EXAMPLE ADVANCEDD EXAM BOOSTER P65

What to do with old buildings that have lost their use, for example old churches that no one
goes to or banks which have closed, is a huge headache for local councils. There is a range of
options, and to some the ideal solution will depend on the building in question. In this essay I
will highlight two of the main possibilities which are to demolish them or convert them into
flats.

Looking at demolition first, it is easy to see that if buildings are demolished, the space they
leave can be redeveloped into anything: an attractive square with a garden, where people can
meet and enjoy the local space, or a new building for a new activity the area and community
needs. With regards to the latter, this could be housing or a business use. However, some
cultural heritage would be lost.

On the other hand, converting old buildings into flats is also an attractive proposition. Much of
our history is contained in buildings and we can learn about our neighbourhood’s past from
learning about the former use of the buildings. Furthermore, old buildings often have more
character than new builds and create more attractive, people- friendly spaces. The downside is
they are often expensive to refurnish and the layout of something like a church or office block
may not be easily adapted into flats.

From my point of view, I think conserving old buildings is the most effective way of using public
buildings, as long as the building itself is attractive. Old buildings embody the history of the
area in contrast new builds are often bland and characterless.