Residents of Churchgate Street, in Old Harlow, will now need council permission for certain types of work on their homes, which currently do not require planning approval.
This is part of a plan agreed at a Harlow cabinet meeting to preserve and enhance the character of Churchgate Street, following discussions with residents.
Churchgate Street is a conservation area of significant historic importance, with a diverse range of architecture and several nationally listed buildings dating back centuries.
The original conservation area was designated in 1969 and updated in 1984.
Following consultation with local residents, the area has been expanded to include Sheering Drive and the churchyard of St Mary’s Church.
The council will also introduce an Article 4 Direction for Churchgate Street.
This means planning permission will be required for work that would normally fall under permitted development rights, such as exterior cladding, altering external windows and doors, and constructing porches.
The Article 4 Direction aims to preserve the area’s historic character by limiting changes to buildings.
Alastair Gunn, councillor responsible for garden town and planning, said: “By taking these measures, we are ensuring the overall character of Churchgate Street, which contains many buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries and much earlier, is better protected and preserved.
“This is all part of the council delivering on its mission to renew our neighbourhoods.”
The council will hold a six-week consultation on the draft plan and the introduction of the Article 4 Direction, from March 6 to April 17.
As part of the consultation, relevant documents will be available on the council’s website, at the Civic Centre reception, and at the Central and Old Harlow libraries.
Two exhibitions for Churchgate residents will be held at St Mary’s Church on March 20, from 6.30pm to 8pm, and March 25, from 10am to 11.30am.
These have been organised in collaboration with the Churchgate Residents’ Association.
All residents and property owners will receive a letter about the consultation.
Subject to consultation responses and future cabinet approval, the Article 4 Direction will be confirmed 12 months after it was made, and the management plan and guidance document will be adopted.
