What Are Conservation Areas?

What is The Purpose of A Conservation Area?

In the U.K., conservation areas exist to protect and preserve places with special architectural or historic significance. Conservation areas are managed by local councils, who have a say as to what works can be carried out to any property in one of these locations.

The first conservation areas were introduced in 1967 under the Civic Amenities Act, a response to the wave of post-war development. Today, they are mainly governed by the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990, helping to safeguard the character and charm of historic towns, villages, and landscapes across the country.

Development isn’t entirely off-limits in these areas, but any changes need to be handled with care and this is where the expertise of a design team is vital. At Christopher David Design, we ensure that the design of new architecture respects the area’s heritage while still meeting the needs of our clients. It’s this balance that can underpin a planning application decision, so getting things right from the start is key.

Whether you’re a homeowner or a developer, it’s essential to follow the guidelines set by your local planning authority to get approval for any alterations or new buildings. To discuss your conservation area design project, please contact us today. We are proud to offer a free consultation to help you to realise your ideas and set you up for successful design.

Understanding Conservation Areas and Planning Permission

There’s a lot to think about when it comes to planning permission, and doing your homework beforehand can make all the difference. From engaging early on with the local planning authority to reviewing the conservation area status of the town you’re located in, there are several steps to follow to make the process successful.

Consult With a Heritage Officer

Before commencing with any sort of historical renovation or architectural works, you should always consult local authorities and a heritage officer. In doing so, you will learn about the historic and architectural elements that provide the unique character of the area. Local authorities can provide you with key information regarding previous successful renovations to homes considered to be a historic environment. They can also inform you as to the likelihood of being approved for works and give tips on what is required for approval.

Work With An Experienced Architectural Designer

It is essential to work closely with a designer that understands conservation areas and can liaise with your local planning authority. A good designer will have a vast portfolio showcasing previous projects in conservation areas and will be able to guide you through the process with ease.

Keep to Traditional Materials

In conservation areas, you’ll usually need to use materials that match the existing style, like natural stone, timber, or period-appropriate brickwork. The goal is to keep things in line with the area’s character, and if you’re working on a listed building, this becomes even more important.

Keep Scale and Proportion in Check

Any new development or extension should blend in with the surrounding buildings. If something looks too big or out of place, it could face objections from residents or scrutiny from planning authorities. Paying attention to height, symmetry, and overall proportions will help avoid issues.

Preserve Original Features

Features like sash windows, decorative cornices, and wrought-iron railings are part of what makes conservation areas special. Keeping or restoring these details not only helps maintain the area’s charm but can also improve your chances of getting planning permission.

Talk to Your Local Planning Authority

It’s always a good idea to check in with your local planning authority before submitting your planning proposal. This can help flag any potential issues early on, giving you the chance to tweak your plans and improve your chances of approval. You can also review conservation area appraisals to better understand your position.

Consider a Heritage Impact Assessment

A heritage impact assessment can give you a clearer picture of how your project fits within the conservation area and what you want to do to protect the special architectural or historic charm of your propety. It’s a great way to show that you’re serious about preserving the area’s character and can help strengthen your application.

Examples of Conservation Areas in England

England is home to many conservation areas, and you might even live near one without realising it. You can take a look at the Historic England’s website to find further information about conservation areas in the U.K. Here are a few of our favourites, along with an overview of their history:

• York’s Historic Centre – York, in northeast England, is brimming with history; from its medieval streets and ancient city walls to the breathtaking York Minster. Parts of the city date back to 71 AD, and much of the centre is a conservation area, protected for rich heritage and special architectural interest.
• The City of Bath – As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bath is famous for its stunning Georgian architecture and Roman influences. Its conservation status helps ensure these historical elements are preserved for future generations.
• Greenwich, London – Known for its maritime history, Greenwich is a conservation area thanks to its deep ties to the Royal Navy and its striking architecture. The area’s historical significance makes it one of London’s most treasured sites.

Conservation Areas and Permitted Development

Conservation areas have restrictions in place when it comes to development. We’ve outlined some of the rules and regulations below:

• Planning permission – Any new development needs approval to ensure it fits the area’s historic character.
• Demolition controls – You’ll need special permission from your local planning authority to demolish or significantly alter a building of historic interest.
• Tree preservation order – Many trees are protected within conservation areas, meaning you must get approval before pruning or removing them.
• Article 4 Directions – Your council can impose extra restrictions, limiting changes to things like roofing or windows in conservation areas.
• Property Impacts – If you’re renovating, expect stricter planning rules. It’s worth researching before applying and consulting with a Conservation Officer.

Initiate Your Conservation Area Design Project Today

We hope that you have found this guide insightful and informative. As you have likely realised, conservation areas play a key part in British culture, and preserving their unique charm is very important. That said, it is still possible to make alterations to a property of architectural or historic interest, so long as you follow the right process. Contact our team for a free consultation and to find out more about our approach to sensitive design within conservation areas. We look forward to hearing from you.