General Planning Advice

Conservation Areas

The streets and buildings of our towns and villages are part of our historic heritage and each townscape tells the story of its unique development, and gives us a sense of place, continuity and cultural identity. Where these places are of special architectural or historic interest or deserve to receive careful protection, the Council has designated these as conservation areas. However, this does not mean that they have to remain frozen in time, change is often necessary to accommodate the demands of modern living. As our historic town and village centres are always likely to attract new development, the challenge is how to enhance, rather than detract from their special local character.

Conservation areas vary greatly in their nature and character. They range from the centres of our historic towns and cities, through fishing and mining villages, 18th- and 19th-century suburbs, model housing estates, and country houses set in their historic parks, to historic transport links and their environs, such as stretches of canal.

The special character of these areas does not come from the quality of their buildings alone. The historic layout of roads, paths and boundaries; characteristic building and paving materials; a particular 'mix' of building uses; public and private spaces, such as gardens, parks and greens; and trees and street furniture, which contribute to particular views - all these and more make up the familiar local scene. Conservation areas give broader protection than listing individual buildings: all the features, listed or otherwise, within the area, are recognised as part of its character.

The Council has the power to designate as conservation areas in any area of 'special architectural or historic interest' whose character or appearance is worth protecting or enhancing. This 'specialness' is judged against local and regional criteria, rather than national importance as is the case with listing.

What does designation mean?

If an area that is designated as a Conservation Area more stringent planning controls exist, which include the need to obtain consent for the demolition of certain buildings, minor developments and alteration to existing buildings, and works to trees.

If you are likely to be undertaking any work within a Conservation Area you are strongly advised to contact the Area Planning Team in writing so that we can inform you whether or not you need permission for these works.

You can also find out more general information and guidance from the Council’s joint publication Living in a Conservation Area: a guide for residents