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Recent Use of Dry Stone Work by local Authorities in Great Britain as an Ornamental & Historic Resource for Landscaping Projects: Advantages & Disadvantages

Traditional Use of Dry Stone Walls in Britain
Field boundaries, roadside and garden walls; both free-standing and retaining. Little ornamental use.
Changes in the 20th century
Decline of agricultural walls as a practical resource; growing appreciation of their landscape and historic value.
The Heritage Industry
Rise of heritage-based tourism, nostalgia for past times, adaptation of vernacular building styles to new, often non-functional, purposes.
New Challenges to Local Authorities
Many new trunk roads in later 20th century; much urban redevelopment and extension;
reclamation of old industrial areas.
New Wine for Old Bottles
Dry stone work an obvious resource to give a touch of "instant heritage" to various developments.
Advantages and Disadvantages
When well designed and executed, a new resource for town and country; when inappropriately designed and executed by inexpert craftsmen, an eyesore which quickly degenerates. Good designs, well executed, can be ruined by inappropriate planting of shrubs and lack of maintenance.
Ways of Improving the Situation
Role of Dry Stone Walling Association in publicising, educating, improving standards; links with architects, local authorities, contractors.