TWO areas of the borough could be given new protection against development.

Hillingdon Council has approved in principle the designation of an area surrounding Rockingham Bridge in Uxbridge, as a conservation area. The Raisins Hill Estate, in Eastcote, would become an Area of Special Local Character.

The move is designed to protect the look of the areas – in the case of Uxbridge, the 19th century houses in Rockingham Road and on the edge of Fassnidge Park.

People living in both areas will now be consulted on the plans before a final decision is made.

A document produced by the council explains how the demolition of buildings and the materials used in building and restoration will be more tightly controlled, and also how trees gain greater protection.

Residents in both areas will now be sent an information pack containing information about the area, reasons for designation and any planning implications for them.

Dr Phil Surman, who lives in Rockingham Parade, welcomed the move.

He told the Gazette: “I think that it is a very good idea to protect the character of the area.

“My home was built in the 1830s and is one of the few, if not the only one, still to have its original windows and roof.

“Anything that can protect the area has to be welcomed.”