A review of the Farsley conservation area gets underway today, with locals being asked for their views on what they think is special about Farsley and any improvements that could be made.
The historic settlement of Farsley was first designated as a conservation area in 1987 in order to safeguard the special architectural and historic character of the village, and protect important buildings from unauthorised demolition.
It is proposed that the conservation area be extended to include the historic settlement of Bagley, to the north-east of Farsley centre, as well as extending the existing boundary to include the whole of West Royd Park. A Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plan will also be produced to make sure the special interest of the conservation area is documented. Members of the public are being asked to comment on the proposed alterations over the next six weeks. The draft appraisal document can be viewed online at: www.leeds.gov.uk/conservation
A public meeting and drop-in session will take place on Monday 8 February at St John the Evangelist Church Hall, New Street, Farsley. The public meeting will begin at 7pm when a conservation officer will present the proposals followed by a question and answer session. The informal drop-in session will start at 7.45 until 9pm.
Buildings within a conservation area are protected from unauthorised demolition, and new developments have to meet higher standards of design than elsewhere. Other planning rules are slightly different and permission from the council is needed for certain activities such as tree felling.
Councillor Andrew Carter, joint leader and executive board member responsible for development, said:
“We want to safeguard the special architectural nature and historic character of villages such as Farsley, and protect their important buildings for the future. Designating a conservation area is the best way for us to do this.
“I am particularly keen to get the opinions of local people, and this public meeting and drop in session will give residents the opportunity to speak directly to a conservation officer and make their views on the matter known to the council.
“This is an important part of the process to protect historic and important local communities.”
The outer west area committee, with the support of ward councillors, have made this work a priority and allocated money from their ‘Well Being Fund’ to ensure that Farsley has up-to-date conservation area protection.
The public consultation will begin on Monday 25 January and will run until Friday 5 March. Posters will be displayed around the village to tell people how they can comment. There will also be a display in Farsley Library from 25 January, and response forms for people to complete.
The proposals should be approved by council officials in March 2010.
People can also request a copy of the draft appraisal from the conservation team at: Sustainable Development Unit, Leeds City Council, Leonardo Building, 2 Rossington Street, Leeds, LS2 8HD
ENDS
For media enquiries, please contact;
Claire Macklam, Leeds City Council press office (0113) 395 1578
Email: claire.macklam@leeds.gov.uk
