Conservation areas

There are 56 conservation areas in Westminster. They are designated by us for their special architectural and historic interest.

Within conservation areas, certain additional planning controls apply to protect their special character. You will need to apply for planning permission for demolition and for some alterations or extensions that don't need permission outside a conservation area. Some conservation areas in Westminster are affected by special controls (called 'Article 4 Directions')

Find out if you need planning permission

You must give us 6 weeks notice before any work is carried out to prune or fell a tree in a conservation area. 

Trees and high hedges

Find out if you are in a conservation area

The conservation area online map can be used to see what areas are affected.

Document

Conservation areas map PDF version PDF, 459.38 KB, 1 page

Conservation area guidance and audits

We prepare studies known as conservation area audits which provide a description of the special qualities, character and appearance of each conservation area. Audits are adopted either as Supplementary Planning Documents or Supplementary Planning Guidance.  You can read general advice on conservation areas below.

Document

Development and demolition in conservation areas PDF, 884.98 KB, 34 pages