Changing windows in a conservation area

What condition are your windows in?

Good - Retain and repair your existing windows, as replacement would not be supported.

Unknown / Unclear - Undertake a window condition report to get further information. This should be completed by an appropriate professional, for example, an independent surveyor who is experienced in the field of historic building conservation, and not a company or individual who would be paid for their replacement.

Poor, but repairable - Retain and repair your existing windows, as replacement would not be supported.

Beyond repair - Principle of replacement acceptable, subject to the submission of a window condition survey/report completed by an appropriate professional (such as an independent surveyor who is experienced in the field of historic building conservation, and not a company or individual who would be paid for their replacement) which demonstrates that the windows are beyond repair, and subject to suitably detailed replacements. Refer to page 111 of the Heritage Supplementary Planning Document for examples of window details.

The principle of replacing your windows is likely to be considered acceptable, provided the proposed replacements preserve or enhance the character and appearance of the Conservation Area.

Replacement windows should, at a minimum, have an appearance which is no more harmful to the character and appearance of the Conservation Area than the windows they are replacing. Improvements will be encouraged.

If you are unsure whether your windows are historic, original, or contribute positively to the character and appearance of the Conservation Area, please email photographs of your existing windows to our Historic Environment Team who can advise.