Conservation proposals go to consultation

A review of the conservation areas in nearby Rothwell and Oulton is now taking place with consultation running until the beginning of March.

During the Oulton review it became clear there are places of special architectural and historic interest in neighbouring Woodlesford which also need to be preserved.

The idea of having an expanded "Oulton with Woodlesford" conservation area was considered by local volunteers. They are now putting together a design statement for the two villages but it has been agreed that Woodlesford should be considered for a conservation area in its own right.

Both areas have very different characteristics, with Oulton defined by its agricultural past and Woodlesford still having areas of architectural and historic interest remaining from its industrial legacy.

The designation and appraisal of a new Woodlesford conservation area will take place this year at a cost of 5,000, paid for by Leeds City Council's south outer area committee.

Councillor Stewart Golton (Lib Dem, Rothwell) said: "We wanted to make sure that should the people of Woodlesford want the same protection as their neighbours in Oulton and Rothwell there would be sufficient money available to support this."

The area committee commissioned three conservation area appraisals in the Outer South; in Morley, Rothwell and Oulton.

An exhibition of the Rothwell review is at Rothwell Library to March 5. A public meeting and drop-in session will also be held at the Rothwell One Stop Centre, Marsh Lane on Wednesday February 24. A conservation officer will be there between 3pm and 6.30pm followed by a presentation and question-and-answer session at 7pm.

At Oulton, the review exhibition will be at the Oulton Institute until March 5. A conservation officer will be there tomorrow between 3pm and 6pm with a presentation and question-and-answer session there on Wednesday from 7.30pm until 8.30pm.