Here’s what you need to know before making your application to alter your home.
The Design Principles
The Design Principles provide guidance on design requirements for the two character areas under which property falls (Heritage and Modern). Before making an application it's worth checking which one of the Character Area classifications your home falls under and familiarising yourself with the relevant Design Principles.
You can download our Character Area Design Principles on our Forms and Guides page.
Alterations include
Balconies, conservatories, extensions, flues/chimneys, frontage hardstandings, garages, loft conversions, outbuildings, porches, roof alterations, satellite dishes over 60cm in diameter and solor/PV panels, door replacements, frontage alterations (including hedges, fencing, gates), replacement windows, re-roofing and satellite dishes under 60cm in diameter.
Home of Special Interest
A list of Homes of Special Interest has been created and covers some of the earliest homes within Letchworth.
These homes are considered to be of significant historic and architectural merit and as such the Design Principles may be applied differently to ensure changes preserve their special character.
In every case, we always recommend that you contact the team when considering changes to your home. We can offer free advice from the very start, helping you to achieve the changes you desire, whilst maintaining the special character of the world’s first Garden City.
You can view a list of the Homes of Special Interest on page 38 of the Heritage Character Area Design Principles.
What if I have a home-based business?
Under the terms of your deeds, as either a freeholder or leaseholder, you may not be allowed to run a business from your home without our prior written consent.
We understand that working from home is an increasingly attractive option for everyone, however, in order to protect neighbours and safeguard the quality of the Garden City environment, we ask home working residents to seek permission by registering their home business activity.
If we agree that your business doesn’t adversely affect your neighbours or surroundings, we will issue you an annual licence.
Head to our Forms and Guides page to download our Working From Home Guidance and apply for a licence to use your home for business.