LEEK’ S HERITAGE
Protecting Leek’ s heritage
LOCAL people are being asked for their views on proposals aimed at protecting Leek’ s heritage and character.
For over 40 years now the town centre has been designated as a conservation area but its character is still at risk from harmful alterations to some of its building.
Staffordshire Moorlands District Council is seeking to safeguard Leek’ s legacy by: Reviewing the conservation area boundary; introducing measures to control significant external alterations to domestic properties in the conservation area; and by publishing an appraisal describing the special character and appearance of the conservation area.
Councillor Edwin Wain, cabinet member for planning, development and property told Leek Life:“ Leek town centre is a special place which is rich in historical character. Architectural features such as windows, doors, traditional roofing materials, chimney stacks and boundary walls and railings contribute so much to the appearance of the conservation area.
“ Removing or altering these features can be damaging to the nature of the area and most changes of this type to dwellings do not currently require planning permission. We’ re now looking to protect these historic buildings by restricting permitted development rights but before any decisions are made, we want to hear the views of local people about the proposals.”
Leaflets have been distributed to every address in the Leek conservation area detailing the proposals and what they mean for affected buildings.
Formal consultation on the proposals began in June with people given until 26th July to submit their comments. More details are available on the website www. staffsmoorlands. gov. uk, by emailing conservation @ staffsmoorlands. gov. uk, or from the reception at Moorlands House in Stockwell Street, Leek.
50 Leek Life July / August 2013