Why are mud walls in Whittlesey being protected?

The mud walls in Whittlesey are being protected because they are rare 18th and 19th-century structures that are in danger of disappearing, and their loss threatens the town's historic identity.

What is an Article Four direction in relation to Whittlesey's mud walls?

An Article Four direction means that any alterations or demolition of the remaining 28 mud walls in Whittlesey now require formal planning permission, removing permitted development rights.

When were the mud walls in Whittlesey constructed and why?

The mud walls in Whittlesey were constructed in the 18th and 19th centuries, partly in response to the brick tax which was in place to raise money for the American War of Independence.

Home / Environment / Ancient Mud Walls Get New Protection in Whittlesey

Ancient Mud Walls Get New Protection in Whittlesey

9 Feb

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Summary

Rare 18th and 19th-century mud walls in Whittlesey are now protected.
A new planning direction prevents alterations to the 28 remaining walls.
These walls, a unique feature of Whittlesey, were built due to an old brick tax.

Ancient Mud Walls Get New Protection in Whittlesey

Rare mud walls dating from the 18th and 19th centuries in Whittlesey are receiving enhanced protection to prevent their complete disappearance. These unique structures were originally built as a cost-effective boundary solution, a practice spurred by the American War of Independence-era brick tax active between 1784 and 1850.

Fenland District Council has enacted an Article Four direction, meaning any modifications or demolition of the 28 surviving mud walls in the Cambridgeshire town now require formal planning permission. This measure addresses concerns that the walls are fragile and declining, with their loss undermining Whittlesey's historic character.

Conservation officers noted that while seven walls are already listed, 21 sections lacked formal protection. The new direction removes permitted development rights for alterations and demolition, providing greater enforcement power. Residents are reminded that these historical walls are rare and require preservation, contrasting with modern preferences for fences.