Improvement and enhancement
Where buildings on vacant sites would enhance the character of the area, the new structures need not be imitations of old buildings; indeed it is preferable that each one should have a vitality of its own and reflect the period in which it is built.
Designers should respect the architectural character of the existing historic buildings and create proposals which harmonise with them. It is preferable to use natural materials such as stone, brick, or other solid traditional materials, rather than cladding, concrete, glass or plastic.
Existing historic buildings require careful maintenance to ensure that their character is not adversely affected and to ensure their continued existence, because it is clear that the qualities of the area are in part established by the completeness of both sides of St John Street and of Byrom Street.