Planning town and country

Conservation Area

What is a conservation area?
Conservation areas are “areas of special architectural or historic interest, the character or appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance” Planning (ListedBuildingsand Conservation Areas) Act 1990. Conservation areas often contain listed and other important buildings. Other significant features may include trees and hedges, walls, railings, lamp posts, steps, gates, shop-fronts, paths and streams, attractive ground surfaces and archaeological sites. Often these features are set within an historic street or settlement pattern and there may be important open spaces like village greens and gaps between buildings as well. Attractive views may unfold while approaching or moving around a conservation area.

Designating a conservation area
The designation of a conservation area reduces permitted development rights, and restricts work which involves demolition. Proposals within a conservation area have to preserve or enhance the character of that area.

The purpose of designating conservation areas is to help preserve and enhance the special character and appearance of those areas. “It is the quality and interest of areas rather than that of individual buildings, which should be the prime consideration in identifying conservation areas” Planning Policy Guidance Note 15: Planning and the Historic Environment.

Click here to view the maps of the Conservation Areas within the Borough of Bedford.

Conservation area consent
Conservation Area Consent is required for the demolition of most unlisted buildings and walls within a conservation area, and is not normally given for those which are considered to make a contribution to the character of the area. Consent is not required for the whole or part demolition of a building less than 115 cubic metres in volume. Six weeks written notice must be given of the intention to lop or fell a tree. Planning permission is also required for the exterior cladding of a building within a conservation area as well as for the alteration of roof shape, most small extensions and garden sheds, and in some cases the addition of satellite dishes. If you require more information about the requirement of planning permission in conservation areas please contact the Duty Officer on 01234 221798.

SERVICES A-Z

Planning Services
Tree Preservation Order
Nature Conservation Officer
Planning Applications