Join our conservation conversation

If you relish Rudyard or are obsessed with Oakamoor then the Council wants to hear from you about its plans to preserve the character of these special Moorlands villages.

The principle of designating both villages as conservation areas was established with the publication of the Churnet Valley Masterplan in 2014 and Staffordshire Moorlands District Council is now looking to secure special protection for the rich legacy left by their historical development.

Rudyard enjoyed a golden age in the 19 Century as the North Staffordshire Railway exploited the beautiful setting of the man-made lake which was originally built as a supply reservoir for the local canal network. A number of tearooms and hotels were developed to accommodate the growing demands of day visitors to the beauty spot.

Oakamoor's heritage is based around the River Churnet and the industries and transport network that grew up along its banks.

In recognition of their important and attractive built heritage, the Council is now asking for views on:

• The boundary of the conservation area in each village;
• The introduction of enhanced planning controls on domestic properties to protect the villages' heritage; and
• A draft written statement that sets out why the villages are of special interest and highlights those aspects that need particular protection.

Councillor Edwin Wain, cabinet member for planning, development and property, said: "The Council is committed to preserving and enhancing the distinctive character of the Staffordshire Moorlands and both Rudyard and Oakamoor are perfect examples of villages that need to be protected.

"We are now asking the public to let us have their views on the proposed boundary of each conservation area, and the other measures we're proposing, and I would encourage anyone with an interest in the heritage of these villages to take part and tell us what they think."