Flintshire County Council

Conservation areas

---

Conservation areas are areas of special architectural or historic interest.  The local planning authority has a statutory duty to designate them and to preserve and enhance their special character or appearance.  Permission may be needed before undertaking works to any property within a conservation area, further information is given below.

A number of features may make up the character of a conservation area, such as building materials, styles and features, a particular road layout or development pattern.  Archaeology, the local topography, trees, landscaping, the wider landscape, views and vistas are also important. 

Conservation areas in Flintshire

In Flintshire there are currently 32 conservation areas many of which were designated in the early 1970’s. They range from Edward I strongholds, such as Caerwys, estate villages, such as Llanasa and Hawarden, former industrial villages, such as Ffynnongroyw, to places with strong monastic associations, such as Holywell and Pantasaph. 9 conservation areas, including Cadole and Cilcain, also lie in the Clwydian Range Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), which straddles both Denbighshire and Flintshire.  Flintshire County Council work in partnership with Denbighshire County Council to protect the overall character of the area.

Centres of historic market towns (3)
Flint, Holywell, and Mold.

Parts of villages (18)
Cadole, Caergwrle, Caerwys, Cilcain, Ffynnongroyw, Gorsedd, Gwaenysgor, Gwespyr, Halkyn, Hawarden, Llanasa, Nannerch (2), Nercwys, Northop, Trelawnyd, Whitford, and Ysceifiog.

Smaller designations (11)
Gladlys, Glan yr Afon, Kinsale Hall, Leeswood Hall, Lygan y Wern, Oakenholt Hall, Pantasaph, Plas Bellin, Plas Onn, Talacre Abbey, and The Wern.

View a map showing conservation areas in Flintshire (PDF.doc 3.0Mb new window)

Alternatively use the Interactive Mapping facility to locate and view the boundaries of Flintshire’s conservation areas online.

The Conservation and Environment Section is currently undertaking a conservation area review based on guidelines issues by the Welsh Assembly Government, Cadw and English Heritage. This will involve assessing the current character and appearance, the conservation area boundary and creating management guidelines to preserve and enhance each area.

What can I do in a conservation area?

The purpose of a conservation area is to assist in retaining the character of an area. It doesn’t mean you cannot do anything, but extensions and alterations must be in keeping both with the building and the general area. Good design should be a priority for anyone wishing to alter their home.

Most homeowners have certain ‘permitted development’ rights, which means they do not have to apply for planning permission for certain works.  In conservation areas, some of these rights are removed and the information below is a guide to help you decide whether permission is needed for certain works.

Local Planning Guidance Note 7 – Conservation Areas

Please note: If you are planning works to a property you may also need listed building consent, planning permission, or approval under Building Regulations.

What is involved in a Conservation Area Consent application?

Application form & supporting information

When you are ready to make your application, you must complete the correct form. You can choose to submit your application online or download, print and post forms.   Before submitting your application, please refer to the checklist of Planning Application Requirements which apply to your chosen form.  Your application can be declared invalid if you do not submit the correct information.

You will need to demonstrate that:

• An assessment of the character of the building or feature has been carried out and it does not make a positive contribution to the character of an area.
• It is structurally unsound.
• That it would be uneconomic to repair.
• How you have tried to retain the building or feature.
• You will also be required to give full information in relation to what will be happening to the site after demolition.

Listed buildings in conservation areas

Many conservation areas are centred around listed buildings, which are protected under separate legislation. If you want to alter or extend a listed building, including any works to the curtilage buildings or walls, you need to apply for permission to undertake works under a process called listed building consent.

Are trees protected in conservation areas?

All trees except fruit trees are protected within conservation areas. You must give the Council 6 weeks notice in writing of your intention to undertake works to trees. An assessment will then be made by the Council on the nature of the works, and the visual, historic and amenity value of the trees.

Some trees may be additionally protected under a Tree Preservation Order. Permission is required from the Council before any work is undertaken to these trees.

Grant aid

There may be grant aid available for sensitive repair and restoration work.  Please contact the Council's Conservation Officer for further information.

Further information

If you require further advice or information please contact the Council's Conservation Officer in the Environment and Conservation section.  Telephone 01352 703215 or submit an enquiry online (will open an e-form)