Polperro

Polperro is a beautiful and historically significant fishing settlement in Cornwall, now better known as a popular tourist destination. It is a major heritage asset in England but is noticeably suffering from tourist load and, moreover, an apparent lack of local planning policy, guidelines or practises. This academic study looked at the typology and use of the village and aspects of heritage harm. 

The whole village is recognised as a conservation area and most buildings are intact in original form. Although there has been some erosion of the historic fabric over the years most of the evident damage relates to poor townscape design such as inappropriate building interventions, poor use of street materials, unsightly civic furniture and, most particularly, rampant misuse of signage. The signage in particular is evdience of tourist load, but does the excess add to or detract from economic viability? 

The study concluded that the village should be far better protected as a heritage asset for residents and visitors, and to assist economic viability. This should include recognising and supporting local culture and characteristics, improving the civic design and encouraging a progression of policy and guidance led future improvement with all local stakeholders.