Conservation Area plan for Aberdeen

Aberdeen City Council has announced that the city's existing conservation areas are to be re-examined to decide which are most worthy of 'protection and enhancement'. The Conservation Area Character Appraisals and Management Plan is the first step in a comprehensive review of the city's conservation areas, many of which have been existence for forty years.

The new document will, among other things, provide guidance for the public and help developers to 'identify and formulate proposals in conservation areas'. The plan states: '

'We have had conservation areas in Aberdeen for over forty years and some have stood the test of time better than others. Inevitably mistakes have been made and we want to learn from them. For the future we want to ensure that our conservation areas are those whose historic environment is the most worthy of protection and enhancement.

'Conservation areas are more than historic buildings and spaces. They help give Aberdeen its distinct sense of place, telling the story of our common past. Although this document is primarily aimed at the physical fabric of conservation areas, we recognise the important role that they play in the city's environmental sustainability, economic and social wellbeing.'

Among the strengths of the conservation areas identified within the plan are:

• Widespread use of granite as a construction material
• High quality buildings, many of which are listed buildings
• Open spaces and greenery

The weaknesses include:

• Absentee landlords
• Inappropriate development
• Loss of traditional street signage.

Convener Ramsay Milne said: 'Aberdeen's conservation areas are hugely important to the city and add greatly to its character and atmosphere. I welcome this piece of work which will not only help to preserve and protect these areas, but also improve them and keep them special for years to come.'

For more on the plan, visit the Aberdeen City Council website.

(Image copyright Colin Smith)

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