Council launches campaign for town’s heritage status

A proposal been sent to Historic England for them to consider Goole for Heritage Action Zone status as part of efforts to improve the town centre.

Heritage Action Zones provide a range of Historic England resources and expertise to achieve sustainable economic growth and breathe new life into historic places.

Each Heritage Action Zone is tailored to local circumstances and delivered in partnership between the local authority Historic England and other relevant organisations.

Working with Goole Civic Society, Goole Town Council and local businesses, the bid’s aim is to reduce vacant historic town centre buildings and establishing new uses for them.

For this to happen, the confidence of investors needs to grow by raising the profile of the town’s distinct industrial and maritime heritage and its adaptability to meet modern day requirements and both social and environmental challenges, East Riding of Yorkshire Council says.

“The Aire Street triangle has often been referred to as the area most in need of this type of activity,” explained Helen Hoult, renaissance manager at East Riding of Yorkshire Council.

“A few years ago a significant funding bid was unfortunately unsuccessful because of concerns at the time that public funding might be spent, but investor confidence would remain low.

“We can all see how that situation is changing, especially in Aire Street. We hope that by securing the platform of HAZ status we can begin to move forward with plans to improve Goole’s conservation area.”

Cllr Andy Burton, cabinet portfolio holder for economic development and planning delivery, said: “East Riding of Yorkshire Council is committed to preserving the heritage of the area and is continuing to work closely with its partners and the local community in Goole.

“The town has a rich industrial and maritime history that should be celebrated and shared. We hope that by securing the support of Historic England we can start to tell Goole’s story to the world.”
Historic England will now assess the proposal.