A NATIONAL conference highlighting the role of public art in the regeneration of historic towns and cities is to be held in Lancaster.

The district's leading role in the area of regeneration is said to be why the English Historic Towns Forum has chosen to hold its conference in the local area.

The two-day event will be held at Lancaster Caste and Town Hall on November 20 and 21.

It will welcome authority planners, conservation officers, tourism and economic development chiefs, as well as members from other authorities, regional organisations and professionals involved in the field of regeneration.

The conference will be officially launched by the Mayor of Lancaster, Cllr Eileen Blamire, at a Civic Reception at Lancaster Castle and on the following day Lancaster City Council officers will be among the speakers, detailing successes including the Tern Project and the River Lune Millennium Park.

Delegates will also have the opportunity to sample the district's public art for themselves via a variety of tours, including one of the Castle, the Millennium Park, St George's Quay, Morecambe and Lancaster Town Hall.

Commenting on the forum's decision to base the event in the district, Cabinet member for regeneration, Cllr James Airey said: "We are honoured to be hosting such a prestigious event and warmly welcome the delegates to our district.

"It is also recognition of the important role public art has played and will continue to play in the regeneration of this area.

"We do have much to be proud of.

"However, there is still more we can do and I am also delighted that the conference will be working collectively to discuss issues which affect all areas such as the economic use of historic redundant buildings."