Do I need planning permission in a conservation area?
Permitted development – development that does not need planning permission
Permitted development rights allow development to be carried out without the need for planning permission. They exist to exclude relatively minor development proposals from planning controls.
Most permitted development rights remain in conservation areas (sometimes known as “article 2(3) land”). Development that is classed as permitted development is described in the General Permitted Development Order 2015 (as amended). Some additional restrictions do exist in conservation areas and they are set out in the above Order under article 2(3) land.
Article 4 Directions
Article 4 Directions give local authorities powers to remove permitted development rights as above. There are seven areas in North Tyneside affected by Article 4 Directions. Five of these are within conservation areas; these are:
- Sacred Heart
- Preston Park
- New Quay
- Spanish Battery
- Tynemouth Village
Further details of Article 4 Directions
In these cases, it is likely that planning permission will be required for external development to properties.
Do I need planning permission?
Property owners wishing to undertake development in a conservation area are directed towards the General Permitted Development Order 2015 and the information on Article 4 Directions above to understand whether or not planning permission would be required. The Planning Portal is also a useful resource.
The Local Planning Authority do not offer free advice on whether planning permission is required or not. Property owners can, after having considered the information above, submit a formal application for a Lawful Development Certificate. This is a statutory decision by the Local Planning Authority and will provide a legal determination as to whether or not planning permission is required.
Guidance on development in conservation areas
Whether planning permission is required or not, we urge property owners in conservation areas to carry out work that would preserve or enhance character and appearance.
Character appraisals and, in some cases, management strategies exist that set out conservation area’s special character and appearance.