As part of Strategy 2028, we aim to lead and champion sustainable conservation of Letchworth’s architectural heritage. We seek ways to inform and help residents improve the energy efficiency and sustainability of homes of heritage significance while preserving the distinctive character of the world’s first Garden City. By protecting our historic housing stock and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, we can respond positively to the challenges of climate change and ensure homes remain fit for the future.
Our focus is on providing practical, proactive advice on retrofitting and building maintenance, helping residents make informed decisions about measures such as solar panels, air source heat pumps, EV charging, and insulation, while safeguarding the heritage and appearance that make the Garden City unique.
Latest Updates
Solar Panels on properties within Letchworth Garden City
In March, we held a Governors’ workshop, following research on the Character Areas and other Section 19 towns' (towns with a Scheme of Management) approach to Solar Panels.
It helped the Governors understand the issues surrounding any decision-making on this subject matter.
New and improved case management system
A new case management system was launched with an integrated portal for homeowners to submit their applications for external works to their properties.
The system aims to simplify the application process for homeowners and deliver an enhanced customer experience.
You can check out the portal here.
Honouring our Heritage: Audience Consultation
Through January’s exhibition, The Art of Building a Home, we were able to connect and engage with Broadway Gallery’s audiences.
The exhibition created a valuable opportunity for audiences to explore Letchworth’s character area design principles and to share perspectives on the stewardship of the town. Here’s what some of our visitors had to say:
“It is keeping with the true top principles of the unique history and the true unique design for our first-class Letchworth Garden City.”
“We are very lucky that in addition to local authority planning controls, the LGCHF has a vital role in ensuring that, where possible, alterations to properties are in keeping with our Garden City. Overall design principles are vital to protect the overall environment in the Garden City.”
Our Role
Support & Outreach
We proactively support homeowners with free pre-application advice, and engage with residents through public consultations and community engagement to shape the future of Letchworth’s Design Principles.
Stewardship
Through the Scheme of Management, Leases and Design Principles, we ensure Letchworth remains true to its founding principles and its buildings maintain their special character.
Championing Sustainable Heritage
We help residents improve home energy efficiency and sustainability through practical retrofit and maintenance advice, supporting informed choices on solar panels, air source heat pumps, EV charging, and insulation, while protecting the Garden City’s unique heritage and character.
Strategic Lead: Claire Pudney
Claire Pudney, Head of Heritage & Stewardship"I lead the Foundation’s work on Strategic Aim 2, Sustainable Conservation. I also manage the Foundation’s Heritage and Stewardship Team which is responsible for householder applications that fall under the Scheme of Management or leases. Please contact me about anything to do with our work in Letchworth Garden City on historic buildings and homes within the Scheme area."
Internal Consultant: Kris Karslake
Kris Karslake, Sustainability Policy & Programme Manager"I have supported Sustainable Conservation by sourcing external funding to bring scientific evidence and practical advice into our approach to heritage. I continue to help the organisation’s approach to the tension that exists with Letchworth between protecting its character while responding to climate change."
