Owners who neglect historic properties within the Fishergate Hill area could face a stronger clampdowns from city council planners.
AdvertisementPreston City Council has been reviewing the conservation area which stretches down part of the road and into surrounding streets such as West Cliff.
It has found large and historic buildings being downtrodden due to poor maintenance.
A large building which used to be a Post Office sorting depot at 42 West Cliff is singled out for criticism, with council officers saying it “has suffered from neglect, theft and vandalism.”
The current use of the former Moose Hotel as student accommodation is also highlighted as an issue, with planners saying it “has a shabby appearance with a proliferation of refuse and recycling facilities on view.”
The Fishergate Hill Conservation Area is not due to be changed but the city council is looking at an action plan to tidy up the area.
Funding from the European Regional Development Fund could be an option for the city council and Lancashire County Council to bid for.
They also say they will continue to deal with unauthorised development in the area such as the installing of PVC windows or turning front gardens into driveways.
Councillor John Swindells, cabinet member for planning and regulation, has approved the proposed plan for the area.
If no comments are made by fellow councillors it comes into force on Friday 10 July.
Do you live in the area? What do you think of the Conservation status? Let us know in the comments below