What is a conservation area?

What is a conservation area?

Conservation Areas are designated for their ‘special architectural and historic interest’. Within conservation areas there are certain additional planning controls to protect and enhance this special character and appearance. 

Within conservation areas, we identify buildings and structures of interest, as well as other elements including street patterns, street furniture, and open spaces which contribute to what makes an area special.

When dealing with an application within or adjacent to a conservation area, local authorities must consider the area’s special character when deciding whether to grant planning permission.

You can find more information on how the conservation areas are designated and managed here.

Find out more about other conservation areas in Westminster here: Conservation areas | Westminster City Council.

Covent Garden Conservation Area

Covent Garden is one of Westminster best known and most treasured conservation areas.

It was first designated in 1971 following a battle to save the area from planned comprehensive redevelopment. Its buildings and public  spaces are of outstanding architectural and historic significance.

At its heart is the Piazza – the first modern square in London, laid out in early 17th century by Inigo Jones, and now dominated by the later market building in the centre. 

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Across the area, the townscape shows its evolution with a rich mix of architectural styles and building types, including a high concentration of listed buildings. You can search Historic England website to see all the listed buildings in Covent Garden.

The area has long been a centre for entertainment and today it has a vibrant character,  with a concentration of historic theatres and cultural venues, restaurants and shops. To the fringes it has a quieter character with pockets of 18th and 19th century housing. 

Below is a map of Covent Garden Conservation Area.