🏅 The Motoring Centre

Our inaugural Heritage Certificate of Recognition was presented to Matt Close of The Motoring Centre, 7-13 High St. in May '26.

The award recognised the long-established family business' commitment to improving an important gateway into Royal Leamington Spa through the removal of large advertising hoardings and closed fencing, revealing historic views of the railway arches and the Grade II listed All Saints' Church.

It might seem unusual to recognise the heritage contribution of a car sales forecourt sitting in one of the rare gaps in the Conservation Area — but it perfectly demonstrates the importance of the “setting” of historic buildings in planning and heritage terms.

When dismissing an appeal for a large student accommodation block on the site, the Planning Inspector highlighted how important these views are to the setting of Grade II listed All Saints Church, even from over 200m away. The Inspector noted that the railway arches and surrounding views:  “provide an insight into the development of the town and the reasons for it taking place…” and warned that losing them would:  “lead to an adverse effect on the area’s character.”

The decision also recognised the wider architectural and historical significance of the Conservation Area and concluded that: “the loss of these views would result in a significant erosion of the Listed Building’s setting.”

This enhancement demonstrates how thoughtful changes can improve the setting of heritage assets and strengthen the character of the town.

Warwickshire World article