New conservation area to help protect historic Horsforth (Leeds Liberal Democrats)

Leeds Liberal Democrats <info@leedslibdems.org.uk>

New conservation area to help protect historic Horsforth

February 9, 2010 12:00 AM

Plans to create a new conservation area have been given the nod, to the delight of local ward councillors.

This week approval has been given to designate and appraise a conservation area in the Cragg Hill and Woodside areas of Horsforth. £6,000 has been granted from the north west outer area committee's well-being fund. New boundaries and management proposals for protecting and enhancing the character of the area will be looked at in the study which is due to be carried out this year. Conservation professionals will work with ward councillors and the community to draw up a document which will go out to consultation before an official conservation area is created.

The new conservation area will aid the protection of buildings of historical interest. This is an issue that has been strongly pursued by ward councillors following the demolition of two Victorian villas at the former St Joseph's care home site.

Cllr Brian Cleasby (Lib Dem, Horsforth) said:

"Having had to endure the demolition of the two Victorian villas at St Joseph's, it is reassuring that a document will now be drawn up which will provide protection to our precious buildings. The completed conservation area will create an extension to the Newlaithes conservation area which was re-appraised last year. It will provide a much needed belt of protection to an area of fine housing, beautiful countryside and clear historical interest to Leeds.

"I know the newly formed residents group are keen to get this document drawn up straight away and they will be following its progress very carefully along with my fellow ward councillors and I."