Changes to conservation areas approved
GoogleThe boundaries of conservation areas in two towns have been changed to ensure they are "doing their job properly".
Westmorland and Furness Council has approved the removal from the heritage zone of an area of Friargate in Penrith town centre, which included 21st Century housing developments such as Anglia House and Merlin Court.
Several areas in Barrow town centre were added, such as Coronation Gardens, the King's Arms pub and Alfred Barrow Health Centre.
Vacant commercial premises on Market Street, the Holiday Inn and terraced houses on Hawke Street were among the areas to be removed.
Buildings in conservation areas are subject to tighter planning rules on changes that can be made to them, including restrictions on materials used.
Cabinet member for planning at the Liberal Democrat-led council, Vicky Hughes, said the changes played an important part in "guiding opportunities and positive change".
She said: "Conservation areas form an important part of the council's approach to protecting and enhancing areas of particular historical and/or architectural importance and it is important that they continue to ensure they are up-to-date and doing their job properly."
