HISTORICAL buildings in Bicester town centre including a pub and a pet cemetery have been given greater protection.

The Bicester Conservation Area has been extended by Cherwell District Council in its first review of the zone since 1992.

It has added Field Street and an extension at Pingle Field.

A list of buildings of “architectural or historical significance” has been drawn up to get further protection during key planning decisions.

These include the HSBC bank, The Penny Black pub in Sheep Street and the Bicester Magistrates’ Court building and the police station, both in Queens Avenue.

The pet cemetery in the grounds of The Garth, Bicester Cemetery Chapel and Bicester North Railway Station have also been included.

Penny Black duty manager Rob Hymes said: “It certainly is a historic pub, it’s the old Post Office. It’s good because it means the building will be here for quite a long time.”

The building dates from 1914.

The news was welcomed by Bicester Local History Society, which held an exhibition on the proposals this year.

Chairman Bob Hessian said: “A place like Bicester is under great pressure for new development.

“It is important if there are buildings of interest or of sufficient character that they are preserved in some way.”

The conservation area was created in 1969 amid greater awareness and action over the protection of England’s historic buildings.

Michael Gibbard, lead member for planning, said: “Field Street and the small extension at Pingle Field deserve the protection that conservation area designation brings.

“The appraisal will ensure future changes will not only be in sympathy with the special characteristics of the different areas within the town but will also enhance them.”

There are 58 conservation areas in the district. They place restrictions on work including demolition and alterations such as windows, satellite dishes and solar panels.