Kippen Conservation Area

The village of Kippen is an historic agricultural centre which can trace its history from prehistoric times. An important crossroads for ancient trade routes as well as a stopping point on the 18th century military road between Dumbarton and Stirling, the village still has several features of interest recalling its historic importance, from the typical medieval market place layout around the Cross, the war memorial and churchyard, and the nearby Cross Keys Hotel; to the 18th century Smiddy and wheelwright's shop in Rennies Loan, only closed in 1985.

As well as researching the origins and development the Kippen conservation area, our appraisal and management review recommended encouraging appropriate new developments to increase the sense of enclosure and enhance the appearance of the main streets, preserving views, restoring garden walls and disused properties, and rationalising the boundaries. Other recommendations included an audit of replacement windows and a baseline photographic survey, improved street furniture and lighting and undergrounding overhead wires.