New board established to help protect borough's heritage and 'what makes Enfield special'

The civic centre board will bring together councillors and groups such as The Enfield Society to ensure local expertise plays a role in decision-making

Southgate fingerpost (credit Enfield Council) — A fingerpost in Southgate (credit Enfield Council)

A new board bringing together local experts and community voices is set to “play a key role” in protecting Enfield’s historic character.

Following a vote from councillors to approve changes to Enfield Council’s constitution at last week’s full council meeting, the civic centre will now establish a conservation and heritage advisory board.

The aim of the board is to ensure that the borough’s rich history – from its conservation areas and listed buildings to parks and green spaces – is properly considered as new developments come forward.

The new Conservative-led administration says the move will give residents “greater confidence” that local knowledge and heritage expertise is being utilised in future council decisions that might affect local neighbourhoods across Enfield.

While planning applications will continue to be determined through the council’s established planning processes, the council says the board will provide an “additional forum” for conservation and community interests, contributing to the development of policies designed to “safeguard the borough’s heritage for future generations”.

Council leader Alessandro Georgiou said: “This new board will put local insight and heritage expertise right at the heart of how we shape Enfield’s future, ensuring decisions are informed by those who truly understand our borough’s character and history.

“It shows our clear commitment to getting the balance right, delivering the growth our communities need while fiercely protecting what makes Enfield unique – its heritage, its green spaces, and its strong sense of what makes Enfield special.”

The board will bring together councillors and established organisations such as the Enfield Archaeological Society, Edmonton Hundred Historical Society, The Enfield Society and Southgate District Civic Voice.

In addition, local conservation area and friends of parks groups will be invited to take part when proposals affect their area, “ensuring that local voices are heard where it matters most”.

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