MONMOUTHSHIRE County Council (MCC) is to engage with communities over its appraisals for conservation areas within the county by hosting five public events. Conservation areas have special protection because of their recognised special architectural or historic interest.

MCC has commissioned conservation area appraisals for 18 of its 31 conservation areas, setting out what is important or distinctive about the character and appearance of each area as well as future management options. The consultation also includes seeking members of the public’s views on proposals to amend the boundaries of some of the conservation areas.

The public events will take place between the 3rd and 29th September, in Usk, Chepstow, Monmouth and Caldicot. Each event will take place from 3pm to 7pm with members of Monmouthshire’s conservation team and other planning officers available to explain about conservation areas and discuss the proposals.

County Councillor Giles Howard, Monmouthshire’s cabinet member with responsibility for planning said: “Our conservation area appraisals are intended to ensure that these areas of special interest are afforded the right level of protection.  We’re keen to engage with residents and discover what they think about the council’s proposals, some of which include amendments to the current conservation areas.”