HELENSBURGH town centre has officially been designated a new conservation area by Argyll and Bute Council.
The decision was initially agreed by councillors in September and the recent confirmation means Helensburgh now has three designated conservation areas - along with the Hill House and Upper Helensburgh.
The move "recognises Helensburgh’s special architectural and historic qualities" and will "promote the high quality built environment".
It is hoped that significant avenues of potential funding will be opened up as a result.
READ MORE: Councillors back plan for town centre 'conservation area' in Helensburgh
The next step is to prepare a conservation area appraisal and management plan which will define what is special about the character and appearance of the conservation area and how the way the space is used may change.
When produced, the plan will be available for use by applicants, agents and the planning service to manage change in the conservation area in a positive way, while protecting what is important historically and to the community.
Conservation area status does not prevent development; it simply ensures that any new development, including alterations, should preserve or enhance the character of the area.
Work has now begun on the document and members of the public will be asked to give their views through a consultation.
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