'Hidden gems' sought for council heritage list

Swale Borough Council says suggestions can include structures, buildings, areas and landscapes

Residents in an area of Kent are being asked for landmarks to add to a list of "hidden gems" heritage sites.

Swale Borough Council says suggestions can include structures, buildings, monuments, sites, places, areas or landscapes which are valued by local communities and contribute to the "character and local distinctiveness of an area".

Approved nominations will receive the status of non-designated heritage assets, making the conservation of the sites a material consideration in any planning applications.

Some sites currently on the list include Faversham's Edwardian red brick police station, Sheerness' water tower on Trinity Road, and the Hartlip Endowed C of E Primary School.

The list is currently made up of more than 150 sites.

Mike Baldock, the council's heritage champion, said: "This heritage list is an amazing catalogue of the hidden gems across the borough, from larger buildings like the Faversham Pools, war-time pill boxes scattered around our countryside, to small road markings and signs.

"All of these sites offer their own unique glimpse into the varied history of our amazing borough, but unfortunately don't meet the criteria for national listing."

People have until 17 October to make their nominations.