If you’re looking for a truly unique property, consider buying a house in a conservation area. However, before you rush in and sign on the dotted line, be sure you know exactly what it entails to own property in a conservation area. Here’s everything you need to know!
What is a conservation area?
A conservation area is an area of special architectural or historical interest. The local council designated it as such to help preserve and enhance the area’s character and appearance – essentially all the features that make it unique and distinctive.
If you don’t know whether your property is in a conservation area or not, you can find out by contacting the local planning authority.
They will be able to tell you:
- When they created the conservation area
- How far the conservation area extends
- Why they deemed it a conservation area
- The level of legal protection the conservation area has in place
What impact does buying a house in a conservation area have?
Extra controls are in place in conservation areas.
The level of restrictions placed on properties in a conservation area are there to keep the area special. The only real impact it will have on you, is if you want to:
- Alter the outside of your property. Any exterior works that you want to do, i.e. replace doors, windows, guttering etc. you will have to apply for planning permission from your local authority
- Demolish your property. Even unlisted buildings in a conservation area count towards its uniqueness, and the loss of any buildings could have a potential impact on the wider conservation area. For this reason, you must seek planning permission to demolish any building over 115 cubic square metres
- Cut down trees. Any works that you wish to do to trees on your property, you will have to notify the proper authority, 6 weeks in advance of the works commencing. The local authority can then decide on the level of contribution the tree makes to the area, and if necessary, create a Tree Prevention Order.
- Affect the biodiversity of the area. You need to consider protected species and habitats if you are planning building works.
- Carry out minor works. Any simple minor works that you would normally not need to consider seeking permission for, you will have to seek permission for in a conservation area. Even putting up a satellite dish might require permission. Normally, where you could do work under permitted development rights, this right is restricted for properties in a conservation area.
How to deal with planning application resistance or rejection
Should you anticipate coming up against resistance, you could always seek professional assistance to aid you in pre-planning. Consider using a local architect who has experience with the local planning authority’s requirements.
If people object to your planning application, don’t be disheartened; the planning authority will provide you with feedback on why they rejected or might reject it. Talk to the department if you still don’t understand – ask them if changing your plans will help.
You can usually submit new/modified plans, free of charge, within 12 months of submitting the original plans.
Alternatively, if you think the rejection is unreasonable, you can appeal. This, however, should only be done as a last resort!
Your conservation area maintenance obligations
If a property falls in a conservation area, you have the responsibility to repair and maintain it, without loss of its character or integrity.
Failure to do so could result in the local authority serving you with an Urgent Works Notice.
The council encourages you to repair a property in a conservation area rather than replace parts, allowing replacements only if they enhance the appearance or character of the area.
You should carry out repairs using original designs, methods, and materials.
Before you buy in a new area, ensure you’ve done your research thoroughly. Phil Spencer’s Property Report can do this for you! A full report contains information on everything from a property’s title register, residents and neighbours to local schools. Get yours below.
Last Updated: June 26th, 2024
