Design in a conservation area begins with the character of the place: its streets, materials, rooflines and the pattern of its buildings.
The brief
Design in a conservation area begins with the character of the place: its streets, materials, rooflines and the pattern of its buildings.
Approach
Proposals are informed by the conservation area appraisal and by precedent on the street, so that new work preserves or enhances the character and appearance of the area.
Planning and regulation
Designation removes some permitted development rights, and Article 4 directions may remove further rights street by street. The rights that apply to each property are established at the initial consultation.
Delivery
The studio prepares the planning application and heritage statement, and manages dialogue with the conservation officer through to decision.
Fees
Fees are fixed for each stage and confirmed in writing once the scope is agreed. Construction cost depends on the site, the specification and the procurement route, and is established through an indicative cost plan at feasibility stage.
Common questions
How can conservation area status be confirmed? +
Council policy maps show every boundary and Article 4 direction. We run this check as part of the initial consultation.
Is extension still possible? +
Usually yes. Extensions are approved constantly. The bar is design quality, materials and townscape evidence.
What is an Article 4 direction? +
A direction removing specific permitted development rights — often on windows, doors, brickwork or front elevations. Every London conservation area address should be checked.
What if work has already been carried out without checking? +
Specific advice on the facts. Retrospective applications are often the pragmatic route. If refused, enforcement may follow. We advise without judgement.
Is conservation area consent required as well as planning permission? +
No. Conservation Area Consent as a separate regime was abolished in 2013. Everything goes through the planning application process.
What about trees? +
Every tree over 75mm trunk diameter is protected. Six weeks’ notice of any works must be given — failure is a criminal offence.
Are solar panels allowed? +
Sometimes. On principal or side elevations they usually need permission and Article 4 often restricts them further. On rear elevations the restrictions are lighter.
Does the conservation officer’s view matter? +
They are a statutory consultee on many applications and provide specialist advice to the planning officer. Their view carries significant weight on character-and-appearance. Pre-application engagement often makes the difference.
The first consultation includes the Article 4 check and an initial view on what would be achievable.