Introduction
Many areas of special architectural or historic interest within the Borough have been designated as "Conservation Areas". There are currently 39 in total. We have a duty to seek to preserve or enhance the character of these areas, particularly when making decisions on applications for development.
The legislation contained in the Planning Acts does not seek to prevent development in Conservation Areas, but rather to make sure proposals do not detract from their important wider character. However it is recognised that even minor works of alteration that are not classified as "development" within the terms of the Planning Acts, can have an effect on the wider character if they result in the erosion or loss of features that contribute to a strong feeling of local identity. This identity can be the result of architectural detailing, materials and street layout.
A rolling programme of Conservation Area Character Appraisals is being undertaken. When undertaking these appraisals various considerations are taken into account, including the appropriateness of the existing planning controls. Where deemed appropriate the mechanism for tightening planning controls over changes that are likely to directly impact on public views - usually the front of the house facing the street, is termed an Article 4 (2) Direction. Such Directions have been confirmed covering:
- Waterden Road
- Charlotteville and Warren Road
- East Clandon
- St Catherine's
- Shere
- Town Centre
- Onslow Village
Further Directions will be considered at the same time as Conservation Character Appraisals are produced.
Once served the Direction takes immediate effect and lasts for up to six months pending a decision to confirm, modify or revoke taking into account any feedback received. When Article 4 (2) Directions are in place, additional controls apply, as set out below.
Existing planning controls on dwellings within all Conservation Areas (without Article 4 (2) Directions).
- Conservation area consent is required for the total or substantial demolition of buildings or structures.
- Six weeks written notice of the intention to carry out works to a tree (e.g lop, top, prune or fell) in conservation area must be provided. A form is available for this purpose.
- Extensions to dwelling houses are only exempt from the need for planning permission if they do not add more than 10% or 50 cubic metres (whichever the greater) to the volume of the original building.
- Planning permission is required for the cladding of any part of the exterior of a dwelling house with stone, artificial stone, timber, plastic or tiles.
- Planning permission is required for alterations to the roof of a dwelling house resulting in a material alteration to its shape, for example dormer windows.
- The construction, alteration and improvement of a building or enclosure greater than 10 cubic metres within the grounds of a dwelling are treated as though they are an enlargement of the dwelling house and may need planning permission.
- Planning permission is required to install a satellite dish on any elevation or roof which fronts a highway, at a point higher than the main ridge of roof or on a chimney.
Application forms for the above are available by visiting our planning application pages or from Planning Services reception on the second floor at Millmead House, Guildford.
Additional planning controls resulting from the Article 4 (2) Direction
Where the following works front onto a highway or open space, as a result of the Article 4 (2) Directions additional controls apply:
- The alteration, installation or replacement of doors and windows.
- Any alteration to a roof including roof coverings, rooflights and solar panels.
- Building a porch.
- Enlargement, improvement or alteration such as an extension, removal or changes to architectural features.
- The provision of a hard surface.
- The erection, construction, improvement or alteration (including demolition) of a fence, gate, wall or other means of enclosure.
- The installation, alteration or replacement of a satellite dish or antenna.
- Removing totally or partially walls, gates, fences or other means of enclosure.
- Exterior painting of previously unpainted surfaces or changes of external colour schemes, or covering walls by render or like finishes.
And the following whether or not it fronts a highway or open space:
- Removing or altering chimneys
Conservation Team
Planning Services
Guildford Borough Council
Millmead House
Millmead
Guildford
GU2 4BB
Tel: 01483 444664
Email: conservation@guildford.gov.uk
