MODERN developments could be removed from the Cheshire conservation area of Parkgate as part of a revamp of the historic seaside town’s status.
Ellesmere Port and Neston Council has carried out an appraisal of the conservation area which was given the status in recognition of its historical interest in 1976.
The conservation area has almost 30 listed buildings and structures as well as other locally listed buildings.
The Parade promenade, which overlooks the Dee marshes Site of Special Scientific Interest and is a popular destination for tourists and walkers, partly sits within the conservation area
Senior planning officer Mike Worden said the re-evaluation of the area was part of an ongoing project in which all conservation areas are re-assessed.
The appraisal of Parkgate Conservation Area involved reviewing the boundaries of the area and preparing a document called a character statement.
Mr Worden, planning policy and project unit manager for the council, said: “This is in line with what the Government expects us to do, to capture what the character is.
“We looked at Parkgate a while ago, with a light touch.
“Parkgate is probably one of our more high profile areas and is unique. Cheshire does not have much coastline. It also has some important buildings, and it’s that we are trying to capture.”
He said the final conservation would be important in helping planners decide what developments could be built in the area, and taking more modern developments out of the conservation area could give their owners more freedom to make changes to them.
Mr Worden said: “The document would be used when we get planning applications and we can then use the document to make sure the character of the area is not adversely affected.
“Since the original designation there have been some residential extensions to the area and this document is saying some of those should come out of it.”
Mr Worden said areas they are proposing to take out of the conservation area include developments of the 1980s and 1990s near the back of the imposing Mostyn House School which overlooks the Parade. He said: “Things have changed and we are just trying to reflect on the ground things that are different from 30 years ago.
“But it’s just a recommendation and it could be that areas we have not suggested could be brought into the conservation area.”
As part of this consultation a meeting has been arranged at Neston Cricket Club on Tuesday January 29 at 7pm.
Sophie Norton, Planning Officer (Building Conservation) said: “The evening will start with a short presentation following by an opportunity to give comments and ask questions.”
THE deadline for receiving comments is February 5, and for more information contact Sophie Norton on 0151 356 6670.
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