Conservation areas contribute significantly to our heritage.
There are around 600 conservation areas in Scotland which can cover small groups of buildings or extend over sections of a town or city. To safeguard them for the enjoyment and benefit of future generations we need to ensure that any new development pays respect to or enhances their character. Each local authority is required to determine which parts of its area are of special architectural or historic interest. It may designate these areas as conservation areas. Residents will normally be consulted on any proposal to designate conservation areas or to change their boundaries.