Conservation
Government guidance advises local authorities to identify areas, spaces and buildings of special quality or character, and to promote policies for the conservation of these areas.
Conservation areas are defined as areas of special architectural or historic interest, the character of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance.
Within Barnet 18 conservation areas have been designated.
We are required by the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990, to keep under review existing conservation areas within the borough and to consider whether there are any further areas of special architectural or historic interest.
Where such an area is identified and it is considered appropriate to preserve or enhance its character or appearance, the council has the duty to designate it as a conservation area.
Preservation and enhancement of Conservation Areas
The council pays special attention to the desirability of preserving or enhancing the character or appearance of its conservation areas when using any of its planning powers. The council, therefore, carefully examines all development proposals affecting conservation areas and poor quality designs will not be acceptable.
For example, designs that aim to imitate a prevailing architectural style without taking into account the appropriate scales, proportioning, detailing, settings and other design criteria that help to create that style, will not normally be appropriate. In some cases high quality original designs may be more successful.
The Council will consider the use of powers of enforcement and prosecution when unauthorised works are carried out and will explore ways of ensuring that repairs or remedial works are undertaken where needed.
For more information contact the Urban Design and Conservation Team (see details in the bottom left of this page).
If you wish to know if you live in a conservation area:
- Tel: 020 8359 3000
- Email: first.contact@barnet.gov.uk
Alternatively, please visit the Maps Section
