Horbury's conservation area set to be expanded to cover more historic buildings

A public consultation has been launched over plans to extend the protected area in the town more than 50 years after it was first created.

All councils are required to designate areas of special architectural or historic interest to preserve their character.

They feature more stringent controls on development and the demolition of buildings, along with further tree protection measures.

The proposal includes extending the area to cover buildings on Westfield Road, including the town’s library and town hall.

Both buildings were considered and rejected for national listing in 2019.

A report said: “Both have clear local significance, together with several other buildings and are proposed to be added to the council’s list of buildings of local interest.”

The extension would also cover Horbury Memorial Park and one of Britain’s last surviving World War Two gas decontamination centres.

The centre was constructed in 1939 and is described as a rare surviving example of its type.

It was given a Grade II listing in 2019 following a campaign by local historians.

It is also proposed that the area be expanded to include part of Cluntergate, Walker Lane and New Road, which “reflect the town’s medieval and 19th Century development.”

The report said: “Promotion of the special character and appearance of the conservation area should be carried out by the council and local groups to encourage greater awareness and pride in the historic environment here.”

There are currently 29 conservation areas across the district but the local authority has proposed the creation of two more, in Felkirk and Castleford town centre, plus the extension of the areas in Horbury and Ossett.

Members of the public have until November 27 to comment on the proposals.

Matthew Morley, the council’s cabinet member for planning and highways, said: “These areas – along with the new ones being suggested – really matter and it’s vital we protect them.

“Some hold important historic significance but this isn’t just about the past.

“It’s about the future too – making sure generations to come can enjoy the benefits that conservation brings.

“We know how much residents value the green spaces and conservation areas that make our district special.”