Residents of Sedgley, Wollaston and Wordsley are encouraged to have their say on the draft Conservation Area Character Appraisals before the 19 February.

There are currently 22 conservation areas in the borough, and the council is proposing draft conservation area character appraisals for three of them – All Saints Sedgley, Wollaston and Wordsley. These appraisals have been developed to preserve and enhance areas of special architectural or historic interest for future generations.

Conservation areas represent the best of the borough's unique and varied heritage with their special architectural or historic interest. Once designated, an area can attract heritage based funding allowing areas to be improved, restored and preserved for the future.

These appraisals not only recommend amending the boundaries of conservation areas but also highlight issues and proposals for enhancements which can include improvements to shop frontages, the public realm, street planting, green spaces, open public space, or introducing gateway features.

Anyone wishing to take part in the consultation must return their questionnaires or complete the online survey by 19 February. Councillor Ian Kettle, cabinet member for planning an economic development, said:

“Conservation areas are extremely important as they protect our heritage, which Dudley Council is committed to preserving and enhancing.  Living in one of these areas is a great opportunity for residents and local businesses, as the order ensures the unique features, which make these areas so special, are protected.

“We understand residents can have concerns about how such restrictions can impact, but we work closely with those affected to make sure the process is as easy as possible.  I would urge anyone living, or owning businesses, in the proposed areas to take part in our consultation by 17 February.”

Full details, including proposals of the new boundaries and an on-line questionnaire, can be found online. The proposals can also be viewed at 4 Ednam Road, Dudley and in the following public libraries - Brierley Hill, Dudley, Halesowen, Stourbridge, Sedgley and Wordsley.