Conservation Areas

What is a Conservation Area?

A conservation area is defined as an area of special architectural or historic interest and it is the character or appearance of these areas that we find desirable to preserve or enhance. Each local authority is required to determine which parts of its area are of special architectural or historic interest and merit conservation area status. The designation of a conservation area is a means to safeguard and enhance the sense of place, character and appearance of Aberdeenshire's most valued historic places.

In a Conservation Area it is the whole area, made up of the buildings and the spaces in between them that is of importance. Trees, historic street patterns, open spaces, designed gardens and landscapes are all important components that combine to create an area of special architectural or historic interest. Aberdeenshire Council has a statutory duty to identify and designate such areas.

Planning Control Within Conservation Areas

It is the special character of the conservation area that the planning authority seeks to preserve and enhance. Care will therefore be taken to ensure that any new development within a conservation area is appropriate and contributes positively to the character and appearance of the area. Care should therefore be taken to ensure that new development is appropriate and contributes in a positive manner to the integrity of the conservation area. Where a development would, in the opinion of the planning authority affect the character and appearance of the conservation area, the application for planning permission will be advertised in the local press providing an opportunity for the public to comment. Views expressed are taken into account by the planning authority when making a decision on the application.