RESIDENTS in the Tavistock area have just a week left to make their views known regarding proposals to extend the town's conservation area.
The proposals, which include removal of some town centre car parks and increased protection for the town's ancient monuments, are included in the Tavistock Conservation Area Management Plan — a document drawn up by the Tavistock Townscape Heritage Partnership. The Partnership is hoping the document will support a successful bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund.
Discussions last week indicated Tavistock was in the foremost position in the South West for attracting this support in the current round of bidding. If successful, this could see up to £3 million being invested in conservation works in Tavistock.
The management plan is currently the subject of a public consultation which ends on December 5 — and residents are strongly urged to make their views known on its contents.
Cllr Chris Jenkins, chairman of West Devon Borough Council's environment committee, said: 'This is an extremely important piece of work and we want the public to be involved.
'I know people of the borough take a great interest in the unique heritage and environment of Tavistock. This is a further opportunity to help decide how we safeguard and improve the appearance and management of the Conservation Area, which is now included in a World Heritage Site.'
Robert Plumb, West Devon's regeneration officer, said: 'I would encourage anyone who wants to see things improve in the future to submit their views to us. It's also an opportunity to get behind the bid for funding support to deliver the changes people want to see happen.'
The plans are available to view at West Devon Borough Council's offices at Kilworthy Park in Tavistock.
Anyone who wishes to comment on the plan should write to: Robert Plumb, Regeneration Officer, West Devon Borough Council, Kilworthy Park, Drake Road, Tavistock, PL19 0BZ or visit http://www.westdevon.gov.uk">www.westdevon.gov.uk
A questionnaire which residents can fill in can be seen on the Times website at http://www.tavistock-today.co.uk">www.tavistock-today.co.uk — simply click on the Tavistock Conservation Area logo, fill out the form and submit. There are also links to the council's website.