Have your say in how your conservation areas shape up

PEOPLE from Rothwell and Oulton in Leeds are being asked for their views on the future of their local conservation areas.

Conservation areas aim to safeguard the architectural and historic character of places and protect their important buildings from unauthorised demolition.

Rothwell conservation area was first designated in 1976 and was last reviewed and extended in 1987. Oulton conservation area was first designated in 1975 and extended to include Oulton Park in 1987. Both conservation areas are now being reviewed.

A number of extensions and modifications are proposed for both conservation areas to make sure that all areas of special architectural and historic interest are included.

Draft conservation area appraisals and management plans have been produced and are now available for public consultation. Members of the public will be asked for comments on the proposed boundary changes. The draft appraisal documents will be available online at www.leeds.gov.uk/Environment_and_planning/Conservation/Conservation_area_appraisals.aspx throughout the consultation.

An exhibition on the Rothwell review can be viewed at Rothwell Library from January 25 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.

At Oulton there will be an exhibition about the review at the Oulton Institute between January 25 and March 5. A conservation officer will be holding an informal ‘drop-in’ session at the same venue on February 9, from 3–6pm.

Coun Andrew Carter, joint leader and executive board member responsible for development, said: “We want to safeguard the special architectural nature and historic character of this town and village, and protect important buildings from unauthorised demolition. Designating a conservation area is the best way for us to do this.”

Public talks run until Friday, March 5. For further information contact the conservation team at: Sustainable Development Unit, Leeds City Council, Leonardo Building, 2 Rossington Street, Leeds, LS2 8HD. Call 0113 222 4409 or email [email protected].