Key areas of South Tyneside are designated as conservation spots, but Cleadon, Cleadon Hills and East Boldon have been rated as 'at risk' by the Government body.

Its Heritage at Risk 2009 report, released today, says the top threats to conservation areas are plastic windows and doors, satellite dishes and street clutter.

Unsightly extensions, large advertisements and poorly maintained roads were also named as factors.

Cleadon and East Boldon Coun David Potts called for the council to take the report seriously.

He said: "The Conservative councillors for Cleadon and East Boldon are deeply passionate about protecting the unique character of our wonderful villages.

"We are grateful for the excellent work that English Heritage carries out. South Tyneside Council should take these concerns very seriously."

One in five of 243 conservation areas surveyed recently in the region is now considered to be at risk.

Based on those findings, English Heritage is launching a Conservation Areas at Risk campaign to encourage residents, local groups and councils to work together to improve these special places.

Carol Pyrah, English Heritage planning and development director for North East England, said: "Our survey shows that conservation areas with community support are more than twice as likely to have improved over the last three years as those without."

English Heritage wants local authorities to make greater use of Article 4 directions, which give councils more control over small changes in conservation areas, and to see council departments working together to take care of the public areas,with local people getting involved.

A spokesman for South Tyneside Council said: "We have completed Conservation Area Management Plans for eight of our 11 conservation areas – including Cleadon, Cleadon Hills and East Boldon – and are in the process of producing the remaining three.

"Each plan is based on a character appraisal, and all character appraisals and management plans have been drawn-up in consultation with local people."

"We work hard to preserve these areas, and as part of this we have used, and will continue to use, Article 4 directions."