Hexham’s rich history and architectural charm are among the reasons it’s one of Northumberland’s most sought-after towns. But that heritage also means parts of the town are designated as conservation areas—bringing extra responsibilities for homeowners looking to renovate, extend, or build.
At Crawford Higgins, we work closely with clients navigating conservation rules and planning constraints in Hexham and across Northumberland. If your property falls within a conservation area, here’s what you need to know before starting any work.
1. What Is a Conservation Area?
A conservation area is a designated zone of special architectural or historic interest, where the local authority seeks to preserve or enhance the character and appearance of the area. In Hexham, this includes much of the town centre and surrounding streets, covering:
- Historic buildings
- Traditional shopfronts
- Boundary walls, trees, and public spaces
Living in a conservation area doesn’t stop you from making changes—it just means those changes must be handled more sensitively and often require planning permission.
2. What Projects Require Permission?
Even small alterations in a conservation area may need approval. Common examples include:
- Extensions or external alterations (rooflines, cladding, chimneys)
- Replacing windows or doors with non-traditional materials
- Demolishing part of a building or boundary wall
- Installing satellite dishes or solar panels
Some permitted development rights are restricted or removed entirely in conservation areas. Your architect will check the local planning authority’s guidance before any design work begins.
3. Design Matters More Than Ever
In conservation areas, planning decisions are heavily influenced by design quality and how well proposals respect the setting. That means:
- Using traditional materials like stone, slate, and timber
- Maintaining key proportions and roof forms
- Preserving original features where possible
- Ensuring new elements are subordinate and complementary
That doesn’t mean contemporary design is ruled out—but it must be done thoughtfully. At Crawford Higgins, we often combine modern living with heritage sensitivity to create elegant, policy-compliant proposals.
4. Planning Application Process in a Conservation Area
Planning applications in conservation areas typically require more documentation, including:
- Heritage statements – explaining the significance of the property and how the proposed changes respect it
- Design and access statements – outlining the approach and rationale behind the design
- High-quality drawings and sometimes specialist surveys (e.g. tree reports)
Early engagement with planning and conservation officers can help smooth the process. We often provide pre-application enquiries to test ideas before committing to a full application.
5. Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Planning refusals in conservation areas often come down to a few key issues:
- Poor-quality or inappropriate materials (e.g. uPVC windows)
- Overly dominant extensions
- Unsympathetic roof alterations
- Failure to preserve original features
Working with an architect experienced in conservation design helps avoid these mistakes and create proposals that stand up to scrutiny.
6. Can You Add Modern Features?
Yes, but they must be well-integrated. We’ve helped clients add:
- Contemporary glazed garden rooms
- Loft conversions with discreet dormers
- Energy-efficient upgrades like internal insulation or secondary glazing
The key is balance—modern features should enhance, not overpower, the heritage of the building or street.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if my home is in a conservation area?
Check with Northumberland County Council’s planning department or consult an architect. We can quickly confirm based on your address.
Q: Do I need Listed Building Consent too?
Only if your property is both in a conservation area and listed. Many buildings are one or the other. We’ll help determine what’s needed.
Q: How long does planning take?
Typically 8–10 weeks once submitted. Pre-application discussions can add 2–4 weeks but often improve your chances of approval.
Final Thoughts
Hexham’s conservation areas are a vital part of its charm—but they don’t mean progress is impossible. With careful design and expert guidance, it’s entirely possible to adapt and extend your home in a way that’s both beautiful and compliant.
At Crawford Higgins, we specialise in architectural projects that celebrate heritage while meeting the needs of modern living. If you’re planning a project in one of Hexham’s conservation areas, we’re here to help you navigate the process with confidence.
