Is my CO being over-zealous?

[Anonymous]

I don't think that we have any issue with the remit of conservation officers in general. Just some concern that there needs to be a balance between protection and practicality. Requiring LBC, architect's plans and a method statement to remove a 1970s gas appliance in a 500 year old property seems to us to be over playing the role somewhat.

 

[Anonymous]

There are three heather thatched buildings left in Northumberland as far as I am aware - what used to be a common roofing material (black thack) is now very rare indeed.

II* listed 18th century barn - re-thatched about 14 years ago and some neglect has obviously made leakage. The barn and house now up for sale. Noticed on Friday a swathe of black thack has been repaired on the front using reed. Looks terrible.

AAAAGGGGGHHHHHH!!!!!!