Heritage

Heritage and Planning:

The main historic elements of the built environment comprise Listed Buildings, Conservation Areas, Historic Parks and Gardens, historic street patterns, and archaeological remains. It is important to value and protect the historic environment because it adds much to the quality of life; the links it provides with the past contribute greatly to the character of Preston today.

For new development to be “sustainable” it must preserve the historic environment for future generations to learn from and enjoy. The control of development affecting conservation areas, listed buildings, historic parks and gardens, and archaeological remains is therefore an important issue for the council to address.

New development should not always be seen as being in conflict with the conservation of the historic environment. New development, or changes of use to existing buildings, is often necessary in and around historic buildings to ensure they remain viable and receive the investment they need. It is vitally important, however, that development is carefully controlled so that the special character of historic areas and buildings is preserved and enhanced.

Heritage and Regeneration:

Heritage can also be seen as a catalyst for the regeneration of an area.  Historic buildings and spaces create a focal point that people can relate to and are familiar with, giving a sense. This can add a distinctive identity to the ‘new build’ part of a regeneration
scheme – enhancing townscapes and lifting the overall quality of the built environment.

English Heritage have undertaken several studies into the value of the historic environment for the regeneration of towns and cities. They identify a number of key benefits of conservation led regeneration projects. These include:

• Fostering community cohesion
• Assisting local entrepreneurs 
• Enhancing local distinctiveness
• Developing liveable towns and cities
• Making regeneration funding accessible
• Contributing to sustainable development

Heritage Counts:

English Heritage produce a report on heritage issues across England and for each region each year. The latest Heritage Counts Reports for England and the north west region can be accessed via the link on the right.