Historic pubs, buildings and churches will now be protected after plans were approved to expand Great Harwood’s conservation area.

The boundaries around the town centre are set to double in size to include treasured features on Blackburn Road and Queen Street seen on maps dating back to 1818.

The conservation area will also be expanded to protect the Grade II listed St Bartholomew’s Church and surrounding streets.

The move has been welcomed by councillors and the town’s Community Action Group but some residents and business owners have raised concerns.

It means that owners of properties that fall under the conservation area will need to permission before making certain changes. Under the scheme, approved by councillors last week, properties and shops along Blackburn Road, Queen Street as far as Mercer Street, Church Street and Mill Street, would be protected.

This area includes town landmarks such as the Methodist Chapel built in 1853 on Commercial Road, which is now a pub, and the Walmsley Arms, built in 1788. Optional extensions include three small areas of terraced houses including the whole of Cattle Street and parts of Loynd Street, Westwell Street and Water Street. The area around St Bartholomew’s Church would also protect important buildings, views and green spaces.

Five consultation responses were received by the council, with one resident raising concerns about planning restraints on homeowners.

Another businessman, who operates two firms in the area, also opposed the conservation area extension, saying it would restrict what people can do with their properties and further business development.

Speaking at the cabinet meeting last week, council leader Miles Parkinson said: “It’s been some time coming and I’m pleased that it is now finally here.

“I know a lot of work has gone into it and a lot of consultation has been done. I’m pleased that the areas are connected up and it’s not two separate areas.

“We have continued investment going into Great Harwood, like the Towngate upgrade, and anything further in those areas will fall into the conservation area remit.”

Ian Robinson, of the town’s Community Action Group, told the meeting: “We do welcome this.

“It’s been in the making for a long time, which I don’t think people are aware of, so we’re very happy.”