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Conservation areas - control of development

What does Conservation Area designation mean?
Within a conservation area the local authority has extra controls over:

• demolition
• minor developments
• the protection of trees
• the design of new development

Demolition
Consent is required to totally or substantially demolish any building in a conservation area. Procedures are basically the same as for listed building consent applications. The Council will generally resist the loss of buildings that make a positive contribution to the character or appearance of the conservation area.

Minor developments
Within conservation areas there is greater control over work which would otherwise be 'permitted development'. For example, permission would be required to install roof dormer windows, or for certain types of cladding such as stone of timber. In certain circumstances permission is also required for satellite dishes.

Trees
Trees can make an important contribution to the character of a conservation area. Anyone proposing to cut down, top or lop a tree in a conservation area, whether or not it is covered by a tree preservation order, has to give six weeks notice to the local authority. If you wish to submit a notice you can use the national standard application form which will ensure that we have all the information needed to consider the proposal. The form is available on our Planning application forms web page (form number 31).

During the six week period the local authority can assess the contribution that the tree makes to the character of the area and decide whether to place a preservation order on it. Anyone not complying with this requirement can be fined up to £20,000. For further information concerning trees in conservation areas please contact the Trees section or telephone 01883 732869.

Design
Special attention is paid to the design of new development in conservation areas. Though exact replication of traditional styles is not usually appropriate, a design which is sympathetic to the character of the area will be required.

In determining planning applications the Council will need to judge whether the proposal would preserve or enhance the character of the area. Materials should reflect those found locally and hard surfaces and landscaping should respect and integrate with the local scene.

Use of traditional materials
It should be remembered that designation is not intended as a means of preventing change - places need to be able to change and adapt as they have always done. Conservation area designation enables the local planning authority to better manage this change so that the character of the area is not undermined.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Further information and guidance
Conservation Area consent guide
Bletchingley Conservation Area appraisal

Kenley Aerodrome Conservation Area proposals statement.

Related Pages:

Conservation areas    Conservation areas (Pages)

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