Public invited to have their say on conservation areas

Royal Borough residents, shoppers and businesspeople have been invited to say what they think are the important features of the Windsor town centre and Eton conservation areas.

Following council appraisals of both areas and the compilation of a list of the buildings, views and other factors considered important in maintaining the character of the areas, it's now over to the public to endorse the report or suggest additional features that they feel should be included.

The resulting information will be used when considering proposals for alterations or new development in these areas, as it will help potential developers understand the features that should be maintained and be used as a reference when planning decisions are made.

Cllr Alison Knight, lead member for planning and development, said: "We have set out what we think are the important factors in maintaining the character of these conservation areas. However, people who live in or use the areas are sure to have further insights so we would love to receive your feedback.

"By responding, residents and other interested parties can ensure those features that are considered locally important will be taken into consideration when planning decisions are made."

This is the first appraisal to be carried out within Windsor town centre, while in Eton the appraisal is a review of a 1996 document. The move is part of an ongoing programme to produce up-to-date appraisals for all 27 conservation areas in the borough, with seven having been adopted since May 2008.

The appraisals also include a section setting out a conservation area management plan which is intended to summarise the actions the council will take in the next five years to ensure the character and appearance of each area is preserved or enhanced.

Both draft documents are available to view at Windsor, Eton and Maidenhead Libraries, the Town Hall in Maidenhead, York House in Windsor, and Eton Town Council offices, as well as at http://www.rbwm.gov.uk/web/pp_conservation_consultation_appraisals.htm.

In addition, two drop-in sessions will be held on Thursday 9 July at the Guildhall, Windsor, and Tuesday 14 July, at Eton Town Council offices, both between 4 and 8pm. Along with the appraisal documents there will be a small exhibition and conservation officers will be present to answer questions.

Any comments on the appraisals and management plans should be sent to planning.policy@RBWM.gov.uk to arrive by Monday 17 August.

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