Replacing your windows in a conservation area? Choose timber look windows!

Due to the extra planning restrictions in conservation areas, replacing your windows can be a difficult process. However, not when choosing our Residence 9 timber look windows, as we discuss in this blog.

What is a conservation area?

Set up for the purpose of protecting historical and architectural elements in a particular place, conservation areas are mostly designated by local councils who act as the local planning authority. There are over 10,000 in England, with 137 in the West Midlands alone. To find out if you live in a conservation area, contact your local planning authority.

As they are set up for the purposes of protecting special characteristics, it is common for there to be restrictions on the alterations that can be made to a property. This can include replacement windows. However, there are other areas in the UK, known as designated land, with similar limits in place:

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) are areas of countryside that have been designated for conservation because they have significant landscape value. Like conservation areas, they are designated to protect certain characteristics, which often leads to planning restrictions.

Other types of designated land:

• National Parks
• The Broads
• World Heritage Sites

Listed buildings

Listed buildings have been marked for special architectural and historical interest for the purpose of protecting the building for future generations. So, when a building becomes listed, it comes under the consideration of the planning system. When making alterations to a listed building that might affect its special interest, you will need what is known as ‘listed building consent’.

Why Residence 9 timber effect windows are perfect for conservation areas and other areas with planning restrictions in place

First and foremost, their design is strictly informed on 19th-century timber window designs. For this reason, Residence 9 wood effect windows are regularly approved for use in conservation areas and other locations where planning restrictions are present. However, there are numerous other reasons why they make a great addition to the home:

• Stunning flush exterior with traditional windowsill detail.
• Authentic period customisation options such as monkey tail and pear drop handles and peg stays, Georgian bars, butt hinges, and weatherbars/mullion stiffeners.
• Able to achieve A++ ratings for energy-efficiency, resulting in a warmer, more comfortable home and lower energy bills.
• Our timber look windows are predominately glass bonded, which dramatically enhances their overall strength and contributes to a solid security performance.
• Available in 23 different colourways, including Cotswold Green, Clotted Cream and English Oak, so various aesthetics can be achieved.

Alternatively, we install real timber windows, which are another great option for areas with planning restrictions in place.

Choose Astoria Windows for window replacement in West Midlands’ conservation areas

Are you looking to replace the windows in a location where planning restrictions are in place? We at Astoria Windows will work with you to help you navigate the process of acquiring planning permission. For more information or a free quote, give us a call on 01902 773831 or contact us online.