People are urged to have their say on how sites of architectural or historical interest should be protected.

Suffolk Coastal District Council has launched a three month public consultation looking at the five conservation areas of Aldeburgh, Dunwich, Framlingham, Snape Maltings and Walberswick.

The draft appraisals aim to identify characteristics and features that are unique - including buildings, trees and open spaces.

They will also detail how planning applications should be considered and suggest ways in which they can be managed and improved.

The district council has already reviewed 29 of its 34 “Conservation Area Appraisals”, with these final few the last on the list.

Andy Smith, cabinet member for planning, said: “It’s important that the public take part in the appraisal process. It’s an opportunity to recognise the changes that need to be made to preserve or enhance each area in the future, and how its appearance can be protected and its development managed.”

A new conservation area in part of Felixstowe South was created in June 2009 to extend the protection given to the town’s important late Victorian and Edwardian architectural heritage.

Since June 2010, the council has also completed appraisals for conservation areas in Earl Soham, Grundisburgh, Melton, Orford, Peasenhall, Thorpeness, Westleton, Woodbridge and Yoxford , helping to influence local planning decisions.

Mr Smith added: “We understand that many people take an interest in our townscapes, so comments and opinions on the draft appraisals are very welcome, as the final versions will play an important role in keeping these key parts of our district as special as they are now.

“There are no proposals in the appraisal to alter the boundaries of the conservation areas but suggestions for doing so are welcome for any future boundary review.”

To view the documents visit www.suffolkcoastal.gov.uk and click on the “conservation area appraisals” link.