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Plastic threat to our heritage
Lancashire's conservation areas are at risk from "neglect and decay," it was claimed today.
English Heritage has launched a campaign to save neighbourhood heritage after a survey revealed one in seven are at risk.
Those in danger in Lancashire include Deepdale Enclosure and St Ignatius in Preston, St George in Chorley, Wray in Lancaster and Calder Vale, near Garstang.
Conservation areas are designated by local councils to protect their special character and appearance.
According to the survey, the top threats are plastic windows and doors, poorly maintained roads and pavements, street clutter, loss of front garden walls, fences and hedges, and satellite dishes.
English Heritage wants residents, local groups and councils to work together to improve these places.
Dr Simon Thurley, chief executive of English Heritage, said: "Analysing the results, it is clear the problems fall into two main areas – what owners do to their properties and what councils do or fail to do to the streets, pavements, parks and public spaces.
"These are difficult economic times but our research shows that conservation areas do not need time-consuming or costly measures, just prioritising as places people cherish, the commitment of the whole council and good-management by residents and councils alike.
"Well-cared for they encourage good neighbourliness, give a boost to the local economy and will continue to be a source of national pride and joy for generations to come."
West Lancashire has been named as one of eight regional winners for having done most to improve its conservation areas.
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Weather for Preston
Wednesday 08 February 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: -4 C to 2 C
Wind Speed: 16 mph
Wind direction: South east
Tomorrow
Cloudy
Temperature: 2 C to 4 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: South
