Whilst there are some restrictions on the works that can be undertaken within a conservation area, this does not mean that no development can occur.
However, development will only be considered acceptable in heritage terms if it preserves the special architectural and historic interest of the conservation area, in line with Section 72(1) of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990.
Read more about living in a conservation area Living in a Conservation Area | Historic England
Planning
Planning applications for development within conservation areas, including new buildings and alterations to existing buildings, should demonstrate how the proposals would preserve or enhance the character of the area. Special attention should be given to the design, scale and use of materials, so that the existing character of the area is not damaged.
Conservation Area status brings with it certain restrictions to the permitted development rights enjoyed by homeowners and businesses (such as the rights to carry out development without planning permission).
Here is a list of the types of residential development that may require planning permission within a conservation area. This list is not a definitive so if you're unsure if planning permission is required please use the Council’s pre-application advice service.
- Extensions to the side of a property
- Two-storey extensions to the rear of a property
- External cladding of a property (including stone, artificial stone, pebble dash, render, timber, plastic or tiles)
- Alterations to roofs for the enlargement of a property (including dormer windows)
- Windows and doors, in some limited circumstances
- Satellite dishes, antennae, chimneys, flues and other elements added to, and protruding from walls or roof slopes fronting the highway or forming the main or side elevation of a property
- The erection of some structures within the grounds of a property (including garages, sheds and outbuildings)
Demolitions
For the demolition of structures in conservation areas with volumes exceeding 115 cubic metres, an application for Conservation Area Consent is usually needed in addition to any other permissions required for subsequent development.
If a replacement structure is proposed, particularly where the structure it is proposed to demolish has some merit, the relative merits of the proposed replacement will need to be set against those of the existing structure. The two are not indivisible, and in such cases applications for Conservation Area Consent should not be made in isolation.
Trees
Owners of trees in conservation areas must give the council six weeks notice of their intention to carry out works (such as lopping, topping or felling) to a tree or trees before carrying out any works. Read more about working on protected trees.
