Conservation areas

Conservation areas are places with special historic or architectural character that we want to protect and look after. If you live in, own or plan to work in one of these areas, there may be extra planning controls to help make sure changes respect the area’s appearance and history.

This page explains what conservation areas are, why they matter, and where to find maps and guidance.

What is a conservation area?

A conservation area is an area that has been given protected status because of its special architectural or historic interest. Designation helps protect and improve the character of these places.

There are 30 conservation areas in South Lanarkshire.

You can view maps of each area to check whether a property or site is included.

What a conservation area means for you

Alterations to buildings in conservation areas may need planning permission for work that would not normally need it elsewhere, such as:

• alterations to windows or doors
• demolition of buildings or boundary walls
• changes that affect the look or character of the area

Applications should usually be made in full, not in principle. This allows us to fully assess the design, scale and impact of the proposal. All work must preserve or enhance the area’s special appearance.

You should also check whether you need a building warrant for any construction or demolition work.

Trees in conservation areas

If you want to prune, lop or fell a tree, you must notify us first. There is no charge. We recommend applying online via ePlanning Scotland, which is quicker and easier to use. Paper applications are also accepted

Conservation area appraisals

We have prepared conservation area appraisals for:

• New Lanark and Falls of Clyde
• Rutherglen Conservation Area

For Strathaven Conservation Area, we have produced a Conservation Area Appraisal, a Management Plan and a Design Guide.

These documents explain what makes each area special and how to manage change carefully.

New Lanark Conservation Area is also part of a World Heritage Site.

Guidance

The Historic Environment Policy for Scotland (HEPS) sets out how historic places should be protected and managed.

Further advice can be found in the Managing Change guidance series.