Pulteneytown conservation area is given the green light by Highland Council with just local area members left to have their say to finalise the proposals
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A new conservation area appraisal and management plans for Wick Pulteneytown has been agreed by Highland Council and now local councillors will get the final say on whether to accept the proposals.
The boundary of the conservation area has been increased to incorporate additional areas of architectural prominence with Wick Pulteneytown covering a diverse built heritage.
The newly increased area includes both domestic housing on Argyle Square but also an extensive area of warehousing between the harbour and Wick River in a bid to help safeguard their distinct architectural and historical features.
If the plan is accepted by the Caithness area committee then it will be included as supplementary guidance for any future developments – something which could mean developers must meet higher standards if they seek construct or alter buildings in the protected area.
Cllr Willie MacKay of Wick and East Caithness said the approach to making the report took into account local sensitivities, including economic concerns and was therefore to be welcomed.
“In the consultation report you have the response from Wick Harbour. Wick Harbour is central to the past, present and future of the area and a key component of Pulteneytown," he said.
“The principle concerns raised with implications of the conservation area designated for future development opportunities.
“However after discussion, it was on balance proposed to remove the harbour area from the proposed amendment to the conservation area but to seek to work more closely with the harbour authority, which went down very well with the members in Caithness.”
Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Cllr Trish Robertson thanked the members of the two Area Committees, Council staff and the public for all their work.
She said: “This is about protecting the unique heritage of Tain and Pulteneytown for present and future residents and visitors.
“Producing the appraisals and management plans has involved a considerable amount of work so I would like to thank our staff, local members, local stakeholder groups and everyone who contributed to these reports.
"We have a statutory duty to preserve and enhance conservation areas and the feedback will help us, as custodians of our heritage and history, to better protect and preserve these two historic towns over the coming generations.”
Related Story – Councillors agree to extend conservation boundary with aim of 'bringing people back to Pulteneytown'
