PRESTON and South Ribble's rich heritage looks set to be preserved for future generations after the county council outlined a new plan for the future.

Members of the county's planning, industrial development and tourism committee will be shown Lancashire's Heritage Conservation Strategy which, if implemented, would safeguard the future of historical sites such as Hoghton Tower and Samlesbury Hall for ever.

After widespread consultation with interested bodies, County Hall bosses have drawn up the strategy, which has a number of aims to ensure local history is accessible to future generations.

The strategy includes: improving public access to heritage sites; increasing knowledge and understanding of historical environments; the creation of an historic environment information service; supporting local initiatives designed to protect and enhance heritage assets; and creating opportunities for public enjoyment and appreciation of heritage sites.

The borough councils of Lancashire will also be urged to protect their local heritage through their local plans, which document where new developments are being planned.

A County Hall spokesman said: "If our children are to enjoy Lancashire's rich legacy of history we must plan to manage the resources of the historic environment with care.

"We need to take a long-term view of the effect our action today will have in the future.

"The strategy is part of a long-term vision for safeguarding our heritage."

If councillors approve the strategy, existing resources will be combined with external funds to ensure the scheme's success.

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