Iconic Barrow event on 18 May - don't miss it!

On the 18th May, Barrow Borough Council will be holding a conference at Barrow Town Hall.

Part of the Townscape Heritage Initiative and funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, the day will provide an opportunity for those with a responsibility for protecting Barrow’s built heritage to discuss ways we can make decisions about the future of our heritage buildings. The day is open to all interested parties: those involved in our decision-making groups, such as the Local Strategic Partnership, Planning and Building Control, regeneration and any community groups who have an interest in the built environment of the Borough. We would also encourage people who are not attached to a particular group but who are interested in the Urban Environment to come along.

Regeneration Officer Valerie Holden said “This day is about opening our minds to new tools we can use to evaluate the space we use every day. It is for looking at future decision-making, not wringing our hands about the past. The aim is that we will go away having had some fun looking at our Borough through new eyes and with a better knowledge about how we can make our voice heard in future decisions."

The day will look at various themes: what is meaningful, quality of environment, sustainability, historic, archaeological, architectural and artistic interest and our sense of habitat. Delegates will spend time in the afternoon looking at two of Barrow’s landmarks before deciding, with the help of experts, whether or not the buildings hypothetically, should be protected. The final presentation of the day will assist delegates to understand how to make their voice heard within the planning process.

The North of England Civic Trust (NECT) is working with Barrow Borough Council to deliver the event as part of the Heritage Skills Initiative programme.

Local artist John Duffin has given permission to brand the event with his paintings. Many people will be familiar with John’s works, which feature local iconic buildings.

Speakers include: Victoria Lawson, John Barwise (Chair of Cumbria Green Business Forum), Graeme Ives (English Heritage), Graham Bell (NECT), Maddi Nicholson and Stuart Bastik of Art Gene.

The event is FREE, but places must be booked by contacting NECT on 0191 232 9279 or skills@nect.org.uk

Further information:

Contact Valerie Holden, vholden@barrowbc.gov.uk 01229 876370.