Public participation in the conservation of historic areas: Case‐studies from north‐east England

Abstract

In the late 1960s the tide of public opinion in the UK turned against comprehensive redevelopment. Increasingly, attempts were made to conserve much of what historic townscape remained and to incorporate new development in these areas with greater sensitivity. The conservation area is the embodiment within UK legislation of these principles. While public opinion may have been instrumental in the advent of conservation areas, however, conservation planning has largely remained the preserve of the ‘expert professional’. Recent official pressure has called for some redress of this situation and more widespread participation. However, though much has been written about conservation, little attention has been given to those whose daily lives are affected by conservation area designation. What are the perceptions of those who live, work and recreate in conservation areas? If more public participation in the designation and management of conservation areas is to be undertaken, what sort of issues may arise? This paper attempts to explore these issues, by: (i) considering some of the existing evidence relating to this topic area; and (ii) analysing the results of an attitudinal study of residents (and others) in two conservation areas in north‐east England.