MEM23545 - Porlock Weir (Place)

Summary

The historic core of Porlock Weir is depicted on the Porlock Tithe Map and later historic Ordnance Survey maps.

Please read the Exmoor National Park Historic Environment Record .

Type and Period (1)

Protected Status

Full Description

The historic core of Porlock Weir is depicted on the Porlock Tithe Map and later First and Second Edition 25 inch Ordnance Survey maps. [1-3] The Ordnance Survey MasterMap shows that the town has extended to the southeast from the historic core since the Second Edition 25 inch Ordnance Survey map. [4] The Conservation Area for Porlock Weir was subject to a Character Appraisal that was published in 2004. [5] A new Conservation Area Character Appraisal was adopted in July 2022. It updates the appraisal carried out in 2004 [5] and was largely researched and written in 2012, then revised in 2021. There were no boundary changes proposed. Porlock Weir was originally designated as a Conservation Area in 1973. The settlement, in its remote coastal location, is one of the most picturesque and historically interesting settlements within the National Park. The village is grouped around a small harbour with an attractive tidal inlet, which can be controlled by lock gates. Above and to the west, it is largely enclosed by ancient woodland forming a dramatic backdrop. There are striking outward views across the curving shoreline of Porlock Bay towards the hills that terminate at Hurlstone Point. The woodland, beach and immediately adjoining coastline contribute greatly to the setting of the Conservation Area. The settlementʼs historic significance lies in its former importance as a port. While much of the earlier industrial use is not immediately evident some elements survive and on the west side of the lock in particular, the former working character of the harbour still seems close to the surface. In spite of relatively few buildings appearing on the statutory list, there are many with great intrinsic character, by virtue of their construction and location. The manner in which two of the early cottage rows have been built virtually out on to the beach is a particularly distinctive feature. Further details of the history and character of the settlement are provided in the report. [6]

Sources/Archives (7)

  • <1> Map: Cox, J. W.C.. 1841. Porlock Tithe Map and Apportionment. 13.3 inches : 1 mile.
  • <2> Map: Ordnance Survey. 1854-1901. County Series; 1st Edition 25 Inch Map. 1:2500.
  • <3> Map: Ordnance Survey. County Series; 2nd Edition (1st Revision) 25 Inch Map. 1:2500.
  • <4> Map: Ordnance Survey. 2016. MasterMap.
  • <5> Report: Fisher, J.. 2004. Porlock Weir: Conservation Area Character Appraisal. Exmoor National Park Authority.
  • <6> Report: Pratt, N. and Thurlow, T.. 2022. Porlock Weir Conservation Area: Appraisal document. Exmoor National Park Authority.
  • <7> Index: Charterhouse Environs Research Team. 2012. The CHERT Index of the Drawings and Sketches of the Reverend John Skinner. Vol 18 (1836 Devonshire), page 86.

External Links (0)

Other Statuses/References

  • Coastal Risk 2014: Flood Zone 2 tidal
  • Coastal Risk 2014: Flood Zone 3 tidal
  • Coastal Risk 2016: Flood Zone 2 tidal
  • Coastal Risk 2016: Flood Zone 3 tidal
  • Local Heritage List Status (Listed)
  • Local Plan - Historic Core
  • Shoreline Management Plan 2 (0-20)
  • Shoreline Management Plan 2 (20-50)
  • Shoreline Management Plan 2 (50-100)

Map

Location

Grid reference Centred SS 8645 4785 (324m by 335m) Historic mapping
Map sheet SS84NE
Civil Parish PORLOCK, WEST SOMERSET, SOMERSET

Finds (0)

Related Monuments/Buildings (0)

Related Events/Activities (2)

Record last edited

Apr 25 2024 12:48PM

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