Conservation Hub
Find out more: Conservation HubDiscover the Story of Our Conservation Areas
The Forest of Dean’s Conservation Hub is a new and innovative tool that brings together information about all 27 conservation areas across the district in one accessible, interactive place.
Developed through a partnership between Forest of Dean District Council, Historic England and specialist consultants LUC, the project goes beyond traditional heritage studies by exploring how conservation can support thriving communities, successful town centres and sustainable regeneration, whilst conserving them for the enjoyment of future generations.
The Conservation Hub has been designed for everyone. Whoever you are, you can use the tool to better understand the character and significance of places across the district and it should be used by everyone to help inform decision making, development.
What is the Conservation Hub?
The Conservation Hub has been divided into 3 sections: analysis and comparison of all 27 conservation areas, detailed and interactive Explorer Hubs, and easy-to-read Summary Sheets. Through these, users can discover how their conservation area compares with others, what makes it special, learn about local strengths and weaknesses, and identify opportunities for positive change.
The Conservation Hub is not just about protecting historic buildings, it is about shaping the future of our places. The project demonstrates how heritage can act as a catalyst for regeneration, helping to improve local economies, strengthen identity and direct investment so that our conservation areas can best serve, and create opportunities for local people.
What does the Conservation Hub do?
By analysing a wide range of issues such as public spaces, vacant buildings, connectivity, climate resilience and investment opportunities, the project provides a clear evidence base for where action can make the greatest difference. The recommendations within the Conservation Hub are important because they provide practical steps that can be taken by a wide range of partners. The recommendations are intended to support the long-term health and vitality of the conservation areas. They also help ensure that future development and investment respect the qualities that make these places unique. Some actions will be led by the Council, but many rely on the involvement of local communities, or key stakeholders.
By engaging with the Conservation Hub and supporting its recommendations, everyone can play an active role in shaping the future of the Forest of Dean’s historic places. Successful conservation is a shared responsibility, and the project shows that the best outcomes are achieved when communities, businesses and organisations work together.
The Conservation Hub provides the knowledge, evidence and inspiration needed to turn ideas into action, helping to celebrate our heritage while creating stronger, more resilient and more prosperous places for future generations.