The Designation of the Lavendon Conservation
Area
Historical Background
On 31 October 1979 part of Lavendon was designated
as a Conservation Area by the then Borough
of Milton Keynes. The background to this
designation, together with those for some
23 other MK towns and villages, was set out
by the then MK planning authority in a document
entitled ‘Conservation Areas in the
Borough of Milton Keynes’ dated May
1981, brief extracts from which now follow.
“In order to protect the most attractive
parts of towns and villages in this country,
legislation has provided for the designation
of Conservation Areas.”
“Conservation Areas are given special
protection so that the places and characteristics
which are valued by our society may continue
to be enjoyed.”
“Designation of a Conservation Area
is not intended to prevent change or development,
but does require that these should result
in the preservation or enhancement of the
character of the area.”
“Once an area is designated the Planning
Authority must give special attention to
applications for development, be these new
buildings or alterations to existing buildings.”
Practical Effects
Trees – Anyone proposing to do work
on trees in a Conservation Area must give
notice of their intention to do so. The procedures
are similar to those which would apply if
a Tree Preservation Order was in place.
Demolition – Such work within the Area
is subject to similar controls as if the
building was Listed (whether or not it actually
was Listed).
Enhancement – There is a duty placed
upon the local authority to periodically
formulate and publish revised proposals for
the preservation and enhancement of its Conservation
Areas, and submit these to the public for
consultation.
