The long-pending holistic development plan of the Punjab and Haryana High Court has gained momentum, with the Chandigarh Heritage Conservation Committee (CHCC) approving the proposal.A meeting of the CHCC was held today, which was chaired by Chandigarh Chief Secretary H Rajesh Prasad. The chairperson said the proposal had been forwarded to Foundation Le Corbusier, Paris, through the Government of India, in compliance with the HC orders.During the meeting, Rajiv Kumar Mehta, Chief Architect-cum-Member Convener, briefed the committee on the holistic development plan, the efforts undertaken so far and the legal adjudications that led to convening the meeting.The committee was apprised of the holistic development plan of the court complex, including directions issued by the Punjab and Haryana High Court from time to time. It was informed that, in compliance with the court orders, a consultant had been engaged and conceptual design proposals had been prepared.The consultant, M/s Design Associates, Noida, made a presentation on the conceptual proposal, highlighting heritage-sensitive planning, protection of the outstanding universal value, adherence to the ICOMOS guidelines, and integration of open spaces and infrastructure.During the discussion, members emphasised the need for preserving the sanctity of the Capitol Complex, ensuring Heritage Impact Assessment, obtaining environmental clearances and strictly complying with the UNESCO norms. It was reiterated that all statutory approvals, heritage clearances and environmental permissions would be obtained prior to the execution of the project.The High Court had directed the Chandigarh Administration to immediately place before the Centre a concept note proposing additional construction of about 20.5 lakh sq ft.The High Court’s original building, an iconic structure designed by Le Corbusier, has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of the Capitol Complex in Chandigarh.The entire Capitol Complex, including the HC block, stands nominated and protected under the World Heritage framework. As a result, any development or intervention around the site is required to be referred to the World Heritage Committee for its advice in terms of Clause 172 of the Operational Guidelines for the Implementation of the World Heritage Convention.In keeping with this requirement, the concept note for the proposed expansion of the HC complex is required to be submitted to Foundation Le Corbusier.During a previous hearing, the court was informed that two concept notes along with drawings had been prepared — one proposing 20.5 lakh sq ft of additional construction and the other 19.8 lakh sq ft.