The information on this page is presented in the format of frequently asked questions. Please click a question from the index below to see the appropriate answer.
What policies are used to control development?
The Local Plan for Slough contains one policy, Policy EN13 (Conservation Areas) which sets out how the character and appearance of conservation areas will be preserved and enhanced. The policy covers new development, alterations and extension to existing buildings, demolition, and changes of uses, as well as major development proposals outside the conservation area which could affect the setting of the conservation area or views into or out of the conservation area.
What does designation mean?
Conservation area designation brings some building work within planning control that would not normally be covered. Such works include demolition works, extensions, satellite and digital dishes, fencing, cladding of houses, advertisements, and trees. The purpose of controlling such works is to enable the local planning authority to consider the impact of such proposals on the area’s special character.
How are conservation areas chosen for designation?
Designation of a conservation area is a matter of judgement of the council, as local planning authority, guided by specialist conservation advice. The specialness of an area is of key importance for designation, and a number of criteria are assessed in order to determine an area’s character, including history, architectural types, materials, and open spaces.
Who designates conservation areas?
The council, as local planning authority, has the duty to designate as conservation areas any area of special architectural or historic interest, the character or appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance.
What does the council normally do in conservation areas?
The council as local planning authority considers the effect of development proposals on the special architectural and historical character of a conservation area. The council also carries out Conservation Area Character Surveys which identify elements which contribute to the area's special interest as well as it s character and appearance.
Opportunities to preserve or enhance the conservation area are identified and the appropriateness of the conservation area's boundaries are reviewed. These character surveys provide a sound basis for development control decision relating to proposals for development in or adjacent to conservation areas.
How can I find out about trees in conservation areas and tree protection orders?
Please call us for more information on 01753 477340 or email planning.policy@slough.gov.uk about whether a tree has a Tree Preservation Order (TPO), or if you want to carry out works on a tree in a Conservation Area.
As a guide, in Conservation areas you need to notify the council of your intent to carry out works to trees that have a trunk diameter of more than 75mm when measured at 1.5m from ground level (or more than 100mm if reducing the number of trees to benefit the growth of other trees).
The Local Planning Authority (LPA) then has 6 weeks within which they can object to your proposals. This gives the LPA the opportunity to protect trees of amenity value, which may be harmed by the proposed works. A site visit is usually carried out. The LPA can only object formally by making a Tree Preservation Order on the tree(s) concerned.
In many cases, where the LPA feel that the works are inappropriate, they may discuss alternative work with you. If you do not receive a decision within 6 weeks of your notice then you can carry out the works you gave notice for, but no more.
If a TPO is made this will prevent you doing the work without making an application for consent. You will have the right to object to the TPO and the LPA will provide details on how to do this.
Are there any extra restrictions in a conservation area?
The four main ways conservation area status affects a property are:
Where can I get further information about allotments?
Please contact the Allotments team on 01753 875574 or drop an email at Allotments@Slough.gov.uk.
For all enquiries please contact the Customer Service Centre
01753 475111
01753 875030
MyCouncil
Landmark Place
High Street, Slough
SL1 1JL, opposite
Slough Library
MyCouncil opening times.
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