“Anyone who has an interest in the town’s history and heritage” asked to spare a few minutes to feedback on town centre Conservation plans

How do you think the town’s conservation area and historial buildings could be better preserved?

That is the crux of what Wrexham Council are posing to the public as part of a new consultation about how the local authority can preserve and enhance the special character and appearance of the Wrexham Town Centre Conservation Area.

Some of the town’s architectural features stretch right back through Wrexham’s rich history as a market town, all the way back to the 16th and 17th centuries.

The Conservation Area itself covers a large chunk of the town centre (pictured below) including the Butchers and General Markets, St Giles Church and large parts of the High Street, Hope Street and Regent Street.

Now the public are being asked to share their views on whether the boundary should be extended, how the special character (explainer PDF here) of the conservation area can be enhanced and top three priorities for the preservation and enhancement of the area over the next 10 years.

There is also the chance to highlight any issues and concerns (summary of negative features PDF here) and help identify opportunities and priorities over the next decade.

In June 2018 Wrexham.com reported that work to revitalise some of the town’s most historic buildings and bring others back into use has taken a step forward after external funding had been secured.

Initial support of £65,000 had been awarded as part of a National Lottery funding bid, with a chance for Wrexham Council apply for an additional £1.52m once plans have been developed further.

Along with the physical regeneration of some of the town centre buildings, Wrexham Council say the plans will also provide a collaboration with ongoing training for traditional building skills, such as: plastering using hot lime mixes, using traditional joinery techniques and generally taking care of historically important features in listed or important buildings.

Cllr David Kelly, lead member for environment and planning, said: “There are some incredible assets in Wrexham town centre which contribute to the town’s historical character and appearance.

“The Town Centre Conservation Area Character Assessment and Management Plan will help us to preserve and enhance this special character.

“Obviously, it’s very important we know what the public’s views are with regard to that plan, so I would encourage anyone who has an interest in the town’s history and heritage to spare a few minutes and take part.”

The whole survey won’t take more than a few minutes to complete – so if you think the character of historic Wrexham is important, it’s well worth your time taking a few minutes to take part.

You can take part in the consultation on the Your Voice Wrexham website here.