On this page you can find answers to frequently asked questions on conservation areas. If you can't find the information you're looking for in this section, you can contact the Planning Information Service, whose contact details are below.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I live in a conservation area?
When you buy a house your solicitor will carry out a land charges search and this will show if your house is in a conservation area. When the Council designates new conservation areas we will inform residents by putting an advert in a local newspaper and usually by writing to each resident affected.
If you are unsure, the planning information office will be able to tell you if your house is in a conservation area.
Why has my area been made a conservation area?
All conservation areas have a different character, but generally they are all designated for their historic and architectural character and appearance which the Council feels it is desirable to preserve.
Many things make up the character of conservation areas including their historic buildings, layout, gardens, trees and general appearance. The Council will seek to prevent unsuitable developments which would spoil that character.
What alterations can I make in a conservation area?
The Council’s duty to preserve the character of its conservation areas means that residents do not necessarily enjoy the same permitted development rights as people living outside conservation areas.
What you can and can’t do varies from one conservation area to another and whether you live in a house or a flat (which includes houses converted to flats).
In very general terms, you may well need planning permission to change your roof, windows, front door, front garden walls or make other alterations to elevations visible from the street (this list is not exhaustive).
Contact the planning information office, details at the bottom of this page for further information, giving details of the works you would like to do and your address.
I live in a conservation area, do I need permission to prune or fell my trees?
Trees in conservation areas are protected as they contribute to the character of the area. Before carrying out works to trees or felling trees in a conservation area, you must notify the Council. Forms are available from the planning information office.
Are there any grants available to help with works to houses in conservation areas?
The Council does not give grants specifically for the conservation of residential houses. However the housing grants department has a range of grants available. Follow the link on the right for more information about housing grants.
Few grants are available to private owners for domestic restoration purposes. There are, however, many grants available to charities for restoration projects, outlined on the Funds for Historic Buildings website.