MORE steps towards a conservation area to protect the nooks and crannies of Barnoldswick could be taken next week.

The town centre and Town Head areas look set to be included in the scheme to maintain the town's unique character for years to come.

Pendle councillors will again discuss the issue at meeting of the West Craven committee on Tuesday night.

A council report says: "Barnoldswick is a particularly interesting town which is largely Victorian but with roots going further back to pre-industrial times.

"The character is thus a mixture of the picturesque and the laid-out formality of later years. The intersection of the various streets and buildings often leads to interesting spaces and nooks and crannies of considerable charm and character.

"Once designated, the conservation area protects buildings and trees and provides a basis for the proper conservation and enhancement of the area."

Councillors must decide on the area to be covered before more action can be taken. A boundary taking the town centre and stretching up Westgate to Town Head is suggested for the conservation area.

"The link between the economic life and the heritage of the town must be maintained. A positive balance has to be struck which allows the centre to develop economically without the damaging effects of ugly new buildings and alteration or loss of historic buildings."

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