PART of an historic South Lakeland village has been included on the national heritage at risk register after five prominent buildings began showing signs of deterioration and decay.

The passage of time and traffic has taken its toll on the privately-owned, unoccupied and unused buildings - one of which is listed - in Burton-in-Kendal.

Some are showing loss of historical detail and it is feared that they may deteriorate beyond economic repair if no action is taken.

South Lakeland District Council alerted Historic England to these early warning signs and the Burton-in-Kendal Conservation Area has now been included in the National Heritage at Risk Register.

It means SLDC can bid for funding from English Heritage to help fund enhancement and restoration work to secure the future of important buildings in the village.

Cllr Matt Severn, SLDC’s Portfolio Holder for Culture, Media and Leisure, says the announcement that the village is being added to Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register will help to kick-start its recovery.

“This is a wake-up call which will be heard and acted upon. This council is determined to nip these early signs of decline in the bud and ensure Burton-in-Kendal’s historic environment is improved and cherished for generations to come,” he said.

“We approached Historic England to seek their support in highlighting the condition of Burton’s heritage and their future assistance will be vital in helping us to understand the pressures, overcome the challenges and revive the fortunes of this proud South Lakeland village.

“Now is the time to act to secure the future of these buildings, if not they might not have one. We need to find ways to reverse this decline, find new uses where appropriate and ensure that these properties and the distinctive character of the area isn’t lost to future generations.”

Working with Historic England, SLDC will now be able to get access to specialist advice, help and be able to bid for potential funding.

The council says it also hopes to work closely with the local parish council and the community to produce a management plan and a design guide to help residents and developers implement more sympathetic and sensitive changes.

Cllr Roger Bingham, a professional historian who represents the district ward of Burton and Holme, said: “Burton is very proud of its architecturally varied and generally well-cared for historic buildings. Consequently I am sure most local people and our welcome visitors will join with the parish council and myself in welcoming any professional advice or funding which will contribute to enhancing this important ancient village.”

L Sedgwick Gun Powder Works have been put on the 'at risk' register because of damage caused through flooding during Storm Desmond.

The gunpowders manufactured there from 1857 until 1935 were used for mining, quarrying and other blasting activities. Today, many remains can be seen, including those of mills, a pump house, a saltpetre refinery, a boiler station, stables and a joiner's shop, together with large parts of the water management system which powered the waterwheels and water turbines. Historic England is going to work with the National Trust to address the problems caused by the flooding and protect the site in the longer term.

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