Proposals to extend the Shadwell conservation area

People are being asked what they think about Shadwell and how it could be improved as its conservation area is reviewed.

The village was first designated a conservation area in 1973 and this has not been reviewed since, making it the first time in over 35 years that it has been assessed. It helps to protect Shadwell’s unique architecture and historical attractions from inappropriate demolition and development.

Shadwell dates from at least 1086 when it is documented in the Domesday Book, but there is evidence of human activity in the area dating from both prehistoric times and the Roman period.

It has a long history of development, with particular boom periods for Shadwell being in the 18th and 19th centuries when many of its most significant buildings were constructed.

Under the plans the conservation area will remain largely unaltered. However, a conservation area appraisal and management plan will be produced to identify the special characteristics of the area and to ensure these are documented.

Councillor Richard Lewis, Leeds City Council's executive member for city development, said:
“Shadwell has a long and important history and impressive historic architecture. Conservation area status helps safeguard the special architecture and character of the village and protects important buildings from demolition.

“Local people know their area better than anybody and we very much welcome their views on the proposals.”

The draft proposals for Shadwell’s conservation area are available on-line throughout the consultation, at: www.leeds.gov.uk/conservation

The public consultation will begin on Monday 25th June 2012 and will run until Friday 27th July. Posters will go up locally to inform people of their opportunity to comment.

A public meeting and drop-in session will be held on Tuesday 10th July 2012 at The Recreation Centre, Holywell Lane, Shadwell. The meeting will begin at 7pm when a presentation will be made about the work and people will get the chance to ask questions. A more informal drop-in session will then be held from 7.45pm until 9pm.

The proposals are expected to be taken to council officials for approval in August 2012. People can respond during the public meeting, or by emailing the conservation team at building.conservation@leeds.gov.uk

Leeds City Council’s Outer North East area committee, with the support of the ward councillors, have made this work a priority and allocated money from their Well Being Fund to ensure Shadwell has up-to-date conservation area protection.

During the consultation period 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.

Notes to editors:
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.

For media enquiries please contact:
Leeds City Council press office tel: (0113) 395 0244
ENDS