RESIDENTS in a North Oxfordshire village are being asked for their opinion on how the character of their area can be preserved and enhanced.

Changes are to be made conservation boundaries in Swalcliffe which could include historic buildings and landmarks being given heritage status.

A public meeting and exhibition will be held in the village on July 5 where representatives of the district council's conservation team will be providing advice and answers to any questions.

People can have their say on what spaces they feel are worthy of recognition, how the landscape can be managed and what actions local councils can take to preserve the area.

Cherwell's lead member for planning Colin Clarke said: "While it is not unusual for us to conduct a conservation area appraisal, it is essential that we can involve as many people as possible.

"It is an opportunity for people who live in the area to tell us what they think is important, what needs protecting and the steps we can take to improve the area for everyone."

The draft plans can be viewed at Swalcliffe village hall in Green Lane between 4pm and 6pm, before a public meeting between 7pm and 8.30pm.

If residents cannot attend the plans can also be viewed at the North Area Mobile Library, Banbury Library, Bodicote House and at cherwell.gov.uk.

Comments must be emailed to design.conservation@cherwell-dc.gov.uk with the subject header Swalcliffe Conservation before August 17.