English Heritage launches campaign to save at risk conservation areas – including five in Kirklees

Jun 23 2009 By Katie Campling

Trevor Mitchell, English Heritage regional director for planning and development, said: "These findings are a call for action. Some of West Yorkshire’s most iconic townscapes are conservation areas and they make a tremendous contribution to our quality of life, economy and sense of identity."

The biggest threat to the character of conservation areas are plastic windows and doors – with 83% of the country’s conservation areas affected.

The next biggest issue is poorly maintained roads and pavements, then street clutter and loss of front garden walls, fences and hedges. Other problems include unsightly satellite dishes, traffic calming measures, alterations, extensions, advertisement boards and neglected green spaces.

Mr Mitchell said: "Residents, businesses and councils all have a role to play. We will target our conservation area grants on places identified as being at risk."

He said councils can make greater use of Article 4 Directions, which give them control over small changes in conservation area, and employ their powers to encourage owners to repair or sell neglected or derelict buildings.

Visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/ conservationareas