Conservation areas

There are 10 conservation areas in Harlow, which we have protected for their special architectural or historic interest.  

Character appraisals and management plans

Conservation area character appraisals help both the council and our residents understand the history of an area and why it is special. They help shape future developments and planning policies, as well as giving residents an idea of what enhancements could be made.

Conservation area management plans help identify issues affecting the area and how they can be managed. They look at opportunities to manage and enhance the area’s character and review boundaries.

Planning permission in conservation areas

If you apply for planning permission, you should bear in mind that we will need to make sure that any development does not harm the special character of the area.

You need to get conservation area consent from us before demolishing any building or part of a building in a conservation area.

Article 4 directions are in place in some areas. These mean you will need to apply for planning permission before carrying out certain types of changes which would normally be covered by permitted development rights. You can find information on our Article 4 directions page.

If you want to carry out works to a tree in a conservation area, you need to notify us 6 weeks before you plan to start work.