Understanding Planning Regulations in Conservation Areas

If you own a property in one of Mendip’s conservation areas or plan to make changes to such a home, you need to understand that standard renovation rules often do not apply. Conservation areas are protected for their special architectural or historic interest, and the planning system treats them with extra care. This means you may need permission for changes that would normally be allowed without it elsewhere.

This post explains what it means to live in a Conservation area under Somerset Council’s Mendip Local Plan and the UK Government’s National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). Knowing these rules will help you plan your home improvements wisely and avoid costly mistakes.

What Is a Conservation Area?

A conservation area is a place recognized for its special architectural or historic interest. The goal is to preserve or enhance the character and appearance of the whole area, not just individual buildings. This includes streets, open spaces, walls, rooflines, and trees that give the area its unique identity.

When an area is designated as a conservation area, extra planning controls apply. This means you often need permission for changes that might otherwise be allowed without it, such as certain extensions, demolitions, or alterations to the exterior of your home.

Mendip Local Plan and Its Role in Conservation Areas

The Mendip Local Plan guides development across the district, including conservation areas. While it does not have a single policy dedicated solely to conservation areas, several policies focus on protecting heritage and local character.

Heritage and Character-Led Design

• Policy DP3: Heritage Conservation

This policy requires that new development or alterations preserve and, where possible, enhance heritage assets and their settings. For homeowners, this means your plans should respect the materials, scale, form, and rhythm that define your conservation area. For example, if your street features traditional stone walls and slate roofs, your renovation should use similar materials to maintain the area's character.

• Policy DP1: Local Identity and Distinctiveness

This policy reinforces that all development should respect the character and quality of Mendip’s built and natural environment. It encourages designs that fit well with the local style and landscape.

These policies reflect Mendip’s long-term commitment to protecting its valued heritage and landscapes.

National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and Conservation Areas

The NPPF sets out the UK Government’s planning policies, including how local authorities should protect heritage assets like conservation areas.

Key Points from the NPPF

• Conservation Areas Are Heritage Assets

The NPPF defines conservation areas as heritage assets, meaning they have significance that should be conserved.

• Preserving or Enhancing Character

When considering planning applications, local authorities must ensure that changes preserve or enhance the character or appearance of conservation areas.

• Balancing Development and Conservation

The NPPF supports sustainable development but requires that it does not harm heritage assets. If harm is unavoidable, it must be justified by public benefits.

For homeowners, this means your proposals will be carefully reviewed to ensure they do not harm the special qualities of your conservation area.

What Changes Typically Require Permission in Mendip Conservation Areas?

In conservation areas, some works that usually do not require planning permission elsewhere will need it. These include:

• Demolition of Buildings or Walls

Even partial demolition often requires permission to protect the area’s character.

• Extensions and Alterations

Larger extensions or changes to the exterior, especially those visible from the street, usually need approval.

• Roof Changes

Altering roof shape, materials, or adding dormer windows often requires permission.

• Replacement Windows and Doors

Changing original windows or doors, especially if they are historic or distinctive, may need consent.

• Tree Work

Trees in conservation areas are protected. You must notify the council before cutting down, topping, or pruning most trees.

Practical Tips for Homeowners Planning Changes

1. Check if Your Property Is in a Conservation Area

   You can find this information on the Somerset Council website or by contacting the planning department.

   
   

2. Consult the Mendip Local Plan and NPPF

   Familiarize yourself with the relevant policies to understand what is expected.

   
   

3. Seek Pre-Application Advice

   Mendip District Council offers advice before you submit a formal application. This can save time and money.

   
   

4. Use Appropriate Materials and Designs

   Match existing materials like stone, brick, or timber. Avoid modern styles that clash with the area’s character.

   
   

5. Consider the Impact on Neighbours and the Street Scene

   Your changes should fit well with the surrounding buildings and spaces.

   
   

6. Prepare Detailed Plans

   Include photos, drawings, and explanations of how your proposal respects the conservation area.

   
   

Image of a cottage in a conservation area.

Examples of Successful Home Changes in Mendip Conservation Areas

• Replacing Windows with Timber Sash Windows

A homeowner replaced old uPVC windows with timber sash windows matching the original style. This improved the building’s appearance and complied with conservation policies.

• Adding a Small Rear Extension Using Local Stone

An extension was built at the back of a house using local Mendip stone and slate roofing. The design respected the scale and materials of the original building, gaining council approval.

• Restoring Original Doors and Features

Instead of replacing original doors, some homeowners restored them, preserving historic character and avoiding planning complications.

What Happens If You Don’t Follow Conservation Area Rules?

Failing to get the necessary permissions can lead to enforcement action by the council. This may include:

• Orders to reverse unauthorized changes

• Fines or legal action

• Difficulty selling the property in the future

  
  

It is always better to check first and get the right permissions.

Summary

Owning or renovating a property in a conservation area means respecting the special character that makes these places unique. The Mendip Local Plan and the National Planning Policy Framework provide clear guidance to protect heritage assets while allowing sensitive development.