Wondering how you go about gaining planning permission for conservation windows in Fife?
A wide range of properties can be affected by conservation regulations – owners of properties in historic town centres, quaint rural cottages and homes in model housing estates can all find themselves restricted by conservation legislation.
Before replacing windows in a conservation area, it’s important to liaise with the local Planning Authority and Building Control.
Read More: Sash and Case Window FAQs
Read More: Conservation Sash Windows Fife
Don’t do anything until you have advised them of ALL your plans.
If the local planning authority has enforced an Article 4 direction, a planning application may be required for each replacement window because it cannot be done under ‘permitted development’ in the usual way.
Be warned, it could take weeks (or months) before a decision is made about whether you can replace your windows.
Be patient and plan ahead.
But NEVER start work unless you have obtained any planning permission or building consent in writing.
If you do, the worst-case scenario could mean you’re asked to remove any work that’s been carried out and restore the property to its original state.
Should you need to make a planning application, this is straightforward and can be completed online. A reputable installer should be able to submit plans on your behalf, if required.
Planning for conservation windows Fife
Having gained years of experience working with local authorities and installing UPVC windows in conservation areas, this is a service we offer here at Windsor Bespoke.
In most cases, the local authority will approve plans to replace a window if the new one is more energy efficient and in keeping with the area’s character.
Can I fit uPVC windows in a conservation area?
Traditionally, timber sash windows are the preferred choice in conservation areas because of their unique character. They can also improve the value of a period property and make it more desirable.
But if you want to replace them with energy-efficient uPVC windows you are allowed to do so – as long as their appearance is not considerably different from the original design.
Some period property owners are, understandably, reluctant to replace timber windows with UPVC because they are scared of losing the character from their house. However, the unmistakable charm you could only previously get from wooden windows can now be achieved using impeccably-finished uPVC.
Featuring beautiful Georgian bars with finely-shaped profiles which are encapsulated into the window for a nice 3D appearance inside and out, they also boast nice original-looking globe claw handles, a deep bottom rail and a stylish shaped run-through sash horn. These tiny little details mean they’re undistinguishable from genuine timber. They’re also far more thermally efficient and won’t need to be painted every few years.
The fact they comply with Article 4 of the Permitted Development Rights act – which details the dimensions and how windows should look, rather than the type of material they must be made from – has seen them installed in conservation areas throughout the UK.
Although these conservation grade UPVC windows are respected by planning officials and very rarely rejected, we would always advise gaining approval from your local conservation authority before beginning any work.
Contact Windsor Bespoke
If you are looking to replace your sash and case windows however you live in a conservation area, we can assist with planning permission through our architect.
Alternatively, if you are looking to upgrade your windows from timber to uPVC, we can also assist with planning.
Call us today on 01592 805611.
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