Watford Borough Council

They may vary in character, form and size from a small group of buildings to a major part of a town, but their designation means that they are all worthy of protection as areas of special merit. They usually contain buildings which are 'listed' but this is not a prerequisite of designation.

The legislation relating to conservation areas is set out in the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990, and government advice is contained within another important document, Planning Policy Guidance: Planning and the Historic Environment, more commonly referred to as PPG15.

Conservation areas in Watford

Watford Borough Council has already designated eight Conservation Areas in the district and additions to this number will be considered periodically.  They vary from the urban centre of Watford to semi-rural locations like Grove Mill.

Each of these areas is unique with its own 'sense of place,' providing a variety of open spaces, buildings, trees, and water features which give the area its special character. Policies which seek the protection and enhancement of these conservation areas are included within the Watford District Plan, adopted in 2003.  These policies follow the Government's advice contained within PPG15 and seek to ensure that new development is in accord with the special character of the conservation area concerned. 

When considering new development in conservation areas, the Council will therefore expect applicants to submit detailed plans and elevations, they may also be asked to provide additional information to show the likely impact of their proposals on the surrounding areas.

Below we have some useful links showing map of the conservation areas in Watford, conservation area guide and also information on the eight conservation areas in Watford.