Conservation areas

Conservation areas exist to manage and protect the special architectural and historic interest of a place - in other words, the features that make it unique.

Things that make up the character of a conservation area:

• the historic layout of property boundaries and roads   
• views along streets and between buildings
• characteristic materials
• details of buildings
• walls, railings and hedges
• trees and open spaces

View Historic England's guidance on conservation areas

Conservation areas in Rutland

There are 34 conservation areas in Rutland. 

View a list of Rutland villages with a designated conservation area and Article 4 Direction

Conservation area appraisals

Appraisals show why conservation areas have been designated and how their special character will be preserved and enhanced. We take them into account when we consider planning applications.

They include information about:

• boundaries
• open spaces and trees
• buildings of local importance
• highways

We have carried out appraisals on conservation areas in:

• Ashwell
• Empingham
• Lyddington
• Morcott
• Whitwell
• Ketton

The Ketton appraisal 2020 review also includes:

• Ketton Conservation Area Map
• Geeston Conservation Area Map
• Key Views Index
• Ketton Character Areas

New developments

Conservation areas do not preserve unchanged things, but should prevent harm from new works.

New work should blend well with its surroundings. Care should be given to:

• height and scale 
• design and layout.
• road, footpath and open space boundaries
• local architectural details
• materials
• landscape

Before you apply for planning permission, it's a good idea to have a discussion with a planning officer are recommended. Often a full application (rather than an outline application) will be needed - as it's the details that are important.

Planning permission

You can make some changes to your property without having to make a planning application.  These are called permitted development rights. However, in conservation areas these rights are less. Works such as extensions, changes to the roof shape, cladding of walls, buildings in your garden and satellite dishes might need permission.

Article 4 Directions

We have put more controls in place in some villages. These are called Article 4 Directions. You can also view Article 4 Directions areas on our interactive map.

The Direction can cover alterations to:

• roofs (including chimneys and materials)
• front walls (including porches, extensions, windows and doors)
• front gardens (including parking spaces, walls, gates and fences)

You'll need a planning application for these works.

Demolition

There are controls over demolition in conservation areas. A planning application will normally be needed. Demolition of a building or part of a building may be refused unless it is beyond repair, or where its removal or replacement would enhance the conservation area.

Repairs to buildings

Repairs do not normally need permission, as long as the materials used are like for like.

For more information

If you have any questions, email planning@rutland.gov.uk.