(1) 8. Conclusions

8.1 Shopland Churchyard has a special character worthy of preservation and enhancement. Its character is derived from its verdant environment, its sense of isolation and abandonment, and its particular historic and local interest.

8.2 Although Conservation Area designation is rarely applied to small rural sites lacking in buildings, in this case it affords the most appropriate protection that is available given the combination of elements that contribute to its special character.

8.3 Low key intervention has up to now contributed to the special character of the churchyard, but some small scale improvements need to be made including clearing some of the scrub around graves and improving signage.

8.4 To preserve and enhance its particular assets in the long term, a management plan for the trees and boundary hedge is required, guided by a strategic plan for the overall site.