Two conservation areas set up with the aim of preserving Swindon’s industrial heritage could be merged.

The borough council's planning committee will be asked tonight to endorse a plan to merge The Railway Village conservation area with the Railway Works area. They are next to each other, divided by the railway tracks. If the plan is approved, then the whole area will be treated as one.

A report to councillors says the move would help to safeguard the town's heritage and make the best use of its heritage assets. The Railway Village was made a conservation area in 1975 while the railway works was added in 1987.

"The adoption and application of updated conservation area management plans will assist in the preservation and management of change and enhancement within the defined boundary area,” says the report.

The meeting starts at 6pm. Members of the public are able to attend online. Visit swindon.gov.uk for more.