Conservation Areas

There are 38 designated Conservation Areas in the Borough. They are areas of special architectural or historic interest. They include most of the traditional village and town centres in the Borough as well as some Victorian and Edwardian and 1920s residential suburbs in Loughborough.

Conservation area designation does not prevent change but is intended to help preserve and enhance the character and appearance of the area.

The main implications of designation are:

• Stricter limitation on the extent of development that can be carried out without permission under permitted development. There is a smaller limit on extensions and greater control over garden buildings and structures;
• Demolition is controlled with a requirement to obtain Conservation Area Consent;
• Trees are protected.

In addition to these limitations there is an expectation of a higher standard of design in Conservation Areas. Residents and businesses are encouraged to maintain and restore their buildings in keeping with the character of the area.

There is useful information for householders on the Planning Portal and you may find the Self Assessment Form useful before completing an application form for Conservation Area Consent.

To help the process of managing change in the conservation areas the Council is carrying out a programme of writing a character appraisal of each area. The appraisals consider the historical development of the areas, their setting in the landscape, their plan and streetscape. The appraisals go on to consider the buildings themselves, the traditional building materials which are found in the area and the architectural details. The appraisals include an assessment of the contribution of trees, green spaces and biodiversity. In carrying out the appraisal there is an opportunity to note negative aspects and areas which could be enhanced. A management plan based on the appraisal is then included either as a separate document or within the same document,

Before publication and approval by Cabinet the appraisals and management plans are shared with the local community at a public meeting.

A small part of Markfield Conservation Area, lies within Charnwood. For information please contact Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council