Town’s history attracts special interest
A VALLEY town centre has been confirmed as an area of special architectural or historic interest – helping to preserve its history.
The Haslingden conservation area was developed and put out to public consultation in 2018. Rossendale council’s cabinet approved the area before submitting it to the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, who has confirmed the decision. The allocation of a site as a conservation area identifies areas where change should be managed to prevent harm to the existing character.
Designation within a conservation area doesn’t mean every building will be preserved and that no changes will be allowed, but instead helps to ensure any changes respect the area’s character and appearance.
Recently, the council announced its funding bid for National Lottery Heritage Funding had progressed to the next stage.
Coun Adrian Lythgoe, cabinet member for development control, said: “Haslingden has some beautiful buildings and it’s very important we try to maintain its character even when we are bringing in new funding and resources to improve the town and make it more vibrant.
“The designation will enable the town to change and thrive but in a way that makes sure any changes does not harm its special character. I want to thank the officers for their hard work in progressing this as well as everyone who took part in the public consultation.”
Details of the designation and more information regarding the borough’s conservation areas can be found by visiting www.rossendale.gov.uk and searching for ‘Heritage’.