Undertaking Work in Conservation Areas If your property is located within a conservation area and you want to demolish additions to an existing building, undertake a new development, erect a satellite dish or an advertisement or even chop down or prune a tree, you may require planning permission.
Planning applications in conservation areas are publicised by a site notice and a newspaper advertisement. Any responses received as a result are considered when determining an application.
Demolition of buildings
Conservation area consent is required for the substantial or total demolition of buildings or structures (including walls, chimneys and outhouses). If demolition is being considered, please consult the council's planning department well in advance to find out whether consent is actually needed and if so, what information is required to be provided along with an application. There is a presumption against approving the demolition of buildings which positively contribute to the character or appearance of a conservation area. It is an offence to undertake demolition without consent.
Trees
Trees in conservation areas often make an important contribution to the character of the local environment. In a conservation area, the proposed lopping, topping or felling of a tree should be notified to the council, which then has six weeks to consider whether a tree preservation order should be made.
New developments
You may need additional information in support of any planning applications showing how a proposal will relate to the conservation area. This can mean the submission of elevations of adjacent buildings, full details of the proposal and examples of materials and colours. Usually, only a fully detailed application will be considered.
The Southwark Plan (2007) contains the detailed policies regarding the design of new developments and other proposals in conservation areas.
Minor alterations and additions
Some minor alterations and additions can be carried out without planning permission, but this differs between conservation areas. If the house is a listed building, then listed building consent is required.
Satellite dishes
Planning permission is required to erect a satellite dish on a property in a conservation area if it would be seen from the street. Again, if the house is a listed building then listed building consent is required. Underground cable systems should be considered in conservation areas.
Advertisements
Advertisements in conservation areas should preserve and enhance the character of the area. Greater standards and controls will be applied to protect the character of the area when dealing with proposed advertisements.
Contact us
Design and conservation team
Tel: 020 7525 5448
Fax: 020 7525 5432
designconservation@southwark.gov.uk
Chiltern
Portland Street
London
SE17 2ES
Opening hours: 9am to 5pm |