PLANS to make an area of Potters Bar a designated conservation area are set to be discussed tonight (Thursday).

Councillors on the Potters Bar and Shenley planning committee will meet at the Wyllotts Centre off Darkes Lane this evening, to consider a proposal to protect a residential area of Darkes Lane, The Avenue, Heath Drive, Manor Way and Mountway.

The site, which would become the Darkes Lane west Conservation Area, has been identified on account of its “special architectural and historic interest” according to planning papers.

The area was formerly a rural location which was first developed in the early 20th century as the Potters Bar Garden Estate, which was to share similar characteristics to that of nearby Garden Cities, WGC and Letchworth.

The plan was never fully completed, but a number of notable houses were built, including designs by renowned architect Sir Banister Fletcher.

If the plans are approved, it would mean any development proposals within the conservation area would need to complement the character of the surrounding landscape.

Hertsmere Borough Council might also implement an enhancement scheme in the area, which may involve improving road surfaces, reducing unattractive street furniture and retaining grass verges and trees.

The meeting starts at 7.30pm