The concept of conservation areas was introduced in England, Wales and Scotland by the Civic Amenities Act 1967.
Conservation area designation essentially controls the demolition of unlisted buildings over a certain size and works to protect trees, restricts permitted development rights on dwelling houses and tightens regulations on advertising. It also places a statutory duty on local planning authorities to pay special attention to preserving or enhancing the character or appearance of conservation areas while undertaking their planning duties.
Designating a conservation area should not be seen as an end in itself: we live in a changing world and for the historic environment to survive and continue to be cherished it needs to be positively managed. Our Berkhamsted Conservation Area Matters – be a Civic Watchman as part of the Berkhamsted Citizens – help protect our heritage.