Conservation area planning in Richmond upon Thames

Richmond upon Thames has 72 designated conservation areas, including Richmond Green, Kew Green, Hampton Wick, Twickenham Riverside, Barnes Village, Ham Common.

Any external alteration visible from a public space typically requires full planning permission inside a conservation area: roof additions, dormers, replacement windows, rendering, hardstanding, and demolition. Internal works generally do not, unless the property is also listed.

Yes — every application inside a conservation area requires a Heritage Statement. It must address the conservation area character appraisal, identify heritage assets, and explain how the design preserves or enhances character. We prepare this as part of every conservation-area application.

Rear mansards and dormers are routinely approved in many London conservation areas where the design matches the terrace's existing roofscape — particularly in Hackney, Islington, Tower Hamlets, Lambeth and Southwark. Front-facing dormers are almost universally refused.

Richmond Council statutory determination is 8 weeks for householder applications. Conservation officer consultation adds 2–3 weeks in practice. Expect 11–14 weeks from validation to decision.