Designated in 1990, Hatcham Conservation Area is made up of commercial buildings in New Cross Road with terrace housing behind. Its name possibly derives from Anglo Saxon meaning ‘a clearing in the woods’ and the name was also used at an eighteenth century manor house called Hatcham Park. From 1614, the land was owned by the Worshipful Company of Haberdashers and when the manor house was demolished in the 1840s, the Haberdashers allowed terraces to be built to strict specifications.
Buildings in New Cross Road are larger, many being earlier houses with shops built later in their front gardens. Distinctive late-Victorian buildings can be seen at the junction with Queen’s Road by the roundabout displaying an Egyptian-style vent pipe.
Do I need planning permission?
The Council has a duty to preserve or enhance the character of its conservation areas. In order to achieve this, there are more planning controls in conservation areas.
An Article 4 direction now covers the whole of the conservation area which means you must apply for planning permission before making alterations to the exterior of your house. Find out more about preserving the character of Hatcham.
If you live in a house converted to flats or occupy a commercial property, planning permission will be required for all alterations to external elevations.
This information is not comprehensive and should not be relied on as fact in your particular situation. You are strongly advised to check whether permission is needed when considering works as mistakes can lead to delays or even enforcement action. Contact the Planning Information Service for further details
Works to trees
Trees in conservation areas are protected and the Council must be formally notified of all works to trees within the conservation area. For more information go to tree preservation orders.