Your views wanted on Wigan's heritage strategy

Feedback received from residents will help shape the Historic Environment Strategy (HES), published in draft by Wigan Council.

The fresh approach outlines how both public and privately owned locations can be preserved, enhanced and play a key role in regeneration plans for local communities.

It includes the borough’s buildings, gardens, historic ruins, canal network and landscapes, among others.

A six-week consultation is under way for the proposals that promote the message that a collective effort is the way forward.

Coun Terry Halliwell, the council’s heritage champion, said: “This borough’s rich heritage belongs to us all and therefore we all have a responsibility to protect it.

“The HES is a fantastic opportunity to think about the things that make our borough special and get involved in ensuring they can be enjoyed for generations to come.

“It’s not just about grand buildings, it’s street patterns, canal networks, detailing in brickwork and architecture of terraced houses. They all contribute to the distinctive nature of the borough.”

The strategy celebrates all aspects of the borough’s historic environment and how it makes the area so distinctive but acknowledges the challenges present across both the public and private sectors.

It aims to promote good management, sensitive adaptation and creative approaches to conservation.

The council’s role in working with private owners and community organisations in identifying new funding opportunities are also key aspects of the plans.

An example of how effective this approach can be was demonstrated recently with community group For Tyldesley and the council both securing funding from Historic England for Heritage Action Zones in Tyldesley and Wigan town centres.

Coun Halliwell, who is also cabinet member for housing and welfare, added: “Securing investment and finding financially viable uses for heritage assets can be difficult and that is why our plans include a degree of flexibility to find creative solutions.

“We must work together across all sectors so please let us know your views and help promote this important aspect of our borough.”

Catherine Dewar, North West Regional Director for Historic England: “Wigan is setting the pace in the North West for protecting heritage and using their rich historical environment to help recover from the Covid-19 pandemic.

“The council’s new historic environment strategy is an excellent initiative and we look forward to seeing how this evolves with the input of local people.”

To view the council’s heritage strategy and fill out a short feedback survey, visit: www.wigan.gov.uk/historicenvironment before the closing date of Monday, November