RESIDENTS and businesses are being asked for their views and support for plans to improve a village’s Conservation Area.

The call comes from Holmes Chapel Parish Council, which wants to make people more aware of the historic heart of the village, and a group has been set up to put together proposals.

“The parish council is working with the community to improve the appearance of its Conservation Area and make people aware of this important asset,” said vice-chairman John Clowes.

“The historic heart of a village is important to a community because it is not only a pleasant place to walk around but can also attract visitors and therefore benefit businesses.

“The Conservation Area is not well defined, there is no signage indicating the history of the village and little guidance to businesses as to the best approach to enhance the heritage appeal of the area.

“As a result many people probably don’t even know there is a distinct Conservation Area.

“The parish council believes there is work we could do in Holmes Chapel to improve the attractiveness of the Conservation Area.”

Some of the work would need to be funded, such as display boards and new paving, and the council is looking to make some funds available as a contribution.

A group has been set up between the council and Holmes Chapel and District University of the 3rd Age to work on a number of initiatives.

The U3A history group has raised £1,800 via the Co-op Community Fund towards display panels explaining the history of the village and the story of the buildings you can see as you walk around.

The parish council will supplement these funds to cover the balance of costs and pay for new street signs.

The draft information panels will be on display in Holmes Chapel library from March 5 to 17, which will give the community a chance to comment before the designs are finalised.

The parish council is also contacting businesses to seek their support.

Cllr Clowes added: “The parish council is also looking at improving an important route through the Conservation Area, Church Walk.

“This pedestrian route could be a very attractive feature, but due to factors including the footway surface, poor quality street furniture and untidy storage bins there is room for improvement.

“The council wants to start a discussion, produce a scheme for the area and work with the owners to make improvements.”