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Hackney Council Designates Three New Conservation Areas

Anyone looking for properties for sale in Hackney will be keen to enjoy the best the borough has to offer, and those wishing to live in the most attractive locations in the area may be delighted by the latest news from the council.

Hackney Council has sought to maintain three historic streets by conferring conservation area status on them, ensuring they are protected from any unattractive developments and their character is maintained.  

These new designated areas will be in Beck Road, Pitfield Street and Well Street. All three were approved after an extensive public consultation and formally approved at the July 19th meeting of the council’s cabinet.

Among the protections afforded by this new status is the preservation of key architectural features, such as the original windows, doors and chimney stacks. These locations are known for their Victorian architecture, with Pitfield Street also featuring Georgian buildings.

In addition, the council is now seeking an article 4 direction over the Beck Road and Well Street conservation areas, which would have the effect of removing certain permitted development rights so that planning permission would be required for any proposed changes to buildings in these vicinities.

While that may not be so attractive to anyone wanting to make significant changes to a property, it could appeal strongly to anyone wanting to live in a street with a lot of attractive architecture, in the knowledge that it will now be maintained that way.

Cabinet member for Housing Regeneration, Planning, Culture and Inclusive Economy Cllr Guy Nicholson said: “It is important that we recognise and celebrate through the planning process Hackney’s heritage and the positive contribution that good architecture can make to a neighbourhood.”

The first conservation areas in Hackney were designated in 1969 and there are now 35 across the borough.

People moving to Hackney with an interest in the local architecture may note there are over 1,300 listed buildings in the borough. Grade II* listed buildings include the Hackney Empire, Hoxton Hall, Sutton House and a plethora of historic churches.