Key characteristics - Sway Tower conservation area

• small settlement dominated by Peterson’s Tower.
• generally linear development along Barrows Lane.
• scattered development along Flexford Lane.
• several high status farmhouses.
• assemblage of 19 century mass concrete buildings of national importance.
• built development dating from the early 19th century through to the 20 century.
• some inappropriate modern development.
• hedgerows, metal estate fencing, brick walls, rendered concrete walls, metal railings and large decorative metal gates.  Instances of wide verges adjacent to the road.
• narrow lane enclosed by trees and hedgerows.
• large individual mature tree specimens in prominent locations.
• significant views through the area to Peterson’s Tower and to the trial tower.
• only glimpsed views out of the area across arable land to the west and northeast.
• one Grade II* listed building.
• eight Grade II listed buildings.
• five curtilage listed buildings.
• additional eight buildings of local vernacular, or cultural interest.
• predominant building materials and detailing: mass concrete; render; brick; painted brick; weatherboard; clay tile, slate; asphalt; decorative barge boards;  simple side hung casement windows; vertical timber sliding sash windows; Crittall windows; panel doors;
• sounds, smells and general activity: quiet area with occasional road traffic. Dominated by countryside sounds and smells.