Conservation Area (Character) Appraisals (CAA)

These appraisals are the first step towards enhancing and conserving the character and appearance of a designated area, although the principles can be applied to any historic area regardless of its statutory status. Each area has a distinctive character that is a result of a combination of factors such as topography, historic development, streets, hedges, archaeological monuments, buildings and place names. Detailed research and fieldwork helps us to understand this character, how it has evolved over time, and how sensitive that character might be to change. This information can be a vital tool in the planning process; indeed Planning Policy Guidance Note 15 stresses the need for local planning authorities to define and record the special interest, character and appearance of all conservation areas in their districts.

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