Introduction
Southend-on-Sea's designated conservation areas have special value for the community. They are visible links with our past and offer attractive contrasts to modern environments, and so it is important to ensure that when changes are necessary, they protect the special character of the area and bring about enhancements.
We have a duty to preserve and enhance the special historic character of conservation areas and this guidance note is intended to offer a quick reference guide to all aspects of development within conservation areas. It should be read in conjunction with the relevant planning policy and guidance documents, including the Design and Townscape Guide (SPD1) and Conservation Area Appraisals.
Consents
It is important that proposed alterations to properties in conservation areas are sympathetic to their character, and stricter design controls therefore apply. You may need one or more of the following types of permission from us before undertaking work to your property:
- planning permission for development that materially affects the appearance or use of buildings or land including demolition works. Permitted development rights for some minor forms of development to houses may have been withdrawn through an Article 4 Direction
- listed building consent for external and internal works which affect the character of a listed building
- consent to display an advertisement
- building regulations approval for structural work to buildings to ensure health and safety standards are met
Consent for works to trees
Works to trees in conservation areas all trees located within conservation areas are protected given the contribution they are often considered to make to the character and appearance of the area. Accordingly, 6 weeks notice must be given to the Council, as local planning authority, of any proposed works to trees (including pruning, lopping and felling) using the relevant planning application form. During this time the Council will assess the application on its merits and determine whether the works are acceptable or whether the tree warrants a greater level of protection by means of a Tree Preservation Order (TPO).
Works to tree(s) protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) a TPO is made by the Council to protect trees which are considered to make a significant contribution to their local surroundings and in general make it an offence to cut down, top, lop, uproot, wilfully damage or wilfully destroy a tree without permission. If a tree is protected by a TPO, an application will therefore need to be made to the Council before any works are carried out. For further information or to check whether a tree is protected visit our tree preservation page.