Find a conservation area
You can view details of each conservation area in Westmorland and Furness, including:
- boundary maps
- character appraisals
- management plans
Find a conservation area mapping tool
If you are looking for a particular document and it is not listed, you can contact the conservation team:
Email: conservation2@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk
About conservation areas
Conservation areas are defined as:
“areas of special architectural or historic interest, the character or appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance.”
They may include areas with:
- a link to a local industry or individual
- a particular style of architecture
- a high quality public realm
- a concentration of listed buildings or historic features
Conservation areas are designated by the council under Section 69 of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990.
The council also has a duty under Section 71 of the same Act to prepare and publish proposals for the preservation and enhancement of conservation areas. This is usually done through character appraisals and management plans, in consultation with the public.
Before you start
You should check whether your proposal needs planning permission before starting any work.
Check if you need planning permission
What living in a conservation area means
Living in a conservation area does not prevent development, but it does mean:
- some types of work require planning permission
- permitted development rights may be more limited
- additional controls apply to trees and external changes
This helps ensure that development preserves or enhances the character of the area.
Works that may require permission
In conservation areas, planning permission is often required for works that affect the external appearance of a property.
This can include:
- replacing windows or doors
- altering roofs (for example tiles or chimneys)
- adding or removing external finishes such as render or cladding
- installing satellite dishes or external equipment
- building or altering walls, fences or gates
- creating or altering hardstanding, driveways or access
Even small external changes may require planning permission in conservation areas.
Trees in conservation areas
You must give notice before carrying out works to trees in a conservation area.
Find out guidance around trees
Article 4 Directions
Some conservation areas are subject to additional controls known as Article 4 Directions.
These remove certain permitted development rights, meaning planning permission is required for work that would not normally need it.
The Article 4 Directions in Westmorland and Furness are Article 4(2) Directions, which:
- apply to dwellinghouses
- apply to elevations which front a public highway
Article 4 Directions are implemented to ensure that the special character and appearance of a conservation area is not lost through incremental harmful changes.
This includes the loss of original features and detailing such as:
- traditional windows (for example timber sash windows)
- doors (such as timber panelled doors)
- chimneys
- boundary walls and other historic features
Find out more about Article 4 Directions
Other consents you may need
You may also need:
- permission for works to trees
- listed building consent (if the property is listed)
Further guidance
Planning permission depends on your property and the proposed installation.
You can:
- check permitted development guidance
- apply for a Lawful Development Certificate for formal confirmation
Get advice before you apply
If you are unsure about your proposal, you can: