Free online conservation advice for Barking businesses and residents

The council has invited local businesses and residents to find out how they will be affected by the new rules for the conservation area in Barking town centre.

Two free online workshops will examine the impact of the management plan for the Abbey and Barking Town Centre Conservation Area, which was adopted by the Council in October 2020.

They will look at the latest guidance for Barking’s town centre which outlines the responsibilities of residents and businesses to maintain their buildings appropriately in order to enhance the historic character of the town centre.

Colin Bannon, Town Heritage Officer, explains: “The conservation area is vitally important in helping us to preserve and enhance Barking’s historic buildings and spaces.

“We are keen to talk to residents and business owners to ensure that any alterations they make to their property are high quality and consistent with the special character of the conservation area.

“Our online workshops will look at the types of issues that must be considered when planning any alteration to homes or premises, ranging from shop fronts and windows, through to satellite dishes and even advice on pigeon deterrents.”

“They are geared towards anyone who has property in the area, but may also be of interest to people with an interest in historic buildings as well as students or professionals in the planning and construction industries locally.”

The workshops take place on 26 January and 2 February, and further details are available here.