Historic England partnership boost for town's heritage

The chairman of Historic England has visited Selby as part of a new initiative that aims to promote the unique heritage of our area.

Sir Laurie Magnus's organisation champions and aims to protect historic places while seeking to help people understand, value and care for them. It is also the body with the power to give 'listed' status to buildings of historical merit.

His visit to the town marks the start of a partnership between Historic England and Selby District Council who want to drive economic growth and make it a great place to live.

Sir Laurie visited Selby on Friday, 31 March to see for himself what the area has to offer, and how the two organisations can work together to support and help develop its historic ‘offer’. 

Speaking after the visit he said, “There’s so much on offer in this area, and so much that makes it special.

"For example, there aren’t many market towns like Selby that can boast Yorkshire’s earliest railway station, the town park, a tremendous abbey and market square in such close proximity; all of which create a great backdrop to a range of local independent shops.  It’s clear that the historic heart of this area is one of the keys to unlocking its successful future.”

For its part in the deal, the council says it will commit to enhancing its planning service and make the most of the district’s historic assets and market towns – Selby, Tadcaster and Sherburn in Elmet. To this end, Historic England staff are already working directly alongside the council’s planning team, to offer expert guidance and advice to further improve the quality of service available.