THE vice-chairman of a leading conservation watchdog has cast doubt on its future - prompting a special meeting.

Since the 'demolitions and disasters of the 60s', there has been a change in attitude towards the historic environment, coupled with a raft of legislation, policy and guidance, says Harry Chadwick, of Hereford Civic Trust.

Writing in the newsletter, he questions whether there is now anything for the trust to do, apart from comment on 'colours and curly-bits' and matters of taste and design.

Reacting to Mr Chadwick's observations, members have called an open meeting, scheduled for October 18. The aim is to find a role for the trust as 'an effective amenity body in the 21st century'. Mr Chadwick says that when Hereford Civic Trust came into being, it was 'a very different world' and 'many worthy historic buildings were demolished'.

"But the past two decades have seen enormous changes," he writes. "'Stewardship of the environment' is an in-phrase, embracing all aspects of development. The demolitions and disasters of the 60s are no longer so likely to occur."

However, citing plans to redevelop Hereford's cattle market and football ground, he warns that this 'now-different world' is 'awash with money, development potential - and vehicles - on a scale never before known'.