Frequently Asked Questions
What is a conservation area?
A conservation area is an area of special architectural or historic interest, the character or appearance of which is worthy of being preserved or enhanced.
Its purpose is to manage change in a manner that ensures the character or appearance of the area is not harmed, but is either preserved or enhanced.
The Council has a statutory duty to ensure that any development proposals within the conservation satisfy this requirement.
Why is White House Way a conservation area?
White House Way was built in the 1960s and was designated a conservation area in 1999 due to its special architectural interest.
It has retained much of its original post-war character and integrity, alongside attractive green open spaces, mature trees, and a wildlife pond and brook.
Designating White House Way as a conservation area helps to ensure any changes preserve or enhance the area’s character or appearance.
Why are you reviewing the White House Way Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plan?
Under the provisions of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990, local planning authorities must draw up proposals for the preservation and enhancement of conservation areas and consult.
We have updated the document as part of a borough-wide review of conservation areas.
What changes have been made to the White House Way Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plan?
No changes have been made to the boundary or the Management Plan.
However, minor updates have been made to ensure that climate change adaptation measures such as air source heat pumps and solar panels do not detract from the street scene or architectural integrity of the area. You can read more about this on Section 8 of the document.
What impact does the Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plan have on making changes to properties in the area?
Changes that affect the significance of the conservation area will require the submission of a heritage statement that demonstrates how the proposals preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the conservation area, in accordance with the requirements of the National Planning Policy Framework.
The area is also subject to an Article 4 Direction which means that additional planning permission would be required for certain alterations such as changing exterior doors or windows, or painting exterior walls. You can read more about this on Section 8 of the document.