Conservation and community
Holbeck Urban Village is an area with a unique heritage of listed buildings and natural assets that need to be safeguarded for the future. But conservation isn't just about preserving and protecting. It involves developing these assets for future generations.
Sustainability
Planners and developers need to consider
key issues such as the environment and conservation, bio-diversity, housing standards, social and cultural infrastructure and the effect of transport and connectivity upon the urban environment.
"A sustainable community is a place where people want to live and work now and in the future. A place that is prosperous and vibrant, that will improve everyone's quality of life."
Academy for Sustainable Communities
Conservation
it is essential that the development of the area takes into consideration the natural wildlife habitat provided by the River Aire and the historic Hol Beck water course. The Leeds Liverpool Canal also has a role to play in providing an important resource for leisure and recreation.
The core of the urban village is a designated conservation area and is home to 33 listed buildings. Some of these are outstanding pieces of industrial architecture and this rich heritage is what gives the area its unique character. Restoring and developing this heritage for future generations is one of the key aims of the regenration programme.
Community safety
The local community is vital to the success of Holbeck Urban Village. Not only will they sustain the business and residential communities but they will help to create new opportunities within the area.
It is vital that the local community are comfortable with the changes taking place in the area and part of this includes safety. Recent studies suggest that there is a high fear of crime in the area although actual crime is much lower than generally perceived.
In order to allay these fears four new PCSOs (Police Community Support Officers) were assigned to Holbeck Urban Village and neighbouring communities in November 2005.
