Conservation area regulations can have a major impact on how development proposals are dealt with in those designated areas.
Demolition
No building or part of a building can be demolished or removed without conservation area consent from the council. Repairs or alterations to buildings in conservation areas should not involve the removal of parts of the building such as chimney stacks, decorative mouldings, cast iron balconies and boundary walls without this consent.
Trees
No work may be carried out on trees in conservation areas, such as lopping or felling, without getting consent from the council.
Design
The council may require more detail within planning applications and will pay special attention to the size, materials, design and colours used within the proposal, to ensure that it is sympathetic to the character of the area. This not only includes new buildings but also extensions and new shopfronts.
Signs
Consent is required to display all illuminated advertisement and some non-illuminated advertisements depending on their size and positioning.
Minor Alterations
The following examples of minor alterations to houses in conservation areas would need consent from the council:
- addition of dormer windows
- cladding the exterior walls of a house
- the installation of satellite antennae depending on size and location
- the erection of extensions and other free standing buildings depending on their size and location.
Any alterations to buildings, other than single private houses, that affect their external appearance require planning permission from the council.
Publicity
The Council advertises planning applications which affect the character or appearance of the conservation area. Any comments received are taken into account when the Council makes its decision. The Eastbourne Borough Plan has further details of the Council's policy regarding conservation areas.
If you are unsure whether your intended development is within a conservation area you should contact:
Development Control
Eastbourne Borough Council
1 Grove Road
Eastbourne BN21 4TW
Tel: 01323 415210
Email: planning@eastbourne.gov.uk
