Conservation views wanted

Nov 14 2008 by Caroline Boxer, Strathearn Herald

MEMBERS of the public are being asked for their views on proposals for the centre of Crieff to be designated as a conservation area.

All councils are required to identify areas of special architectural or historic interest and the principle of a conservation area designation for Crieff was established in The Strathearn Area Plan 2001.

Crieff’’s draft conservation area appraisal is a comprehensive document which identifies what makes the proposed area special and worthy of protection.

While highlighting the strath capitals many good points, it flags up a number of negative factors within the town such as unoccupied buildings and ill-defined spaces which “detract from the quality of the townscape”.

The report states: “The centre of Crieff retains a strong architectural and historic character which demonstrates its evolution and creates a unique high quality environment. This character is important for the quality of life and economic health of the town, in the present and the future.”

Conservation areas have extra planning controls in place to preserve and enhance their important architecture and historic character. This ensures that character is protected for the future, but also has benefits for residents’ quality of life, economic development, property values and tourism.

The Council will also investigate and progress where appropriate enhancement schemes including an environmental improvement scheme for the High Street.

People will be able to view the plans at a special exhibition to be held at Crieff Library next week.

The Council will consult the public, local community groups and national bodies on the draft Crieff Conservation Area Appraisal from now until December 5.

The public exhibition will be held at the Comrie Street Library from Tuesday, November 18 to Saturday, November 22 and members of the Conservation and Regeneration team will be available to answer questions and collect comments on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.

The draft Crieff Conservation Area Appraisal and consultation information can also be found at: www.pkc.gov.uk/crieffconservationarea.

Responses should be sent to: The Conservation and Regeneration Team, Perth & Kinross Council, The Environment Service, FREEPOST SCO6140, Perth, PH1 5BR

All comments must be received by December 5 to be taken into account in the final version of the document.