Ensure that reuse is feasible in a range of conditions and that structure can be readily maintained. • Ensure that access to the lock is compliant with the DDA.. • Ensure that appropriate interpretation of the lock is made to allow intellectual access and to make greatest use of its educative potential. • Consolidation and restoration should be accompanied by preparation of a plan for the appropriate management of the lock in order to ensure that it does not deteriorate again. This might form part of a wider plan for the management of public spaces within the study area.

Former Mill Dock, the inﬁlled canal basin and wharf adjacent to The National Waterways Museum options

Former Mill Dock

7.28 At present, there is no driving need in terms of conservation to undertake additional works to prevent the deterioration of this historic asset although there is a local lobby who would like to see the basin re-opened. 7.29 Works to and around the former Mill Dock may have an effect on the line of canalside poplar trees. The future of the trees and any replacement will require consultation with the local community as well as technical and safety considerations. Any plans to replace the poplar trees should include consideration of the desirability of preserving subsurface archaeological remains of the mill dock and future interpretation or use of this structure. See also paragraph 5.25. Option 1 - Do nothing.

Introduction 7.27 The inﬁlled canal basin lies within an area of open space owned by British Waterways, currently used as a free access picnic area outside the National Waterways Museum. Inﬁlling in the 20th century is likely to have preserved elements of the original structure of the canal basin, such as brick walls and stonework. Parchmarks in the grassed area, showing the alignment of the retaining walls, demonstrate the survival of at least part of the structure.

7.30 This option would require little capital expenditure and would result in no signiﬁcant loss to the structure of the buried lock basin, which could still be re-excavated or otherwise reused at a later date. The picnic area and trees would be retained. 7.31 The ‘do nothing’ option would not result in any loss to the historic resource and the other options could be followed up following the development of more detailed and considered plans at a time when funding is available.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Option 2 – Delineate and interpret the extent and layout of the former Mill Dock 7.32 This option is simply to mark out the extent and layout of the former Mill Dock on the surface of the existing grassed surface, with accompanying interpretation. To be accurate and not conjectural this would require some excavation to ascertain the exact location of underground features. The basin could be delineated by, for example, a line of bricks set in the grass but it would then be important to point out as part of the interpretation that that these are not original. The advantages of this option are similar to those of the ‘do-nothing’ i.e. no loss of historic resource and opportunity to carry out further works at a later date. However, the option provides some interest and interpretation of this ‘hidden’ historic feature whilst keeping the land in recreational use - although the delineation might not be fully discernible from eye level. Option 3 - Excavate the fill of the dock down as far as the coping stones 7.33 This option is to dig down as far as the coping stones which ran along the tops of the dock’s retaining walls (if these are still present) and provide an alternative surface treatment within the area thus defined to delineate the outline of the basin, along with some interpretation. Some explorative excavation of the dock, undertaken by suitably qualified archaeologists, would also allow an assessment of the impact of root activity from the adjacent poplar trees on the preservation of the buried basin walls. The canalside trees would be retained. Option 4 - Re-excavate the basin, connect it to the Grand Union Canal and use as exhibition space for the National Waterways Museum. 7.34This option is likely to require considerable expense, as well as causing some short term disturbance to the

conservation area and setting of the listed Museum building. It is likely that excavation and restoration of the canal basin would involve some loss of the original fabric, resulting in a minor loss to the archaeological record. The canal basin is not a listed structure and would probably not qualify for designation as a Scheduled Monument. Although the stated preference for the preservation of archaeological remains is that they should be retained in-situ where possible, the walls of the former canal basin would not rate as of more regional archaeological interest and loss of historic fabric, where unavoidable might reasonably be mitigated through preparation of an appropriate record. 7.35 This option would result in loss of a popular public open space, although this might be compensated by providing an alternative area or improving other open space elsewhere in the study area. 7.36 The towpath would have to be rerouted or the canal arm bridged. A bridge will involve considerable expense and discussion as to how best to design a structure that preserves the character of the area. It would also require the felling of the line of canalside poplar trees. Bridging the arm by means of a lift, swing or floating bridge would be less intrusive. Several examples of moveable floating bridges already exist on the canal system. 7.37 Additional expense is likely to be incurred through the requirement to move a fibre-optic cable running along the canal wall. 7.38 However, the restored canal basin would help to interpret and present their original function and historic relationship with the canal, as well as providing an additional and versatile exhibition space for the National Waterways Museum. Its excavation and connection to the waterway would require planning permission.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

7.39 The main justification for this option is to exploit an opportunity to provide waterscape at the Museum, which could be used to display historic canal boats, which would be changed from time to time. Option 5 - Re-excavate, or partially excavate the canal basin without reconnecting it to the canal and use as exhibition space for the National Waterways Museum. 7.40 This option would be less expensive than totally re-excavating the basin and reconnecting it with the canal (see option 3) but would also provide an opportunity for displaying historic canal boats, or even providing a space for restoring historic craft. As part of a living museum it might be necessary to improve security around the area. The potential to undertake Option 2 at a later date would remain. 7.41 There would be some loss of open space and there would be a financial requirement, although not as severe as Option 2. Engineering and restoration works to consolidate the basin’s walls would be less complex. However, a crane would be required to lift canal boats into and out of the basin, which is likely to create significant cost and may not be practical. Option 6 - Build additional museum space over the former canal basin. 7.42 This option is likely to result in significant loss of the archaeological remains of the canal basin and would prevent any potential use of the site for this use. Existing views would be curtailed and the line of poplar trees may be affected. The erection of a building would require complex engineering works to build on the early 19th century canal embankment. 7.43 Such a proposed development in the conservation area, affecting the setting of a listed building, would be difficult to justify in conservation terms.

Principles for carrying out works to former Mill basin: • Re-excavation of the canal basin, for whatever purpose, should seek to avoid any unnecessary disturbance to, or loss of the historic fabric of the canal basin. • Reuse of the canal basin should provide a use that will ensure the long term preservation of the structure in a use connected with its original function. • Any additional structures required to make use of the site as part of an exhibition space for the National Waterways Museum, should be to design and materials that are sensitive to the character and appearance of the conservation area and the listed museum building. • Conjectural restoration shall be avoided. • The effect of any proposed works on the canalside poplar trees must be assessed and included within any planning application.

Field containing the former stone quarry and tramway (‘Quarry Field’) - options Introduction 7.44 The ﬁeld in question belongs to British Waterways and lies to the north of the canal just north of the village. It contains a number of important historical features relating to the history of the canal’s construction and its later use including a former stone quarry and tramway, ﬁsh ponds of uncertain date and the early course of the canal. However, it was noted during the characterisation survey that access to this land and the historic environment resources, both physical and visual, is currently very restricted, whilst there is also a lack of interpretation. As it is in the possession of British Waterways, there is some potential to provide public access to this land and to provide additional resources and interpretation to improve the visitor experience.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Option 1 – Do nothing 7.45 Under this option, this land will continue to be used for exclusively agricultural purposes. The hedgerow between the field and the towpath will most probably be maintained through use of chain flail, which would not reduce its current height, preventing any additional visual access to the historic features and with no interpretation to provide information on their presence. Option 2 – Restrict height of canalside hedgerows to provide visual access and provide interpretation through information boards 7.46 This option would be relatively inexpensive and easy to implement. Reduction of the height of hedgerows through laying would be a simple means of providing visual access to the earthworks and other remains, which include the rails of the former quarry tramway. It would also represent good husbandry and contribute to the quality of the wider canalside environment. Option 3 – Make the field publicly accessible for pedestrians from the canal towpath with interpretation of earthworks and other features. 7.47 Given that the field is owned by British Waterways, it is possible that it could be made accessible to the public directly from the towpath, allowing physical access to the earthworks and other archaeological features. Interpretation of the earthworks might include management of grass at a low level in particular areas, or use of planting to highlight the more waterlogged areas of the former ponds, in addition to the use of information boards and marked pathways. Other parts of the field might be used to provide open picnic areas, or areas managed using traditional techniques to create wildflower rich grassland, with attendant ecological, as well as historical interest.

Quarry Field

7.48 It is likely that there will be difficulties accessing the field for some less able users. The provision of access and maintenance of the grass and other vegetation is likely to require some initial investment and maintenance cost, although this can be partly achieved through ongoing agricultural use of the land. 7.49 Use of this land for recreational uses for more than 28 days per year would require an application for planning permission for change of use. The field lies within a Special Landscape area and any change of use must be fully justified. The provision of additional public open space and physical, as well as intellectual, access to the historic environment would have a beneficial impact on visitors’ experience of the village and canal. By tying in use of this land to the wider setting of the National Waterways Museum, visitors to the museum would also gain a better experience of the social and industrial history of the canals.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Option 4 – Provide vehicular access to the field with car parking and other visitor facilities, including some hard surfaced paths, as well as interpretation of the archaeological features and pedestrian access to the towpath. 7.50 This option would provide the greatest level of access to the historic features and would also, potentially, provide some relief to the car parks elsewhere in the study area, particularly at busy times. Co-operation between three landowners would be required to implement this option. 7.51 Additional visitor facilities that might be provided could include a public convenience building that might also include a sanitary disposal point, showers and washing machine for boat owners, and possibly a sale of refreshments. The archaeological remains and other open areas could be managed as in Option 3 (above), with provision of appropriate interpretation, whilst pedestrian access to the canal towpath would help to create a pedestrian route from the end of Chapel Lane to the canal side. 7.52 Clearly this option would require planning permission, including the creation of a new track from the western end of Chapel Lane through to the field in question, definition of areas for car parking, possibly with hardstanding, construction of any ancillary buildings, including public lavatories or refreshments shop, as well as the change of use from agriculture to recreation. 7.53 This option could create some additional revenue from the use of the land for car parking and potentially, sale of refreshments, as well as increasing public access to the historic environment resources. Some or all of the environmental improvements suggested in Option 3 could also be achieved.

7.54 This option would create some additional traffic flow to the western end of Chapel Lane, although it was noted during the public consultation that issues of traffic congestion on this road occurred most commonly when the existing car park was full and creating a continuous flow of traffic entering and leaving the car park. It would also require creating a short stretch of hard surface track from the western end of Chapel Lane, where there is an existing field gate. Moreover it is likely that the prospect of providing an additional car park on the edge of the village is likely to create some anxiety for residents, particularly those living on Mill Lane and Chapel Lane, whose properties may overlook this area. Any works would therefore need to be undertaken in co-operation with the local community. 7.55 Principles for carrying out works within this field: • Any change of use for this field should minimise adverse impacts on the designated historic environment resources, including indirect effects on listed buildings and the conservation area and direct impacts on the Special Landscape Area, undesignated archaeological remains and historically important hedgerows, as well as ecological resources. • Provision of access to this land for recreational use should be coupled with improved management and interpretation of the historic environment resources, including earthworks and other archaeological features, this may include control of the growth of scrub and beneficial grassland management. • Provision of access to this land for recreational use should promote a greater understanding of the history of the canal.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

• Provision of access for motorised vehicles should minimise any adverse disturbance to the normal movement of traffic within the village/conservation area. • Provision of car parking spaces and hardstanding should meet the need for car parking identified elsewhere within the study but should aim to reduce any visual impact on nearby residential properties. • New buildings and areas of car parking should not intrude into views from the conservation area and most particularly those from the village’s historic canalside area. • New structures should be constructed using sympathetic design and materials, reflecting both the rural location and relationship to the National Waterways Museum and wider canalside area. The choice of hardstanding material should also be sympathetic to the rural location, ideally retaining the greenery of the location. • The construction of any new buildings or areas of hardstanding should be achieved with the minimum of loss of any of the historic features within this area. • The material of any access road should not be of an ‘urban’ nature, but rather reflect the rural character of the location.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

SECTION 8.0 - IMPLEMENTATION, ADOPTION AND REVIEW 8.1 This Conservation Plan identifies those issues affecting the historic significance of the study area and provides policies and recommendations for the future. 8.2 The policies recommended and options discussed throughout this document should be endorsed as a guide for future planning work. 8.3 Some policies and recommendations will require further research and assessment to establish viability. Implementation will undoubtedly depend on available funds and in some instances political will. 8.4 Unlike a discrete structure in a single ownership, this study area covers four distinct sub-areas each with different management issues. Ownership of the study area is fragmented and there are a number of organisations and individuals that own and manage the study area’s key features. One of the results of this is that co-ordination and management of the area as a whole will be a complex process that will depend on successful negotiation with landowners and tenants. 8.5 With particular regard to the canal and village, British Waterways, The Waterways Trust and South Northamptonshire Council have considerable influence. British Waterways are responsible for the maintenance of canal, locks, tunnel and canalside areas and repair work to certain canalside buildings; The Waterways Trust is responsible for the Canal Museum and shop; South Northamptonshire Council, as local planning authority, have control over development work that requires planning permission, listed building consent, conservation area consent, advertisement consent and works to trees within the Stoke Bruerne Conservation Area.

8.6 The successful implementation of policies for the canal and village will require close liaison between these bodies as well as Stoke Bruerne Parish Council, Northamptonshire County Council, Stoke Bruerne Canal Partnership, Northamptonshire Enterprise Limited, East Midlands Tourism, Northamptonshire Wildlife Trust, Friends of the Canal Museum, Inland Waterways Association, River Nene Regional Park, West Northamptonshire Development Corporation and the Parochial Church Council. Adoption 8.7 The Conservation Plan will carry more weight as a material planning consideration and in support of, for instance, bids for funding if it has been formally adopted or endorsed by the stakeholders noted above. It is therefore vital that a full programme of public consultation is undertaken before ﬁnal publication. For details of public consultation regarding this document, see Appendix 3. Review 8.8 It is recommended that this Plan should be revised and updated every ﬁve years, unless changing circumstances point to a lesser period. The next review is therefore due before the autumn of 2012.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

06.03.08

APPENDIX 1 GAZETTEER OF FEATURES OF ARCHITECTURAL OR HISTORIC INTEREST Contents: 1. Waterways Museum 2. Lock No. 14 Stoke Top Lock 3. Mill Dock (inﬁlled) 4. Bridge No. 53 5. Lock No. 15 6. Leggers’ Hut 7. Boat Inn 8. Navigation Inn 9. Canal Cottage 10. Sister Mary’s House 11. St Mary’s Church and Churchyard 12. South portal to Blisworth Tunnel 13. Tug store 14. Stables 15. Rectory Bridge abutments 16. Tunnel spoil earthworks 17. Winding hole (modern) 18. Site of quarry railway and loading wharf 19. Lock No. 16 -20 inclusive 20. Stoke Wharf and trans-shipment point

72 74 76 77 78 80 81 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95

21. Side ponds 22. Former brickworks and arm (west side) 23. Horse plate railway 24. Ropewalk 25. Rectory ﬁsh ponds 26. The Old Chapel

96 97 98 99 100 101

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic Feature: The National Waterways Museum (Character Area 1A) Description The National Waterways Museum (Stoke Bruerne) is housed within a Grade II listed 19th century mill building and presents a collection of artefacts and informative displays relating to the history of canal buildings and transport throughout Great Britain and in lowland England in particular. It also houses more specific displays on the Grand Union Canal and its features and construction in the immediate vicinity of Stoke Bruerne. The top two storeys of the building house the majority of museum exhibits, whilst the ground floor and a modern single storey extension house a gift shop and cafe. A public lavatory is provided at the basement level of the modern extension to the rear, although this is in need of modernisation. A detached single storey building to the rear provides school rooms and houses some additional exhibits that have recently been moved from the main building. Short history The mill building, which houses the museum was constructed in the 1840s as a steam mill for grinding corn. The mill was powered by a steam engine housed in a building on the north side of the structure with a tall chimney. The engine house and chimney had been demolished prior to the First World War. The mill would subsequently have lost its original use and appears to have served as a warehouse for some time. In 1963 the former mill building was converted, with remarkably little physical alteration, into the Canal Museum, by the British Transport Commission. It was the first ‘Waterways’ focused museum of such scale. The collection was initially that of Jack James, C.N.Hadlow and the BTC. Mr. James had previously used the much smaller building of the Legger’s Hut to display memorabilia associated with the canal, which proved very popular with visitors and tourists. The shop, now occupied by the cafe, was added on the site of the former engine house in 1974, which was subsequently extended to include the museum offices with public lavatories below in 1987.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Assessment of significance As a Grade II listed building the former mill structure is regarded as of special historic and architectural interest in its own right. The collections of the National Waterways Museum have been designated as an outstanding collection through the scheme operated by the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council and should therefore also be considered as of national importance. It includes objects painted by boatmen, costumes worn by boating families, waterways souvenirs, along with photographic and archive material. The museum also has regional value through the specific record and interpretation of the Grand Union Canal, its construction and operational history and is of very high local significance in that it makes a significant contribution to the recent historic character of Stoke Bruerne as a centre for canal history. The museum has recently established an audio-trail, making use of the collections as well as the archaeological interest of the canal in the immediate area of Stoke Bruerne. An exhibition documenting the history of families including several generations of canal workers also represents an excellent, but limited new addition Vulnerabilities and issues In recent years the numbers of visitors paying to use the museum have declined rapidly. If this situation continues there is a very real threat that the museum may have to be closed. The addition of a cafe has raised revenue, but has resulted in a reduction in the space available for museum displays. The museum collection and displays have not received significant investment in the past twenty years and are now outdated and very much in need of revitalisation. There are also issues relating to disabled access, as the main museum collection is on the first and second floors of the building accessed only by narrow and steep stairs. The limitations of space also mean that the museum is not able to adequately cater for school parties or other large groups.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic Feature: Lock No. 14 Stoke Top Lock (Character Area 1A) Description A former canal lock, which is now separated from the course of the canal by a grassed area to the south and a thick retaining wall to the north. The lock walls and copings are of red brick and are surrounded by black and white painted railings of square section metal tubing. The northern lock gates are missing and the southern pair are of an unusual design of riveted iron sheets with tubular iron balance beams. These were brought to this location in the 1960s as salvage from the Montgomery Canal. The floor of the lock has been raised by several feet. Poured concrete and brick piers support the large iron structure of a weighing machine, originally used to weigh coal barges on the Glamorganshire Canal and also brought to this location as salvage in the 1960s. The hull of a Birmingham “Railway” boat forms the last element of the permanent exhibit in this lock. Short history This lock lies on the earliest line of the Grand Junction Canal and was the highest of the flight of seven leading up to Stoke Bruerne, which were built in, or just before, 1805. A parallel lock to the north east was added in 1835, whilst this lock was converted for use as a side pond in 1851. Assessment of significance As a result of its abandonment, this lock retains its early or mid 19th century brickwork. As well as preserving its early appearance it also highlights its grouping with the first arch of the road bridge directly to the south, which is lined with similar brick. It retains elements of its original workings, which are visible to visitors and represent a potential learning resource, particularly when viewed in the context of the many working locks in the immediate vicinity. Lying within the publicly accessible area, this lock is viewable by the public from many points. This feature currently makes a moderate to high contribution to the character of the historic environment, although this is diminished by its condition. This contribution could be raised considerably through the implementation of an appropriate programme of restoration resulting in a re-use that allowed greater appreciation of its historical and architectural interest.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Vulnerabilities and issues The lock has an untidy appearance and can become a trap for dropped and windblown litter. Work is required to prevent and repair damage through the growth of weeds and ingress of the elements. The concrete bottom of the lock hides part of its depth and some of its interesting features, although re-excavating it entirely may not be desirable if this would create drainage problems. The interior of the lock is not currently accessible. Whilst the weighing machine, lock gates and barge hull are all features of interest to visitors to the National Waterways Museum and reďŹ&#x201A;ect its national, rather than purely local canal interest, these elements detract from the potential of the lock to illustrate part of the canalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s early history and detract visually from the surrounding historic buildings and spaces, as well as spoiling views from them. Paradoxically as a ďŹ xture within the listed lock the weighing machine is now also a listed building and the presence of these structures does serve as a reminder of the importance of Stoke Bruerne and its community in the preservation of much canal heritage.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic Feature: Former wharf and canal basin (infilled Mill Dock) (Character Area 1A) Description The site of a canal basin constructed as a small arm leading off the canal to serve the former mill, which now houses the National Waterways Museum. It has been infilled and is now a small area of mown grass with a linear depression marking the basin. Parch marks in the ground occasionally show the alignment of the tops of the retaining walls. The basin’s embankment creates a steep slope leading down to the car park to the north east. Short history This canal basin was built by Joseph Ebbern who is recorded as a Wharfinger and Coal Merchant in 1842. It was originally accessed across the towpath under a steeply arched bridge. At a later date it came to serve the adjacent mill as an offloading point for coal and flour, which prevented congestion forming on the canal. Assessment of significance As an area of well maintained grassland the area of the former basin has some value as a picnic area and stopping point for visitors offering views across the village to the north east and to the farmland beyond. It also provides a route to the museum from the car park, although the metalled paths circumvent the basin. Under the right conditions the shape of the former basin can be appreciated as a slight earthwork. The state of preservation of the historic stone or brickwork, which forms part of this feature, is currently unknown and cannot be ascertained without archaeological and structural investigation. This feature currently makes a small or medium contribution to the character of the historic environment although it would potentially make a high contribution if sensitively restored. Vulnerabilities and issues The basin is not currently under any significant threat. Indeed it is probable that burial of any surviving structural elements will have helped to preserve them, whereas continued use as part of the canal would most probably have resulted in their eventual loss through maintenance and replacement. However, it has been proposed that the canal basin should be re-excavated in order to make use of it as a floating display area for the museum. There is no in-principle reason not to re-excavate the basin as it is not designated as a historic monument or listed building. Indeed, its renovation would, most probably represent an enhancement of the conservation area and the Museum through helping to interpret the original function of the building and its relationship with the canal. However, the requirement of conserving those remains of the 19th century structure which still survive must be borne in mind, as well as other issues relating to practicality and cost.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic Feature: Bridge No. 53 (Character Area 1A) Description A double span (skew) road bridge built in a mixture of red brick and limestone. Viewed from the south, both arches are lined with red brick, whilst that to the left has a limestone super structure, including parapet and string course. The arch to the right has a limestone structure with red brick parapet and stringcourse. The arch to the right is slightly flatter. The Grand Union Canal with an accompanying towpath runs under the right hand arch. The former arm of the canal to the left has been filled in and is publicly accessible open space, leading to the dry lock No. 14 to the north. Short history The construction of the skew bridge dates from the initial phase of the canal’s construction and opening through Stoke Bruerne in 1805. This included the western arch of the bridge only. The eastern arch of the bridge would have been added in the 1830s, when the set of parallel locks was constructed. The position of the bridge necessitated the diversion of the main east–west village street well to the south of its original course past The Green to Chapel Lane. Assessment of significance The Bridge is a Grade II listed building and therefore of special historic and architectural interest. Its interest can also be defined as one of the historic structures relating to the construction and ongoing improvement of the nationally and regionally significant canal network. The position of the bridge and its influence on the street pattern through the village has local significance in the village’s social history. Vulnerabilities and issues As a historic building the bridge will require ongoing maintenance. The effect of large vehicles, including lorries and agricultural traffic on the structure of the bridge is uncertain. It might be preferable to impose a weight limit on traffic using the bridge but the following is relevant: a) it provides access to Stoke Plain Farm from the A508 and M1 b) heavy agricultural plant from other farms uses it, especially at hay-making and harvest c) it was considerably strengthened in 1972 under Operation Bridgeguard and is not the original structure inside the shell.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic Feature: Locks No. 14 and 15 (Character Area 1A) Description Two canal locks built with red brick and Staffordshire blue brick copings. Access is provided from towpaths on both sides of the canal, with sets of brick-built steps either side of the lock gates up to the top level at the ‘downstream’ end. Wooden balance beams to the gates are painted black with white ends and the gates have white painted railings along their top edges to assist crossing by operators. Modern brickwork with ridges has been introduced to assist operation of the balance beams. The growth of denser foliage around lock No. 15 creates a pleasantly enclosed space before the more open area of the long pound to the south.

This photograph of Lock 15 shows the lock on its original site, the duplicate lay to the right of the picture.

Just above Lock 15 and adjacent to the side ponds is a small brick-built bunker with a date brick incorporated. This was provided for the benefit of steamboats, whose crews would empty the boiler ashes into the bunker while in the lock. Later it was used by boat crews for the same purpose with cabin fires. The ash was then used by the lockkeepers in frosty weather for spreading over paths and lockgates, and also for “racking” gates if they were leaking. (Ash carefully dropped on the uphill side of a leaky boat or gate will form a temporary seal) Short history A duplicate flight of parallel locks was built in the 1830s to increase the speed of traffic through the lock flight. A parallel lock is recorded to the east of Lock No. 15 on historic maps, which has now been infilled. Only Locks 14 and 20 survive of the 1835 duplicate series. All the others are the original chambers. Assessment of significance These locks are Grade II listed buildings and are therefore considered to be of special historic and architectural interest. As part of the series of parallel locks they also have a significance in relation to the historical development of the nationally and regionally significant canal system. The presence of the parallel locks is significant locally as a feature of Stoke Bruerne’s canal landscape.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Vulnerabilities and issues As historic buildings and functioning canal locks these structures have ongoing maintenance requirements. It is important that, wherever possible, the historic fabric is retained in preference to replacement with modern materials. However, in line with English Heritageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s guidelines, where historic fabric must be replaced this should be done in such a way as to make clear the difference between the original, historic elements and replaced sections.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic Feature: Leggers’ Hut (Character Area 1A) Description The Legger’s Hut is a small building standing between the Boat Inn and Canal Cottage on the west side of the Grand Union Canal. It has a part-glazed door in the front elevation and a pitched roof of natural slate. It is built of white washed brick and is of one storey only. The hut was built following the institution of the Registered Leggers scheme in 1827. The brick-built extension of the Boat Inn which adjoins it may be dated from after the construction of this hut, since there is a gap between the hut and the extension of about a foot. This was too narrow for bricklayers to work in and close examination will reveal that the mortar of the pub extension has not been trimmed until it reaches the roofline of the leggers hut. On the other hand the mortar of the leggers hut chimney has been trimmed, showing that it was built before the pub extension and thus giving us a useful historical clue to dating. Short history Although it stands some distance from the Blisworth Tunnel this building was, apparently, used as an office or shelter by ‘leggers’ who legged or walked boats through the Blisworth Tunnel. Its role may have been superseded by the tug store further to the north, when leggers were replaced by a more efficient steam tug. The building was later used as a small museum displaying artefacts relating to the canal, the predecessor of the current National Waterways Museum. Assessment of significance The building is of local historic interest as a reminder of the economic and social history of the village. It also has some regional significance as part of the larger landscape of the Grand Union Canal and the history of its operation. Vulnerabilities and issues The building is currently unoccupied and, despite its potential historic value for presenting an important phase of the canal’s social and industrial history, it does not currently have any interpretation. A new use should be found for this building as part of a wider strategy for tying together features in the wider canalside area with the National Waterways Museum and its collections.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic Feature: Boat Inn (Character Area 1A) Description A public house standing on the west bank of the Grand Union Canal directly behind the towpath. It is a long, low, two-storey building in limestone with brick ends and gables. The body of the building has a thatched roof. A 19th century extension on the southern end has a natural slate roof. A long extension built in the 1990s stands to the north, flanking the canal. This has no ground floor windows but contains a restaurant at first floor level with large windows jettied out over the towpath. The roof is of slate tile. The canalside area is used by the public house for outside tables, some of which are under large umbrellas. A car park to the west of the building is accessed from Bridge Road. From this side the building is accessed via a modern extension, which hides parts of the historic structure of the building. Short history An existing public house was re-built in the very early 19th century to face the canal and thereafter named ‘The Boat’. The ‘bistro’ or tea rooms occupies the site of former stables. The restaurant extension replaced a low range of assorted other buildings. It is believed that The Boat was the last building to be built in Stoke Bruerne with a thatched roof, c 1805/7. There is a projecting wing wall between the later extension (see reference to The Leggers Hut) and the thatched part of the pub. This may have been a requirement of the pub’s insurance company at the time of the extension and it was common for party walls to be built up above roof lines from the 1840s onward. There is a fire plate from the Britannia Assurance Co on the wall facing the canal. Assessment of significance As a Grade II listed building The Boat Inn is considered to be of special architectural and historic interest. It has also been identified as making an important positive contribution to the character and appearance of the Stoke Bruerne Conservation Area, as well as having some local historic interest relating to the wider social and economic history of the Grand Union Canal.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Vulnerabilities and issues The building has had a number of modiďŹ cations and additions of recent date which are considered to detract from its historic character and appearance including the entrance-way extension to its western elevation and the larger restaurant extension to its north. Use of the canalside to provide outdoor seating and tables for patrons softens the division between buildings and open spaces but does have some negative impact on the surroundings as a result of dropped litter, tables spreading outside the innâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s property and noise affecting surrounding properties.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic Feature: Navigation Inn (Character Area 1A) Description A public house of early 19th century construction with late 20th century extensions to the rear and overlooking the canal and including outside seating spaces adjacent to the canal towpath. It is of two storeys, built in limestone with a hipped tiled roof and has well preserved timber framed sash windows. Part of today’s car park formed a canal wharf. Short history This building was constructed as a public house in the early 19th century, after the construction of the canal, and was placed to take advantage of the passing trade on the canal as well as the relocated route of the road over Bridge No. 53. It was converted for use as a farmhouse but has now been converted back to its former commercial use. So far a building date has not been established, but it is somewhere between 1821 (when the previous landowner, Mrs Louisa Sheppard died and left it to her son) and 1835 (when the Grafton Estate convened a meeting of the Manorial Court there). From c 1845 to 1920 it was the home of the Savage family, who ran the brickworks and ultimately the mill. There was a wharf immediately below the bridge and partly still visible in the pub garden. Wagons could back up to a wall at ﬂoor height to transfer loads to and from boats. This may date from Savage’s tenancy, which began c 1845, for the towpath was rerouted about this time from the east to the west side of the canal. Assessment of signiﬁcance The Navigation Inn is not listed but is considered to make an important positive contribution to the character and appearance of the Stoke Bruerne Conservation Area. Vulnerabilities and issues The restoration of this building to its original use represents an enhancement of the conservation area. However, there is some potential for unsympathetic extension of the building or use of outdoor spaces around it to result in a negative impact on the character and appearance of the conservation area. The impact on the character and appearance of the conservation area of any proposals to alter this building should form a key consideration in planning decisions.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic Feature: Canal Cottage (Character Area 1A) Description A two storey house of mixed red, buff and blue brick with a hipped slate roof standing next to the dry lock No. 14. A basement level is exposed on the west side facing Bridge Road.

Short history This is a former lock keeper’s cottage built in the early 19th century and modernised in the 20th century. It forms part of the focal group of buildings around the village’s historic canalside area. It is believed to be one of the ﬁrst buildings in Stoke Bruerne to be roofed with slate. Assessment of signiﬁcance As a Grade II listed building, Canal House is considered to be of special historic and architectural interest. It forms part of an important group within the central part of the Stoke Bruerne Conservation Area, to which it makes an important positive contribution. It has group value with the listed canal locks to the east, for which it forms part of the setting. As a part of the wider landscape of the Grand Union Canal, this building also has some regional historical interest. Vulnerabilities and issues The building is currently used as a single dwelling (its original function) and is well maintained with an attractive and cared-for garden forming part of its setting. As a former lock-keeper’s cottage, the adjacent canalside and the dry lock No.14, also contribute to the setting of the building. However, the intrusive element of the weighing machine, which occupies the lock, the poor condition and maintenance of the lock and some of the other notice boards and features surrounding the lock detract from the historic character and appearance of this setting. There is also some potential for seating and patio umbrellas associated with the adjacent public house to intrude into the setting of this building, which should be prevented.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic Feature: Sister Mary’s House (Character Area 1A) Description A two storey house of early 19th century construction, currently housing a restaurant, with some seating outside. It has a three bay frontage facing onto the canal with one doorway positioned between the left and centre ground floor windows (which are canted bay windows). A second doorway replaces the ground floor window to the right, with another door to the right. A former multi-paned shop window is located at ground floor level on the south facing elevation. The building is built in red brick with a decorative buff brick band of three courses between ground and first floor level. It has a hipped natural slate tiled roof with one end-on chimney stack to the left and one on the ridge towards the right. The building retains traditional timber framed sash windows. Short history Apart from its history as a private residence, which has included time as a shop selling goods for canal boat people, this house is notable as the former home of Sister Mary Ward, a noted resident who provided nursing care to the people of the Grand Union Canal and to local villagers. As a result of her rather antiquated mode of nursing dress, was presumed by them to be a nun. She appeared on This is Your Life in 1957 and was honoured with a BEM. There is a display dedicated to her in the National Waterways Museum. The house was built c 1850-51 according to the Northamptonshire Poll Books, by George Savage, using bricks from his brickyard. Sister Mary Ward’s grandfather, Jonathan Amos moved in as the first tenant and established the ropewalk at the rear. Assessment of significance The building is not listed but would be considered as making an important positive contribution to the character and appearance of the conservation area. And forms part of the setting of the listed canal locks to the west. As a former canal side shop the building has some regional value as part of the landscape of the Grand Union Canal, which is reinforced by its connection with a prominent figure associated with the history of the waterway. Vulnerabilities and issues The building currently has no interpretation reflecting its former use or association with Sister Mary Ward. However, as a semi-public building it does provide a point at which visitors can enter the buildings flanking the canal. One possible method of providing some interpretation would be through applying for a blue plaque commemorating Sister Mary Ward’s life.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic Feature: Church of St Mary the Virgin and tombs around the church (Character Area 1B) Description Church. C14 and C15 with late C12 origins; restored 1853 by E. F, Law, vestry and organ chamber and alterations to chancel by E. Swinfen Harris 1879, further restoration of 1901. Coursed squared limestone; lead and copper roofs. Chancel, vestry and organ chamber, aisled nave, north and south porches and west tower. 3bay chancel has 3-light Perpendicular east window, 2-light windows to south with Ytracery and trefoil to heads, and chamfered priest’s door to south, all with hood moulds. Plain stone-coped parapet of ironstone and ﬁne limestone east gable cross probably of 1879 and designed by E. Swinfen Harris. External covered stairway of 1879 on north side of chancel leads to rood screen gallery door inside church and has blocked hollow-chamfered door. Nave has 4-bay clerestory of circular windows with moulded stone surrounds and plain ironstone-coped parapet. Stone dated 1594 to middle of parapet to south side, probably recording date of repair or rebuilding.

The large grave plot in the immediate foreground of the picture is that of the Reverend Lee, Rector of Stoke Bruerne during the period of change in the 1840s and 50s, while the graves to the right of that are of the Savage family, including George Savage, whose memorial stone has been vandalised and broken.

The War Memorial carries the name of Sister Annie Bull form Stoke Bruerne (unique inclusion of female).

Assessment of signiﬁcance As a Grade II* listed building, the Church of St Mary the Virgin is considered to be of more than special historic and architectural interest. As such, it is considered to be of national importance and rates as the most important building within the village. Vulnerabilities and issues The church is only used occasionally. Its condition has not deteriorated signiﬁcantly although if the lack of use continues it is likely that it will gradually worsen. Ideally, the District Council, Parish Council and wider village community should work with the Rector and Parochial Church Council to increase the use of the church, possibly by promoting a wider number of community uses to ensure that the building is preserved as a focal point for the village, which is appreciated as such and maintained to a satisfactory standard.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic Feature: South portal to Blisworth Tunnel (Character Area 2A) Description A canal tunnel portal with a rounded arched entrance and brick retaining wall to the hill slope with a string course or band running above the arch at the foot of a parapet and a second as coping to the top of the parapet. A section of tunnel lining lies on the bank to the right of the tunnel portal and a number of plaques are displayed on the portal wall. Short history The listing description of the tunnel recognises the importance of this structure as a part of the Blisworth tunnel, which is one of the longest tunnels built on Britain’s canal network and has been in operation since 1805. Construction of the tunnel and servicing the passage of boats through it played a very important role in the development of the village in the late 18th and early 19th century. The tunnel underwent renovation, including relining of part of its course during the 1980s and a section of the new lining is displayed on the bank to the right of the portal with a plaque recording the event. Assessment of signiﬁcance As a Grade II listed building the tunnel portal is considered to be of special historic and architectural interest importance. As a symbolic part of one of the most important engineering works on the course of the Grand Union Canal, the portal has both national and local historic interest. It also makes a signiﬁcant contribution to the character of the local area as a landmark and symbol of Stoke Bruerne’s canal history. Vulnerabilities and issues The canal portal is in a good state of repair and has some restricted interpretation. Its contribution to the historic character of the area might be enhanced slightly through some additional interpretation, although provision of this should not harm the setting of the listed building and, in particular views of it from along the canal and from the embankment above it.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic Feature: Tug store (Character Area 2A) Description A single storey red brick building, with blue brick quoins, flat window arches and decorative courses. The front elevation, facing the canal has two doors and two windows and two further windows are present at each end. All openings are currently secured with steel shutters and doors and are padlocked, barred or otherwise well secured. The building is not currently in use. A previous planning permission for its use as a blacksmith’s forge lapsed following the death of the previous tenant. Short history This building was constructed in 1902 and provided storage for parts and fuel for the canal’s steam tugs as well as a blacksmith’s forge for repair work. A recent owner intended to re-establish the use of the building as a forge and re-equipped the building for this purpose, although his untimely death has prevented this. The building is in the ownership of British Waterways. Assessment of significance The building forms part of a significant group of canal-related structures at the south portal of the Blisworth tunnel. It is not listed but would be considered as part of the setting of the listed tunnel portal with a strong connection with its use. It also has a wider significance as part of the landscape of the Grand Union Canal and local value as part of Stoke Bruerne’s historic association with the canal. Vulnerabilities and issues The tug store is currently only interpreted through the museum’s audio tour and a small plaque linked with this. It is not publicly accessible and the lack of use is likely to affect its long-term survival. The building has been equipped as a blacksmith’s forge and therefore has considerable potential as an educational resource, if better linked with the museum, although the planning permission for this use has now lapsed.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic Feature: Stables (Character Area 2A) Description A late 19th century canalside stable building, currently publicly accessible with no doors. It is built in red brick with a modern corrugated metal sheet roof and modern wooden benches to the front.

Short history This building provided shelter for boat horses at the foot of the boat horse path over Blisworth Hill (i.e. at the point where they were unharnessed from the boats, which were propelled through the tunnel by other means). The building no longer has a permanent use, although it has been used occasionally to display art produced by local school children Assessment of significance Although this building is not listed it forms part of the group of structures at the southern portal of the Blisworth tunnel and is connected with its use. As such, the building forms part of the listed tunnel portal’s setting. It also has some regional value as part of the landscape of the Grand Union Canal, as well as local interest as part of Stoke Bruerne’s canal history. Vulnerabilities and issues The building does not have a use at present and is not securable. As such it is subject to some vandalism, particularly graffiti, and may be used for antisocial activities. Interpretation of the structure is provided through the museum’s audio trail and an associated small plaque, as well as the benches to the front, which have sloping legs symbolising the canal horses pulling the boats. Providing some means of securing the building at times when it is not under the surveillance of passing visitors would be an important first step in protecting this historic building from vandalism. Providing a new use for the structure, preferably with some connection to the museum and its collections should also be considered as a means of interpreting it.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic Feature: Rectory Bridge (Character Area 2A) Description The site of the former rectory bridge includes a narrowing of the canal channel with a ‘build out’ from the western canal bank for the former bridge abutment. This is now very overgrown and creates a pinch point in views along the canal.

Short history Construction of the Grand Union Canal through Stoke Bruerne cut through the landholdings of the village rectory and, in particular, divided the house to the west of the canal from the rectory fish ponds to the east. As an important member of the community the rector of the Parish was compensated for the inconvenience caused by the construction of the canal through the provision of a new bridge joining the two parts of the land holding. The bridge has now been removed, although the abutment remains as a reminder of its presence. A stone wall remains on the south side of the bridge which was built for the rector at the same time. Assessment of significance As an undesignated archaeological feature the site of the former bridge and the surviving abutment would rate as of local interest. Its significance lies in the social history of the canal in the local setting. Vulnerabilities and issues The site of the abutment is not marked or interpreted. There might be some possible threat to its survival, were a scheme required to remove it as an obstacle to navigation.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic Feature: Tunnel spoil earthworks (Character Area 2A) Description Several large earthwork mounds are located along the course of the tunnel from Stoke Bruerne to Blisworth, providing a guide to the course of the tunnel from above the ground. A number of these include air shafts running down to the tunnel. They are all overgrown with mature trees some standing amongst thick woodland whilst others are isolated within arable fields. Short history These mounds represent the up-cast spoil from the digging of shafts down to the level of the tunnel. They date from the first years of the 19th century and provide a good reminder of the engineering processes involved in the construction of the features of the canal network. Assessment of significance The Blisworth tunnel is one of the most significant engineering works of the Grand Union Canal and as such is a nationally important historic feature. However, the underground course of the tunnel is hidden from the public view unless entered by boat and, as such, the spoil earthworks represent one of the more immediately visible elements of the structure. They are best seen from the top of Boat House Road. Vulnerabilities and issues The spoil heaps are not currently interpreted in any way. The current management of the earthworks is not considered to have a significant negative effect on their interest, although any loss of the mounds as a result of agriculture or earth moving should be strongly resisted. Ideally, at least one of these mounds should be appropriately interpreted and the importance of the mounds in the views from the north of the study area should be recognised, possibly through extension of the Special Landscape Area.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic Feature: Winding hole (modern) (Character Area 2A) Description The winding hole is a widening of the canal, reinforced with modern corrugated metal sheet hoarding. It is used to ‘wind’ or turn boats and is an important feature for the modern use of the canal.

Short history This is a modern feature built in 1976 to overcome water shortage caused by lengthy pleasure craft descending the locks merely to turn round. Assessment of signiﬁcance This feature is not considered to be of any particular historic importance, although it does have educational value for visitors to see how boats use the canal, as well as providing an important facility for the canal’s ongoing use. Vulnerabilities and issues The corrugated metal sheeting used to support the canal bank is out of keeping with the historic materials of the canal environment, although it has been used extensively for modern repairs, albeit in a less visible way. Some alteration to the structure might be considered to reduce the impact of the materials.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic Feature: Site of quarry, tramway and loading wharf (Quarry Field) (Character Area 2A) Description This area includes the site of a former wharf, which served a stone quarry in the field to the east of the canal. It now forms a slightly raised section of the towpath, retaining the coping stones and other materials. The quarry railway ran back into the field to the north east where the stone quarry was located. The field is presumed to be where the intended course of the canal and first-attempted tunnel would have run. A very wet area in the west of the field at the foot of the slope up to the former plateway (see below) may indeed represent the course of the first route of the canal. The plateway otherwise covers a large part of this former course. The quarry is marked by a small observable depression cut into the steep south-west facing slope of the hill with a neck leading out towards the canal. Some of the 20” gauge rails are still present and the museum owns a railway truck (currently stored at Ellesmere Port). Short history This stone quarry was operated as a short-lived venture by the Grand Junction Canal Company. It is not shown as in use on the historic Ordnance Survey maps or parish enclosure map of 1844. Assessment of significance This feature has some local interest as a part of the development and use of the land surrounding the canal. Vulnerabilities and issues This feature is not interpreted and the field containing the quarry, tramway and possible course of the canal is not accessible to the public despite being owned by British Waterways. It would be possible to interpret the original ‘head shunt’ in the towpath with the use of different paving materials.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic Feature: Locks Number 16 -20 (Character Area 2B) Description: A flight of five canal locks (plus the two in Character Area 1A making seven) with intervening canal pounds of varying length between approximately 150 and 80 metres. Like Lock 15 (see above), they are all constructed of dark red brick with some Staffordshire blue brick copings. They have wooden lock gates with black and white painted wooden balance beams. They are narrow, deep structures which provide alternate moments of rapidly moving, turbulent water and others of stillness and quiet. Short history All of these locks except Lock 20 are original. The duplicate locks built in the 1830s in parallel to an earlier flight of locks, to increase the speed of boats navigating the lock flight were filled in. The duplicate lock 20 was converted for use as a side pond. Date stones appear to record the replacement of lock gates, suggesting a phase of refurbishment in the 1860s and 1870s. Some rebuilding of the steps and surrounding structures in the early 20th century is also recorded. Presumably the adjacent locks remain as infilled, sub-surface features. Assessment of significance All of these locks have been designated as Grade II listed buildings and are therefore considered to be of special historic and architectural interest. Vulnerabilities and issues As historic buildings and functioning canal locks these structures have ongoing maintenance requirements. It is important that wherever possible the historic fabric is retained in preference to replacement with modern materials. However, in line with English Heritage’s guidelines, where historic fabric must be replaced this should be done in such a way as to make clear the difference between the original, historic elements and replaced sections. The adjacent infilled locks are not interpreted in any way. It may be possible to excavate at least a few of them down to coping level, if these survive, as a means of interpretation.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic Feature: Stoke Wharf and transshipment point (Character Area 2B) Description A piece of land, now substantially overgrown with thick perennial weeds and scrub, which belongs to South Northamptonshire Council. It lies next to the canal towpath just below Lock No. 20 and marks the start of the former plateway (see separate gazetteer entry). This was only part of the complex. It was probably used for storage rather than direct transhipment of goods. The plateway ended, it is believed, at the entrance to the complex and trucks were drawn across the surface of the wharf, not on rails. A plan of Northampton Plateway Wharf at Far Cotton which succeeded this in 1805 (the rails being recycled and relaid from Blisworth Arm to Far Cotton) shows the rails ending at a weighbridge on the edge of the wharf. Stoke Bruerne Wharf was most likely similar. Short history This is the transhipment point where goods were unloaded from barges to be taken by horse drawn wagon along the iron plateway to Blisworth for onward carriage by canal. For the short period between 1800 and 1805 this formed one of the busiest inland ports in England as thousands of tons of goods were loaded and unloaded from boats on the incomplete Grand Junction Canal. Presumably this included a dock and wharf, although no evidence of these was observable. However, the large pond in the adjoining field does look as though it may also be related to the use of the canal and might also form a part of this site. Assessment of significance As part of the historic plateway this site and any archaeological remains that might be present would be considered to rate as of, at least, regional archaeological interest. Vulnerabilities and issues This site is not currently accessible by the public and neither is its historic interest interpreted. The thick growth of weeds and scrub make it very difficult to determine whether there are any archaeological remains present. As it is in public ownership there is some potential to open the site to the public, although this would require resources to make it suitable for public use, to provide interpretation and facilities and to maintain it. As part of a larger public area, including the lock side ponds (see separate gazetteer entry) and the towpaths within the southern canal corridor this might form part of community managed ‘local park’.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic Feature: Side ponds (Character Areas 1A and 2B) Description Brick and stone lined ponds with two pools divided by a central wall and connected to the adjacent locks by paddle sluices under the towpath. They are enclosed by white and black box sectioned rail fences. The lack of use of these ponds has allowed aquatic vegetation to develop and they now support a range of wildlife including plants, birds and invertebrates. Short history These ponds were built as a response to the shortage of water from the canal’s summit level down the flight of locks. Their operation should take water emptying out of the locks, which is then reused when the lock is next filled. However, they are now used rarely, if ever. Although useful features in the past, the need for these passed when the rising main and pump was laid in to recirculate the lockage water from Bottom Lock to the Top Lock. This can now return 1.5 locks of water per hour. It only became economically possible to do this when the electric distribution grid reached Bottom Lock c 1938. The entire installation was overhauled and replaced c 1976 at the same time as the Winding Hole at the tunnel end was dug. Assessment of significance As part of the historic mechanism of the flight of locks, each of which is a listed building, these structures would be regarded as curtilage structures of the listed buildings and therefore covered by the same protection and of the same level of significance, i.e. as of special historic and architectural interest. They also relate to the regionally important Grand Union Canal and the history of its development and operation. Vulnerabilities and issues These side ponds are no longer used and are not now fully maintained. They might be considered a cause for concern as regards safety. In places the stonework and brickwork has deteriorated and may need replacing or repairing to ensure that they are in sound condition. These ponds also provide a valuable wildlife resource that could be better exploited, perhaps even forming an educational resource. The historic function of these ponds is not presented or interpreted. Subject to necessary approvals, British Waterways has plans to install a dipping platform.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic Feature: Former brickworks and arm (west side) (Character Area 2B) Description A nature reserve including a reed bed, rough and damp grassland, a number of ponds and the redundant side arm of the canal. As well as a variety of plant life, the ponds provide an important habitat for invertebrates, and a number of dragonfly species occur on the reserve. White-legged damselflies have been recorded here, a species which has a very limited distribution in Northamptonshire. Otherwise the site has an uneven terrain covered by tussock grass, reeds and scrub as well as many other herbaceous and woody species, with some scrub developing to provide larger trees. Short history This reserve is an old brickworks. This was commenced on land leased from the Duke of Grafton by George Savage c1845. An earlier brickworks were probably nearer the tunnel in what later became the cutting. Possibly Joseph Ludlam, one of the tunnel contractors, excavated for bricks near here, but it would only have been on the authorised line of the canal. In 1846 George Savage was allowed to make a new dock off the canal on behalf of the Duke of Grafton to serve the Stoke Bruerne Brick and Tile Works, which operated until the 1920s. The redundant clay pits and canal arm provide a number of valuable habitats for wildlife and are now managed by the Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire and Peterborough. Assessment of significance This site has some limited interest as an archaeological resource recording the history of the Grand Junction Canal and its construction and it could be used as an educative resource to interpret the canal and the industries that it supported. Remains of buildings associated with manufacturing of bricks survive above ground and may survive as subsurface deposits. The remains of a two storey building, ironwork and piles of original bricks survive although not easily visible due to the growth of vegetation. Vulnerabilities and issues The site’s historical interest is not currently presented. Interpretation of the site could be related to the National Waterways Museum and its collections and would be valuable in presenting the impact of canal building on the wider landscape in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The continuing management of the site by the Wildlife Trust should ensure the long term integrity of the site and the preservation of the brick pit and former canal arm as archaeological features.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic Feature: Horse plate railway (Character Area 2A and 2B) Description A long linear archaeological feature in places marked by an earthwork bank and/ or including flanking stone lined drainage ditches. It accompanies the course of the canal and the boat horse path over Blisworth Hill and was superseded by both features. Archaeological excavation has revealed some evidence for the preservation of strata forming the makeup of an embankment bank and infilled sections of the ditches. Short history After the unsuccessful first attempt of the excavation of the Blisworth tunnel, an iron plate railway (or plateway) was constructed from a point below the current lock No. 20 crossing Blisworth Hill and rejoining the Grand Junction Canal at Blisworth. Horses pulled wagons with unflanged wheels on the rails. This was the first iron railway in southern England, opening from 1800. Following the successful excavation of the Blisworth tunnel and the opening of the canal between Stoke Bruerne and Blisworth in 1805 the plateway was no longer required and was dismantled. The iron rails were sold off and transported elsewhere. The former course of the plateway is now partly accessible on the canal towpath and the boat horse road, as well as a new path created by British Waterways and South Northamptonshire Council, which passes through woodland in the north of the study area, on the east side of the canal’s cutting at the approach to the Blisworth tunnel. Assessment of significance The plateway was the first iron railway in lowland England and as such should be regarded as a very important archaeological feature, particularly given the absence of later development along a large part of its former route. This monument is strongly related to the regionally, or even nationally important Grand Union Canal and the significant engineering achievement of the Blisworth tunnel. As such the plateway should be considered as of, at least, regional archaeological importance. Vulnerabilities and issues Opening up of a larger part of the plateway’s course has provided an important resource for presenting the development of the historic landscape surrounding Stoke Bruerne. However, this currently lacks interpretation. One example of the stone sleepers used has been uncovered and now lies beside the newly created track in an unconserved state. An interpretation board describing the history of the plateway lies on the towpath some distance below it and therefore seems particularly out of place. There is a small display concerning the plateway in the National Waterways Museum, which might be successfully related to the feature through interpretation.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic Feature: Ropewalk (Character Area 1A) Description This feature is recorded on historic maps as a long, linear feature on a north - south alignment on the east side of the school rooms to the rear of the National Waterways Museum. The space has now been truncated by the garden of the property adjoining British Waterway’s car park. Short history Rope walks were long narrow spaces used to lay out long strands of rope to be twisted together to make thicker sections. They were at one time a common landscape feature. This example was most probably used by the canalside shop, later Sister Mary’s House, which sold supplies, including rope to the canal users in the 19th and early 20th century. Assessment of signiﬁcance As a common archaeological feature, which has not been well preserved, the rope walk would not be regarded as of only local historic interest. The potential connection of the rope walk with one of the village’s notable inhabitants does provide it with some additional local historic interest as does the connection of its use with the operation of the canal. Vulnerabilities and issues This feature is not currently publicly accessible or interpreted in any way. It could perhaps be interpreted as a linear feature as part of the Museum. If in British Waterways ownership (see note 12 below) the Ropewalk could be accessed through the rear museum building and enclosed or partially enclosed with rope making machinery demonstrating how rope was made or otherwise interpreted with panels. The addition of the Ropewalk to the museum collection would enhance the attraction of the museum.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Historic Feature: Rectory fish ponds (Character Area 2A) Description The recorded sites of three fish ponds belonging to the rector of Stoke Bruerne in the 18th century and in part destroyed by the construction of the Grand Junction Canal. The site of these ponds now lies within the field to the east of the Grand Union Canal, which also contains the former stone quarry and tramway (see above). The positions of them can just be traced as shallow depressions. Short history The date of origin of these ponds is uncertain. They were certainly present in the late 18th century when the construction of the Grand Junction Canal cut through them, although they may be of earlier post-medieval or even medieval origin. They were no longer recorded on the parish’s enclosure map of 1844 and had presumably been infilled prior to the opening of the stone quarry. Assessment of significance A collection of infilled post-medieval or even medieval fish ponds would probably not be regarded as of more than regional archaeological importance, although their interest in terms of the social history of their destruction for the construction of the canal as part of the wider changes to the landscape should be appreciated. Vulnerabilities and issues There is currently very little interpretation of these features. The land they are on, which is owned by British Waterways, is not currently accessible to the public.

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Historic Feature: Old Chapel The Old Chapel, a former house of worship, is an important historic building of some character located off the green next to the Museum Description The building is built with red brick with buff brick dressings to windows, slate roof and iron boundary railings to front.

Short history A date above the front door is inscribed 1879. This chapel was erected at a cost of £250 on land given by George Savage (whose nearby brickyard supplied the bricks). The chapel was sold in 1976 at which time its members transferred to Roade or Shutlanger. The building was subsequently used as a private museum of agricultural bygones and was, until recently, a café. Assessment of significance The building is a significant feature in the development of the village representing the growth of non-conformism in the area during the mid/late 19th century. Though architecturally unremarkable it is typical of many other chapels from the same period, is characteristic of its type and contributes to the variety of Stoke Bruerne’s built environment. Vulnerabilities and issues Until early 2007 it was operated as a tea rooms and restaurant and formerly, as a restaurant, art gallery and craft workshops incorporating The Laurels, a residential house (presumably the rectory or vicarage) within the grounds of The Old Chapel. The Laurels and part of the grounds originally shared with The Old Chapel were sold by British Waterways in 2007 and a planning application has recently been submitted for change of use to residential. The Old Chapel had been sympathetically restored with a gallery floor accessed by a spiral staircase. The Old Chapel is currently let on a lease for commercial business purposes. Without a permanent use the building is in danger of falling into disrepair. Issues There would be scope for utilising this character building as part of an expanded museum and/or visitor centre, especially if the Mill Dock basin, lying between The Old Chapel and the museum were to be fully or partially restored.

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APPENDIX 2 – PLANNING POLICY CONTEXT The statutory duties and controls which affect the conservation of Stoke Bruerne are enshrined in the following legislation and policy guidance. Acts of Parliament • Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979 – covers scheduled monuments and archaeology. • Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 – covers listed buildings and conservation areas. • Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 – gives full protection to most birds, some other animals, including all bats, and some plants. • British Waterways Act 1995 – confers various duties relating to conservation of the built heritage, archaeology and ecology. National Planning Policy and Guidance In the past, national guidance has been provided in Planning Policy Guidance (PPG) documents on a series of topics. Most of these have now been updated to the newer versions, known as Planning Policy Statements (PPS). Of relevance to this study are: • PPS1 – Delivering Sustainable Development (2005) emphasises that high quality inclusive design should be promoted in the layout of new developments and individual buildings in terms of function and impact, not just for the short term, but over the lifetime of the development.

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• PPG 14 – Transport whose objectives are to integrate planning and transport at the national, regional, strategic and local level and to promote more sustainable transport choices both for carrying people and for moving freight. • PPS7 – Sustainable Development in Rural Areas (2004) promotes economic activity in rural areas and mixed uses that maintain community vitality. It stresses the importance of accessibility by means other than the private car in line with PPS13 – Transport. It also supports the re-use of existing buildings and recognizes the potential for rural tourism and leisure activities. • PPG15 – Planning and the Historic Environment (1994) urges local authorities to maintain and strengthen their commitment to the stewardship of the historic environment through adequate policies and specialist advice. There is a general presumption in favour of preserving listed buildings and applicants for listed building consent must be able to justify their proposals. However, productive use is the key to preservation and this entails a balance of economic vitality and the management of change. • PPG 16 – Archaeology and Planning. This PPG sets out the government’s policy on archaeological remains on land and how they should be preserved or recorded both in an urban setting and in the countryside. It gives advice on the handling of archaeological remains and discoveries through the development plan and development control systems, including the weight to be given to them in planning decisions and planning conditions.

Stoke Bruerne - Conservation Plan

Regional policy

Northamptonshire Structure Plan

• The Milton Keynes South Midlands Sub-regional Strategy (SRS) covers the growth area of Milton Keynes, Northamptonshire, and parts of Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire. The Strategy sets out the scale of development until 2021 – highlighting the need for planned, sustainable communities with adequate infrastructure for vital services such as transportation, health and education services. The Strategy promotes the creation of sustainable communities – well-designed places where people want to live, with jobs, facilities, services, and strong communities. • The Regional Spatial Strategy for the East Midlands (RSS8). Following the enactment of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004, Regional Planning Guidance (RPG) became part of the statutory development plan and has been renamed as a Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS). RPG8 therefore became RSS8. The latest version was published in March 2005. A draft RSS was published by the East Midlands Regional Assembly in September 2006.

Prior to the introduction of the new planning system the Northamptonshire Structure Plan was the planning blueprint for the County and set out the land use strategy for Northamptonshire. With the introduction of the new system the Regional Spatial Strategy for the East Midlands and the Milton Keynes and South Midlands Sub-Regional Strategy will now provide the strategic land use planning context for Northamptonshire. These documents are prepared by the Regional Assembly and approved by the Secretary of State. Despite the approval of these two documents the adopted Structure Plan continued in force until 28 September 2007, except where policies in the RSS/SubRegional Strategy updated and therefore superseded its policies. A small number of Structure Plan policies are saved beyond September 2007 because they provide the policy base to supplementary planning guidance or because they will continue to ﬁll a policy gap not ﬁlled by other documents. The Secretary of State has agreed that the following policies can be saved beyond September 2007: GS5, GS6, SDA1, T3, T9, T10, T12 and T13. Policy T13 relates to canals and other inland waterways Policy T13: Provision will be made for the use of canals and other inland waterways for freight, provided that it will not have an unacceptable impact on the environment or local amenity.

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The South Northamptonshire Local Plan and the emerging Local Development Framework The South Northamptonshire Local Plan was adopted in October 1997. However, the Council is now responsible for the preparation of a new document, the Local Development Framework (LDF) for South Northamptonshire. LDFs are the new way of setting out planning policies and proposals for an area. They replace the existing system of Local and Structure Plans. The new frameworks will be “rolled out” over the next 3 or more years, with existing plans becoming less important over the same time. A Local Development Framework (LDF) will be a portfolio of documents which may be prepared at different times, and cover different subjects and areas, but together provide a “Spatial Strategy” for the district. The timetable for producing the various Development Plan Documents is set out in the Council’s Local Development Scheme. So far the Council has published an Issues Report and Urban Capacity Study. Saved policies from the South Northamptonshire Local Plan provide a comprehensive range of policies for safeguarding the special interest of conservation areas and historic buildings. The relevant planning policies are EV 1 to 36 inclusive.

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APPENDIX 3 - CONSULTATION STATEMENT A.

Preliminary public consultation prior to preparation of the document

Before the preparation of this document, a number of bodies, organisations and individuals were consulted for their preliminary views about Stoke Bruerne village, the canal and the wider study area. The purpose of the consultation was to establish what were perceived by the consultees as the main issues. The preliminary consultation period ran throughout September 2007. A consultation leaﬂet and questionnaire was delivered to all the residential properties within the study area and posted representatives of the following bodies: British Waterways South Northamptonshire Council The Waterways Trust Northamptonshire Enterprises Ltd East Midlands Tourism Ward Member, Northants County Council River Nene Regional Park Inland Waterways Association Friends of the Canal Museum West Northamptonshire Development Corporation Leader, South Northamptonshire Council Reserves Manager, Northants Wildlife Northamptonshire County Council Stoke Bruerne Parish Council Stoke Bruerne Boat Company Stoke Bruerne Canal Partnership

In brief, the questionnaire asked with regard to the village, canal and wider area: • What are the most ‘positive’ historic aspects and what historic assets do you value most? • What detracts from the special character and quality of the village and the canal? • What do you think are the main issues concerning the character and appearance of the village and canal? Other comments were also invited. A drop-in ‘surgery’ was held in Stoke Bruerne Village Hall from 10 till 1 on Saturday 29th September. Two consultants from The Conservation Studio were in attendance. Over 25 people attended the surgery. Various discussions were held and questionnaires were available for written comments.

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Consultation on draft Stoke Bruerne Conservation Plan December 2007January 2008

The Stoke Bruerne Conservation Plan Consultation Draft (November 2007) was made available to the public for consultation between 3rd December and 4th January 2008. The five-week public consultation was launched on December 3rd with a local press release from British Waterways and South Northamptonshire Council and, for the during of the consultation period, an exhibition summarising the Plan was displayed at The National Waterways Museum in Stoke Bruerne where there were also hard copies of the Plan for inspection and questionnaires for responses. Residents of the parish were informed about the Consultation Draft Plan via GRASS, the community newsletter, and invited to comment. The following organisations and bodies were individually consulted: Stoke Bruerne Canal Partnership; British Waterways; South Northamptonshire Council; The Waterways Trust; Northamptonshire Enterprises Ltd; East Midlands Tourism; Ward Member, Northants County Council; River Nene Regional Park; Inland Waterways Association; Friends of the Canal Museum; West Northamptonshire Development Corporation; Leader, South Northamptonshire Council; Reserves Manager, Northants Wildlife; Northamptonshire County Council; Stoke Bruerne Parish Council; Stoke Bruerne Boat Company. Responses were received from representatives of the Stoke Bruerne Canal Partnership, South Northamptonshire Council, Northamptonshire County Council, Inland Waterways Association (Northampton Branch) and Stoke Bruerne Parish Council plus detailed historical information form David Blagrove, local historian. British Waterways’ views were fed into the process during the preparation of the Consultation Draft. Responses mostly related to factual matters, points of information, errors, omissions and clarification. In almost all cases the document was amended in line with the consultee’s comments. Three substantial new issues were raised as part of the consultation and were added to the revised document: • Consider “filling the basin with artificial material with a boat in it and paddlegear” as an option for the dry lock at Lock 14. • Consider “delineating and interpreting the extent of the Mill Dock at grade so land can still be used for recreational use” as an option for former Mill Dock. • Emphasise the limited lifespan of the canalside poplar trees beside the Museum and any proposed felling and/or replacement.

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APPENDIX 4 – SELECTED BIBLIOGRAPHY D. Blagrove – Two Centuries of Service (Wharfside, 2005) D. Blagrove – The village and community of Stoke Bruerne and why a Conservation Plan is needed (unubl., 2007) D. Blagrove – A brief history of Stoke Bruerne and Shutlanger K. Clarke (ed.) – Conservation Plans in Action (English Heritage, 1999) Visitor Survey, Stoke Bruerne – British Waterways Touchstone Heritage – Stoke Bruerne Interpretive Plan (Glamorgan University, 2002) B. Zeepvat - An archeological survey and evaluation on the Stoke Bruerne Plateway (Archaeological Services Ltd, 2001) Stoke Bruerne Conservation Plan – (British Waterways, 2001)

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