Conservation Areas

Current consultations
Guisborough Conservation Area
Guisborough Conservation Area
What is a Conservation Area?

The definition of a Conservation Area is: 'an area of special architectural or historic interest, the character and appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance.' From: the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990

Conservation Areas are varied in character but they all contain buildings, structures or features of historic or architectural value, which combine to create a unique environment cherished by the local community.

They range from the largest: Saltburn - a Victorian planned seaside resort with impressive hotels and villas, the Valley Garden, Pier and Cliff Tramway to Moorsholm an ancient hilltop farming settlement that has gradually evolved and expanded over many centuries. There are 17 conservation areas in Redcar & Cleveland , two of which - Hutton and Staithes - are in the North York Moors National Park. The full list is given below.

Giving an area Conservation Area status helps us to safeguard its special character for future generations to appreciate.

Conservation Area Appraisals

The Council is undertaking appraisals of conservation areas, which may have changed over the years. If significant change has occurred or if additional areas of interest come to light, then conservation area boundaries may be altered. While the Council is ultimately responsible for reviewing conservation areas, decisions are only taken after extensive research and consultation with people living and owning property in them.

Planning Policies

We have a duty to preserve and enhance the character and appearance of each conservation area, under planning laws and the Councils own policies.

Our Conservation Policies are currently set out in the adopted Core Strategy and Development Policies Development Plan Documents (DPDs) of the Redcar & Cleveland Local Development Framework (LDF) together with saved policies of the adopted Local Plan. These are reinforced by advice from Central Government and direct advice by the Councils officers. Our aim is to preserve significant buildings, trees and open spaces in conservation areas and to ensure that any development maintains or improves the special character of those areas. The Council has powers under planning law, which can help us achieve this aim. They include powers to:
  • Control development
  • Control demolition
  • Protect trees
  • Control advertisements
  • Carry out urgent work necessary to preserve any important historic building that has fallen into serious disrepair.
Extra protection for conservation areas In many areas special "Article 4 Directions" have been introduced to give extra protection. This means that in these areas even minor alterations, for example constructing a porch, replacing windows or re-roofing could require planning permission.


Trafalgar Terrace, Redcar
Trafalgar Terrace, Redcar


Carrying out works to your property Before you start any work on your property, it is advisable to contact the Development Management Section to see if you need any type of permission. Even if you don't, we can advise you about appropriate design and construction methods and discuss with you the types of building materials that are in keeping with your property. Contacts: Development Management
Tel: 01287 612344
E-mail: planning_admin@redcar-cleveland.co.uk



Conservation Areas in Redcar & Cleveland
RECENTLY UPDATED
QUICK LINKS
Link to Emergency Planning information
Link to Partnership informationValid XHTML 1.0 Transitional