Designated in 1992, the Lisburn Conservation Area includes Bow Street, with its modern buildings, the 19th century Railway Street and Seymour Street alongside the older and distinctive 18th century historic core of Bridge Street, Castle Street and the Market Square. The historic core of Lisburn has a fine heritage of historical associations and buildings of architectural character. The Conservation Area is identified on Map No. 2/001 – Lisburn City, Map No. 2/035 – Lisburn City Centre and Map No. 47 – Lisburn Conservation Area.

Development Proposals within Lisburn Conservation Area will be assessed in accordance with prevailing regional planning policy as currently set out in PPS 6 Planning, Archaeology and the Built Heritage, Policy UE2 as set out in Part 3, Volume 1 of the Plan, additional design criteria as set out below and any design guidance.

Lisburn Castle Gardens Historic Park, Garden and Demesne is an extensive area within the City of Lisburn, consisting of green space with paths and decorative planting. This site is a remaining part of the gardens for the Castle of 1622, which was destroyed by fire in 1707. As the castle was never rebuilt some of the area was developed as a public pleasure ground, so there is a long tradition of public access. There is an avenue of mature trees, lawns and flowerbeds, and there are two fountains contained within the Park.

This Historic Park, Garden and Demesne makes a valuable contribution to the quality and character of the local landscape in Lisburn City Centre, and further details are included in a register of Historic Parks and Gardens and Demesnes of special historic interest in Northern Ireland. This register summarises the historical significance of the sites. Additional information is contained in the Countryside Assessment Technical Supplement.

Prevailing regional policy for the protection of Historic Parks, Gardens and Demesnes of special historic interest is set out in PPS 6 – Planning, Archaeology and Built Heritage.

Area of Archaeological Potential

In accordance with PPS 6 - Planning, Archaeology and the Built Heritage, the Area of Archaeological Potential in Lisburn City Centre is highlighted for information in the Countryside Assessment Technical Supplement.

Areas of Archaeological Potential indicate to developers where, on the basis of current knowledge, it is likely that archaeological remains will be encountered in the course of continuing development and change. Developers are advised to liaise with the Department before submitting any proposals within these areas.

Urban Design

The Urban Design Criteria aim to achieve greater consolidation of the City Centre as a key urban space, with appropriate forms of development and civic space. They will assist promotion of the development of key sites in accordance with the principles of good design. Policy for Urban Design Criteria is contained in Policy UE 1 in Part 3, Volume 1 of the Plan.