Liverpool City Council - conservation areas

Main Content

 

Conservation areas

Conservation areas protect the parts of the city that have a special architectural or historic interest. They are a living document of the city's growth and development and are generally much-appreciated by residents and visitors alike. Many have active local civic societies that look to protect their special interest. There are currently 35 such areas in Liverpool.

Within these areas there are tighter controls over planning permission for new development as well as additional planning controls to protect an area's special interest. Applications for planning permission for new development in conservation areas are more rigorously assessed to consider whether proposals preserve or enhance the special character or appearance of the conservation area. This legal duty is elaborated in the policy guidance contained in the council's Unitary Development Plan.

Within conservation areas additional planning powers also apply:-

  • Full or substantial demolition of buildings and most structures requires separate Conservation Area Consent from the Council. It is illegal to undertake demolition without consent.
  • Trees in conservation areas are protected. For trees not already protected  by a specific Tree Preservation Order (where separate rules apply), notice must be submitted to the Council for any works to a tree in a conservation area.
  • Minor works that normally occur as "permitted development" without the need for permission are likely to require planning permission from the Council. This covers most minor household structures and alterations affecting external appearance, including replacement windows for which the Council has issued separate guidance (see below).                    

Conservation areas often include individually listed buildings for which normal listed building controls apply to protect both the interior and exterior.

Documents below are available in PDF format for downloading You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view them.

Windows Advisory Leaflet
The Windows Advisory Leaflet (PDF [103.8Kb] opens in new window) explains the effect of the Planning Acts with regard to replacement windows in listed buildings and in conservation areas. It also details the information required by the Planning Service in order to fully assess any proposed works.

Guidelines for Streetworks in Conservation Areas
Highway works in conservation areas, although outside of planning control, can have a significant impact. The Guidelines for Streetworks in Conservation Areas (PDF [81.7Kb] opens in new window) leaflet has been produced jointly with the council's highway authority in order to promote the enhancement of conservation areas through better street design and maintenance. It sets out the council's standards for those undertaking highway works.