Belper Civic Forum believes the ruling in favour of preserving what remains of this building is the right decision because it is an important part of the 18th and 19th century frontage of the town.

Many people will be unaware of its significance with beginnings in 1818/9 as a private school, later know as the town's grammar school (long before Herbert Strutt's).

Hopefully the building's owners will now take time to rethink their ideas and plan for a sympathetic re-use of the building in keeping with its character.

In this task, the Civic Forum wishes them well.

Meanwhile, Amber Valley Borough Council may wish to use the powers they have to make sure the building is properly protected and does not deteriorate any further.

It is one of the tasks of the Civic Forum to raise awareness of the history of our bricks (stone!) and mortar, not least because this contributes to Belper's place in the World Heritage site.

Janet Honey
Belper Civic Forum Chaiman