Planning Applications

The character of the Old Chiswick Conservation Area lies in its buildings, the variety of their design and the overall context within which they sit.  Amongst this historic collection, numerous developments have taken place over the past centuries and will continue to do so over the coming years.  One of the most important aims of OCPS is to preserve the unique character of the area for future generations and it is therefore important to scrutinise all applications to ensure that what is being proposed is suitably scaled to its surroundings and will contribute harmoniously to the future (see our Constitution), as well as offer advice to those seeking to carry out work themselves, prior to applying.
 
Some of the charm of the area comes from the fine details of the buildings, structures and landscape and the planning sub-committee are keen to see that any changes that are proposed, no matter how small, contribute to the enhancement of the conservation area.  It is totally understandable that as the years go by, buildings will be extended, refurbished and enhanced.  

All changes within the conservation area are required to apply for Conservation Area Consent from The London Borough of Hounslow as well as planning permission, and listed building consent if the building is listed.  The planning sub-committee are notified of all applications made within the conservation area, scrutinise the applications and discuss with other committee members before forwarding comments to the borough's planning officers.
 
In order to preserve the overall character of the area, there are instances where developments are proposed that fall outside the Old Chiswick Conservation Area but may have an impact on it.  The remit of OCPS is to ensure that such proposals are also commented on, and if necessary objected to, in order to preserve the unique character of Old Chiswick.
 

Planning Applications in Hounslow can be found at https://www.hounslow.gov.uk/info/20010/planning_and_building

The east end of Chiswick Mall past Cedar House is in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham. Planning Applications here can be found at https://www.lbhf.gov.uk/planning/planning-applications

At the OCPS AGM in 2015 Russell Harris the Chairman reported: "Last year, we reported on two cases, and said that they would be important. Basically, these two cases have established that, in the case of a proposed development in a Conservation Area, which causes any harm, then there is a presumption against development. The Court said that the words used in the 1947/48 legislation were deliberate. The Court of Appeal has now confirmed those decisions. It means that developers are being much more realistic in their proposals. It makes our jobs easier. Protection remains the key. The cases mean that we will be able more readily to protect our Conservation Area. OCPS is respected locally and our Borough listens to us".