Sheffield City Council has proposed expanding two key conservation areas to protect historic buildings and preserve the city’s architectural character.

After a detailed review launched in January, the council is recommending that the City Centre and Kelham Island Conservation Areas be extended to include several new sites of historical and cultural importance.

Under the proposals, the City Centre Conservation Area would be expanded to cover Castlegate, West Street, and the Millennium Galleries and the Kelham Island Conservation Area would also extend to include South Parade up to Shalesmoor Road, the Coal Drops and Neepsend.

Councillor Ben Miskell, Chair of the council’s Transport, Regeneration and Climate Policy Committee, said: ” Everyone involved in the transformation of the city is incredibly excited about what Sheffield is going to become. A thrilling, vibrant, clean, green city for everyone to enjoy.”

“However, one thing we are very aware of is that our heritage and past are an important part of future shaping of Sheffield. A past that has shaped Sheffield into the city it is today and, with the review of these Conservation Areas and recommendations, will continue to have a major influence on the place we call home.”

The area proposed features some of Sheffield’s most significant historic sites, including the remains of Sheffield Castle at Castlegate, recognised as the birthplace of the city in the 12th century.

Conservation Areas are designated zones that recognise an area’s special architectural or historic interest and provide additional protection by restricting certain types of development, such as demolition or changes that could harm the area’s character.

Historic England, which supported the review through grant funding, said the expansion would help ensure Sheffield’s most distinctive places are managed and protected for the future.

The latest recommendations form part of a wider reassessment of Sheffield’s conservation zones, intending to keep planning information and boundaries up to date.

Reviews of the city’s four other conservation areas, including Ranmoor, Endcliffe, Norton and Oakes Park, are expected to continue next spring and summer.