HISTORICAL and important buildings in Stourport are set to receive extra recognition to safeguard the town's heritage for future generations.

Around 200 structures have made it on to Wyre Forest District Council's proposed List of Buildings of Local Interest.

The council has consulted people in the town, including members of Stourport Civic Society, for several months to draw up the list.

Several pubs, including The Brinton Arms, The Swan Hotel and The Squirrel Inn, have made it on to the first draft.

Others include the former Baptist Chapel in Lickhill Road, which is now used by Jehovah's Witnesses, and TP Toys' factory and shop building.

One notable absentee from the list is the town's Civic Centre.

Its closure is one of the options being considered under the council's single site proposals and it was the subject of a failed listed status application last year.

Stourport Civic Society chairman, Pauline Annis, said: "The idea behind it is to try and give some recognition to buildings that are not officially listed.

"It is something we have wanted and have been campaigning for for some time and we are pleased that it is finally happening."

District councillor, June Salter, who represents the Mitton ward, welcomed the scheme and said more could be added to the list after a period of public consultation.

She explained: "I think it is exceptional and it is really pleasing because Stourport is a very interesting town, with many important buildings.

"We are an up-and-coming little town again and deserve the recognition. With all the redevelopment work that is going on it is an exciting time."

A Kidderminster list, which included more than 230 structures, was approved by councillors in 2004.

A similar initiative is planned for Bewdley later this year and the scheme is due to be extended to rural areas in the district after that.