Minera sits some 7km to the west of Wrexham occupying an elevated upland position at the head of the Clywedog Valley, overlooked to the south by the prominent north-facing limestone scarp of Esclusham Mountain. The upland topography, open and exposed ground and lack of tree cover create distinctive scenery and provide Minera with far-reaching views down the Clywedog Valley and towards Wrexham Town Centre.

The conservation area focuses upon the historic settlement which is dispersed and scattered on both sides of the Clywedog Valley. Development of the area has been greatly influenced by the historic exploitation of minerals and stones during the Industrial Revolution of the late 18th and 19th Centuries, the remnants of which remain hidden within the surrounding landscape.

The recent extension to the Clwydian Range Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) has included the eastern slope of the Esclusham Mountain with part of the western section of the conservation area also included within the AONB boundary. This designation reinforces the significance of the landscape to the character of Minera Conservation Area.

The Minera Conservation Area was first designated in July 1975 and its boundary amended and enlarged in May 1981 and July 2002 to take in more of the areas historic buildings and remnants of former industrial activity and the sections of the surrounding landscape which strengthen the character of the area. The Minera Conservation Area Character Assessment and Management Plan was adopted in December 2012.

To request a copy of the Character Assessment and Management Plan email planning_admin@wrexham.gov.uk.