17 April 2009, 09/77
D
iscover the
special qualities of Ormskirk Town Centre
The historic character of Ormskirk town centre will
continue to be protected and improved following views from
residents.
Last year West Lancashire District Council started a
review of Ormskirk Town Centre Conservation Area to find out how
its special qualities could best be preserved and
enhanced.
As it is an area of special architectural and historic
interest, the appraisal was to ensure that any changes in the
environment were recognised and managed and whether the boundaries
of the area would need to be changed.
So the community and interested groups were asked for
their comments at a series of meetings, exhibitions and focus
groups.
Feedback from residents was overwhelmingly in support of
protecting the area and there were some suggestions to even extend
the boundaries, although it was decided not to alter them due to
the majority of views.
As a result of comments, the Council has also put forward
a list of suggested proposals to try to enhance the conservation
area if external funding becomes available. Ideas include improving
alleyways and creating gateways, improving corner site building
designs and more public artwork.
Cllr Martin Forshaw, Portfolio Holder for Planning,
said:
"We’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who took
part in the exercise. People were extremely positive and we were
pleased with how many took the time to give their views.
"It’s important that we look at our conservation areas to
ensure that these heritage sites still justify this status. It’s
also a good opportunity to look positively at how to manage changes
which may erode their special character if left uncontrolled and to
put ideas together to improve and protect these areas."
Residents can read the full document on our heritage pages. Copies are
also available on request by contacting 01695 585167.
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