Follow link to read full document: https://crawley.gov.uk/planning/design-and-conservation/conservation-areas/forestfield-and-shrublands

Forestfield and Shrublands in Furnace Green were designated as a Conservation Area on the 15th October 1996. Although the two estates have a different appearance they were built at the same time by the architects Phippen Randall Parkes. The two estates therefore form part of the same Conservation Area.

Conservation Areas are designated because they are areas of special architectural or historic interest which it is desirable to preserve or enhance. The designation of Conservation Areas are based on a number of factors and does not solely relate to the age of the buildings. Architectural interest is also an important factor. The Council is pledged to protect and enhance these areas. The general objectives for policy and proposals for this Conservation Area are:-

1. To ensure the proper upkeep of estates and maintenance of buildings and common areas in their original style and appearance.
2. To protect the areas distinctive layout and appearance.
3. To protect the woodland environment in which the estates are situated.
4. To promote environmental improvements within the Conservation Area consistent with its character.
5. To ensure that all alterations respect the character of the Conservation Area.

There are a number of implications resulting from designation as a Conservation Area. The 1988 Town and County Planning General Development Order provides for what is called permitted development. This means that in certain cases such as minor forms of development for example small house extensions, you do not have to apply for planning permission.

However in a Conservation Area permitted development rights are more restrictive and planning permission is required for certain types of development, which elsewhere are classified as permitted development.

Examples include

• Cladding,
• Dormer windows in roof slopes
• Erection of satellite dishes
• Installation of radio masts
• Extensions exceeding 50 cubic metres or percent (sic) of cubic capacity.

Other implications of Conservation Area designation include:-

• Six weeks notice needs to be given of work to trees.
• Demolition of all buildings needs planning permission.

It is recommended that residents should check with the planning office who will always be willing to give advice, whether or not permission will be needed. Where planning permission is necessary, approval will depend on whether the development respects the character or appearance of the area.

Even if permission is not required, the Borough Council will expect that development which does not need planning permission is carried out with sensitivity and respect for the setting.

It is important that extensions and minor changes are done in the same style as existing buildings respecting the original design proportions and using similar materials. Generally new materials should match the original colour but modern materials are acceptable where appropriate. The guidance in the following section suggests ways in which changes to buildings could be carried which are considered to be in keeping with the character and appearance of the Conservation Area.

Windows should follow the same pattern in terms of number and size as existing windows.
Window frames should be of a flush design.
White UPV is an acceptable material.

Use straight lines/glazing.
White UPVC is an acceptable material.
Bigger glass panes are more acceptable.
Georgian/Victorian style doors are not in keeping with the character of the area.
Pattern of the panelling of the long strip doors should be retained.

Extensions should have flat roofs.
Extensions should not fill in the small garden spaces.
Extensions should use the same materials as the originals.

Conservatories should have sloping roofs.
Conservatories should maintain lines of buildings.
Conservatories should have white UPVC supports.

Facia boards should be of tongue grooved timber, white stained or painted.
UPVC or powder coated metal is acceptable.

Fences should be of vertical white panels.
White UPVC can be used.

Over elaborate door and window furniture should be avoided.

Pattern and colour of paving slabs should be maintained.

Black open mesh satellite dishes are recommended.

The brick used in the Forestfield area is a mixture of buff, orange red and dark fired blues set in neutral soil mortar with recessed joints.
The parapets are in a brick soldier course.

The above information is taken from the the Crawley Borough Council website. If you would like more information on this conservation area, you can contact Forward Planning on:

Tel: 01293 438512
Email: forward.plans@crawley.gov.uk

or write to:

Forward Planning
Crawley Borough Council
Town Hall
The Boulevard
Crawley
West Sussex
RH10 1UZ