How does living in a conservation area affect me?

Conservation Areas are areas identified as having special architectural or historic interest, the character or appearance of which is worth preserving or enhancing.

Planning controls are tighter in conservation areas, although the level of planning control varies between buildings, depending on whether they are listed buildings, single family dwellings, commercial buildings or flats and also whether there is an 'Article 4 Direction' in place. 

Any application for planning permission in a conservation area will be considered in terms of the effect of the proposal on the character and appearance of the area, in addition to other normal planning considerations.

Further guidance on making changes in conservation areas and information on specific conservation areas

Back to Frequently Asked Questions